What Is a Colon Capsule Endoscopy and How Does It Work?

Colon capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure to examine the large bowel, also known as the colon. It is designed to take pictures of the bowel’s lining to identify potential signs of disease. This method serves as an alternative for viewing the colon without inserting equipment into the body, with the goal of obtaining images for medical review.

The Colon Capsule Endoscopy Process

The procedure uses a vitamin-sized capsule that you swallow. This capsule contains tiny cameras, a light source, and a transmitter. As it travels through your digestive tract, the cameras capture thousands of high-resolution images of the intestinal lining. The journey through the digestive system takes about eight to ten hours.

During the examination, the images are wirelessly sent to a data recorder worn on a belt, allowing you to go about most of your normal daily activities. After the examination is over, you return the recorder to the clinic. A specialist then reviews the images for any abnormalities, and the single-use capsule is naturally passed from the body.

When is Colon Capsule Endoscopy Used?

This procedure is considered for individuals who have had an incomplete traditional colonoscopy. It also serves as an alternative for patients who have higher risks associated with sedation or have had difficult colonoscopies in the past. In some healthcare systems, it is used as an initial test to investigate symptoms that might suggest bowel disease.

Certain conditions may make a person unsuitable for a colon capsule endoscopy. Individuals with known or suspected blockages, narrowing (strictures) in their gastrointestinal tract, or swallowing disorders are not candidates. Patients with implanted electromedical devices like pacemakers must have their device’s compatibility confirmed before the procedure to avoid interference.

Preparation for the Procedure

To ensure clear images, the bowel must be thoroughly cleaned, similar to the preparation for a standard colonoscopy. This regimen begins a few days before the procedure with a low-residue diet, followed by a clear liquid diet the day before the test.

The preparation involves taking strong laxatives in split doses, one the evening before and another on the morning of the test. It is important to follow the specific instructions provided by the healthcare team. Patients are also advised to temporarily stop certain medications, like iron supplements, which can interfere with the visibility of the colon lining.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Colon Capsule Endoscopy

A primary benefit is that it is less invasive than a conventional colonoscopy and does not require sedation. This allows most people to continue with their regular activities during the test. The procedure is well-tolerated and can visualize the entire colon, even in cases where a traditional colonoscopy was unable to.

The procedure has limitations as it is purely diagnostic and cannot take tissue samples (biopsies) or remove polyps. If abnormalities are found, a follow-up colonoscopy is necessary. In rare instances, the capsule can become stuck in the digestive tract, requiring an endoscopic or surgical procedure for removal. Image quality can also be compromised by inadequate bowel preparation or the capsule’s transit speed.