Video Capsule provides an easy and painless way to image the entire length of the gastrointestinal tract, from top to bottom.
Patients simply swallow the capsule with a sip of water.
Cameras at either end of the capsule will broadcast images to your doctor.
Miniature electronics and battery technology have been used to shrink a TV studio into the size of a capsule.
This disposable device is propelled through the digestive system by the body’s natural muscle contractions (peristalsis).
Images will be taken of the throat and stomach and of the colon, but also of the 5 metres of small bowel in between (inaccessible with an endoscope).
There is no need to push and pull tubes in and out of your mouth or bottom, as with traditional endoscopy.
Therefore there is no discomfort or risk of injury.
There is no need to be sedated at any time, and therefore there is no need for a recovery period or anyone to escort you home.
On its way through your system, the capsule transmits a signal to a reading device worn on a belt around your waist and the resulting video allows our Lab to identify and locate any areas of concern.
Patients may need to prepare their bowels for the test, as they would for a traditional colonoscopy.
Once complete, the unit will be able to advise on next steps. Uncommonly you may need a follow up endoscopy if there is a need to take a tissue sample (biopsy).