Small Intestine Examination by Swallowing a “Capsule Endoscope” (Capsule Endoscopy)
There are various diagnostic methods for gastrointestinal diseases depending on suitability, and the examination of the small intestine is no exception. It can be done using the innovative capsule camera (Capsule Endoscopy), also known as the “Capsule Endoscope.”
The capsule camera is shaped like a capsule pill. It is made of small and lightweight material, equipped with a lens and a light source for imaging, along with an image recorder. The capsule can be swallowed with water without chewing. It will pass through the gastrointestinal tract, capturing images inside and transmitting signals to record them. After the examination, doctors can conveniently and accurately use the data for diagnosis.
Examination by Swallowing a Capsule (Capsule Endoscopy)
Before swallowing the capsule, patients should consume liquid food and take laxatives as advised by the doctor, and fast from food and drinks for 8 hours before the test. During the examination, the doctor will have the patient swallow the capsule camera with water. While the capsule is being swallowed and examined, patients can carry out their daily activities except for bathing and exercising that causes sweating. Patients can eat after 4 hours of swallowing the capsule and drink water after 2 hours. After 12 hours of examination, the capsule will be expelled with the stool.
Capsule endoscopy is convenient and safe. It can reach the small intestine, which other types of endoscopes cannot access. There is no need for anesthesia, and patients can continue their daily life during the examination. The results are accurate.
Doctors will diagnose in cases where patients have the following indications
- No cause found after endoscopic examination
- Gastrointestinal bleeding suspected to originate from the small intestine
- Chronic diarrhea
- Polyps or tumors in the small intestine
- Chronic inflammation of the intestine
Those who cannot undergo capsule endoscopy
- Intestinal obstruction
- History of abdominal surgery
Dr. Sirinthip Sridemma
Head of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy and Liver Disease Center
Phyathai 3 Hospital
