Video capsule endoscopy

A video capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a small, capsule-sized device containing a camera. The capsule travels down the digestive tract capturing images continuously and transmitting them to a recorder worn on the waist. The procedure is complete when the capsule is expelled into the toilet during a bowel movement, or if eight hours have passed. The capsule is disposable and is flushed down the toilet. As with gastroscopy and endoscopy, the digestive tract needs to be clear, so fasting beforehand is required. Patients may also need to stop taking certain medications before the procedure.

This type of examination may be done when there is a need to view areas of the small bowel that are difficult to reach using an endoscope.