Capsule Endoscopy (Pill Cam)
What is Capsule Endoscopy? (Pill Cam)
Capsule endoscopy is a revolutionary technology designed to examine the small bowel. The test involves swallowing a camera capsule (the size of a jelly bean) that takes multiple digital photos of the small bowel.
This capsule camera is not an electronic gadget, but it is a powerful medical device that is able to take clear and extremely useful photographs. The images are transmitted via sensors attached to the abdomen with adhesive stickers.
The small bowel is about 6 meters long and the capsule takes approximately 8 hours to travel through it.
You should pass the capsule naturally in your bowel actions without any discomfort or difficulty.
You do not need to retrieve the camera capsule; it should be flushed down the toilet.
Download the full instructions for undergoing Capsule Endoscopy – pdf
Pill cam is a day procedure.
You will be required to attend our centre in the morning for about 60 minutes in order for the leads and special belt to be attached, after which you will receive the camera capsule to swallow.
You may then leave the hospital and return at 4pm to have the equipment removed.
No sedation or anesthetic is required, however you will need to follow a diet the day before the test and conduct some bowel preparation.