Video Capsule Endoscopy & Interpretation
Video capsule endoscopy uses a small swallowable camera to obtain thousands of images as it passes through the digestive tract. It is particularly useful for examining areas of the small bowel that are difficult to reach with conventional gastroscopy and colonoscopy.
When might capsule endoscopy be used?
It may be considered for suspected small-bowel bleeding, iron-deficiency anaemia when appropriate initial investigations have not identified a source, suspected or established small-bowel Crohn’s disease, and selected other small-bowel disorders.
What happens?
After appropriate preparation, the capsule is swallowed and transmits images to a recording device as it travels through the gastrointestinal tract. The capsule is normally passed naturally.
Specialist interpretation
The recorded images require careful review and interpretation. Findings are considered alongside your history, blood tests, previous endoscopy and imaging to determine whether further investigation or treatment is required.