Capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive medical procedure that involves swallowing a small capsule equipped with a miniature video camera. The capsule, powered by a battery, can operate for approximately 8 hours. As it travels through the gastrointestinal tract, from the esophagus to the small intestine, it captures thousands of images that are transmitted to a receiver worn on the patient's body. After the procedure, a specialized computer software decodes the video and images, allowing the doctor to examine the findings in a specific manner for about an hour, aiming to identify any abnormalities in the digestive system.
The capsule endoscopy is naturally expelled from the body, and the patient may not always be aware when it has been eliminated. The procedure is considered safe and does not involve invasive measures or medication administration. It is primarily used in specific cases, particularly when there is suspicion of issues in the small intestine.
Candidates for capsule endoscopy, according to health insurance conditions, are patients presenting various symptoms, including chronic anemia, when other imaging methods such as regular endoscopy, X-rays, and even CT scans have failed to determine the cause. After diagnosis, the patient can undergo conservative treatment or endoscopic treatment (depending on the findings) through a small bowel endoscopy.