3 steps to expect from capsule endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is one of the most gentle, discreet, and innovative ways for Triborough GI to accurately screen for the source of “hidden” bleeding, cancers, polyps, Crohn’s disease, celiac, and other conditions of the small bowel that may not have been detected with an upper endoscopy and colonoscopy. It involves swallowing a small, pill-sized capsule as directed by one of our seven Board-certified specialists in Brooklyn, Bushwick, Staten Island, or the Bronx. So, when looking for “trusted diagnostics near me in New York City” that also fit easily into your busy and active life, you have to come to the right place – and our specialty care team is happy to provide three more insights on what you can expect from this twist on traditional endoscopy techniques.

No. 1: Prepare

Preparing for capsule endoscopy or any test or procedure at our offices is unique to the patient. However, we generally ask that you provide us with a list of any medications and supplements you are taking, including over-the-counter NSAIDs like aspirin and ibuprofen, as well as vitamins. You should also tell us about any allergies that you may have. Depending on what you tell us, we ask that you hold off on taking certain medications or dosing, which may be adjusted before or on the day of your capsule endoscopy. It’s also important to tell us about any blood-clotting problems or previous swallowing and GI problems that may require special care and attention before your test. While you should not eat or drink for 10 hours before your procedure, you may be prescribed a special “bowel prep,” which should be taken as instructed. These steps support the most accurate test results and your safety and comfort.

No. 2: The day of your test

You should arrive at our office in relaxed clothing. You will have a special device that should fit comfortably around your waist. Then, you will take a pill that is similar in size to a standard large capsule (around one inch in length and a half-inch wide). After you swallow the pill, this capsule begins its journey through your digestive system. This is no ordinary capsule, though. It is a “video capsule.” Yes, this “pill” actually houses a tiny camera. So, as it works its way through your digestive tract, images will be sent to the tool that is worn around your waist. This tool, in turn, functions as a recording device to save what the camera sees.

No. 3: Aftercare

When the camera captures an image, the device around your waist blinks. Always check that the light is still blinking when you have a bowel movement. The test is complete once the light stops blinking and the video capsule has passed through your body during a bowel movement. You may not see the capsule at all when you go to the bathroom. This is perfectly fine, and the “pill” is safe for plumbing. It is a single-use tool that does not need to be retrieved or returned. You can eat a small snack four hours after swallowing the capsule and have a full meal eight hours afterward. We encourage you to stay active but avoid vigorous exercise or activities involving stooping or bending. You must return the recording tool/sensors to Triborough GI, usually around 12 hours after taking the capsule. From there, one of our specialists will download, review, and analyze the images recorded during your test. Within a few days, you should hear from us with the results of your capsule endoscopy.

When partnering with board-certified gastroenterologists, you benefit not only from considerable knowledge but also from experience. But you also have a full suite of state-of-the-art technologies to aid in the diagnosis that informs the most effective interventions to relieve your symptoms and treat your condition. Contact our Brooklyn, NY office at (718) 795-2734 to learn more. Or, if one of our three other NYC-area offices is more convenient for you, please call (718) 865-3960 (Bushwick), (718) 710-4906 (Staten Island), or (718) 360-1632 (Bronx) today.

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