Capsule Endoscopy Specialist

What is a capsule endoscopy?

A capsule endoscopy is a pill-sized camera that gathers images of the middle section of your gastrointestinal tract. 

GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, is a state-of-the-art gastroenterology practice. The team offers many advanced diagnostic tests to find the root cause of your gastrointestinal symptoms, including the capsule endoscopy. 

Am I a candidate for a capsule endoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist at GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, determines if you’re a candidate for capsule endoscopy after an in-depth clinical exam. 

They may only recommend the advanced diagnostic test if they cannot find the root cause of your gastrointestinal symptoms after a physical exam, an upper endoscopy, or a colonoscopy.

Your gastroenterologist may also consider you a candidate for a capsule endoscopy if they suspect your symptoms may be due to a gastrointestinal condition that affects the small intestine, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, or cancer of the small intestine. 

How do I prepare for a capsule endoscopy?

Your gastroenterologist provides specific instructions on how to prepare for your capsule endoscopy. Preparation may include no eating or drinking for a set period prior to the start of your test. 

They may also advise you to modify your medication schedule. 

What happens during a capsule endoscopy?

Your capsule endoscopy starts with a visit to the office. Your gastroenterologist first attaches electrodes to your chest, which connect to a recorder you wear on your waist.

You then swallow the pill-sized camera and your gastroenterologist tests the equipment to make sure the information is being recorded. You then leave the office and go about your usual routine.

You can resume drinking about two hours after you swallow the capsule and eat a small snack about four hours after. 

What happens after a capsule endoscopy?

The capsule endoscopy travels through your gastrointestinal tract, taking thousands of pictures along the way. The entire test lasts about eight hours. The test ends when you expel the capsule from your body through your stool.

The day after your capsule endoscopy, you return to the office so your gastroenterologist can remove the recorder and review the data. They schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results with you.

GI Specialists of Houston, LLP, is a state-of-the-art practice that offers many innovative diagnostic tools to help get answers to your gastrointestinal symptoms. Call the office most convenient to you or book an appointment online today.