Capsule Endoscopy is a procedure used to examine the entire length of the small intestines (Colonoscopies can examine only a small portion).
More information: The patient swallows a small pill which includes a video capsule. The capsule passes easily throughout the digestive tract taking color pictures as it travels. During this time, the patient goes about their life activities just as they normally would (although, before the procedure, the patients fasts for 10 hours). Pictures are taken for eight hours.
The pictures are then downloaded from the data recorder attached to the patient into a workstation from which the doctor can review what happened during the procedure. The doctor can then pass along the results and recommendations to the patient.
The capsule is 11mm X 26mm and weighs 4 grams.
It takes about 57,000 images at two frames per second.
It is made by Given Imaging. To go to their website to read more,
click here.
Health Disclaimer: The information on this site is provided for information only and supplied “as is.” It is NOT intended to substitute for the services of a licensed health care provider in the diagnosis or treatment of Crohn’s Disease or any other disease, condition, or injury.
To go from "Definition of Capsule Endoscopy" back to the dictionary, click here.