Today, your Brooklyn doctor can use more-effective and less-invasive technology to learn what is happening within your digestive system. One of the most advanced procedures available is a capsule endoscopy. As the name sounds, this procedure is performed using a capsule that contains a small camera that can wirelessly record images during the procedure. In many cases, this vitamin-sized camera can provide in-depth information as to how your digestive system is working.
How Does Capsule Endoscopy Work?
If your Brooklyn gastroenterologist or other doctor determines a wireless capsule endoscopy is necessary, the procedure generally occurs in a doctor’s outpatient facility or in a hospital setting. The capsule contains a small camera. You’ll swallow the capsule as you would a pill. The camera then travels into your digestive system. As it does, it records thousands of photos of your digestive tract.
Why is Wireless Capsule Endoscopy Necessary?
A traditional endoscopy can be successfully used to see the upper digestive system, but it cannot get deep into the small colon. As a result, the capsule procedure becomes necessary when your doctor wants to see the condition of the interior of your small intestine. This type of procedure is FDA approved for screenings for polyps, which can potentially be cancerous. However, this procedure isn’t necessarily a common one. That is, other alternatives exist that can be more effective because they can remove the polyps discovered during the procedure.
Nevertheless, wireless capsule endoscopy is still highly effective in evaluating the overall condition of the small intestine. It also works well to evaluate the muscular tube that connects your mouth and stomach called the esophagus.
What Happens During a Wireless Capsule Endoscopy?
When you visit your endoscopy doctor at one of our offices either on Ocean Parkway or in Cobble Hill in Brooklyn, New York, for the procedure, you’ll have a series of wires attached to your abdomen. These contain antennas that will allow for recording images from the device. The recorder itself is worn on a belt fitted to your waist. The recorder will collect all of the images. You’ll then swallow the capsule with water. You won’t feel it after that point. You can go about your normal activities for the rest of the day. You may be told to avoid strenuous activity.
The procedure is complete after eight hours or when the capsule emerges in a bowel movement. You can then remove the patches and continue on your day. Your Brooklyn doctor will then collect the camera and device to start collecting data from the images stored on it. Everyone’s digestive system is different, so it may take a few days for you to see the capsule.
It can take a few days to a week for the images and data from the recorder to be analyzed by your doctor. Your doctor will then talk to you about potential outcomes such as gastrointestinal bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease, cancer, celiac disease or polyps. A treatment plan is then designed to achieve any goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wireless Capsule
Why do I need capsule endoscopy instead of upper endoscopy?
Standard upper endoscopy is effective but doesn’t reach deep into the small intestine. Capsule endoscopy uses a capsule-sized device with a camera and battery. Once ingested, the capsule takes thousands of photos of the gastrointestinal tract over an 8-hour period.
The images are then compiled, providing valuable insights into the small intestine. Your Brooklyn GI doctor uses capsule endoscopy to investigate cases of unexplained bleeding in the small intestine. It may also help detect polyps, ulcers, tumors, and Crohn’s disease. The capsule allows your doctor to see parts of the digestive tract that other tests may miss.
How should I prepare for a capsule endoscopy?
An empty stomach is required for the procedure, so you shouldn’t eat or drink anything for about 12 hours beforehand. Inform your doctor about current medications, including over-the-counter drugs. Your doctor may advise you to adjust your dosage before the procedure. The doctor will also advise if bowel cleansing is needed before the exam.
Will I feel any pain during capsule endoscopy?
No. Capsule endoscopy is painless. You simply swallow a small capsule, about the size of a vitamin pill (length: one inch; diameter: 0.5 inches). There are no needles, sedation, or discomfort involved.
Where does the capsule go after the procedure?
The capsule travels naturally through your digestive system. It is passed in your stool, usually within one to two days. You do not need to retrieve it, and it can be flushed away safely. Until the pill is excreted, ensure you don’t schedule an MRI or go near an MRI device.
When will I get my results from my capsule endoscopy?
After the procedure, the images captured by the capsule are downloaded and compiled into a single video using specialized software. It takes our team several hours to review these images. You’ll typically receive the exam results within 1-2 weeks. When you come for the results, your Brooklyn gastro doctor will discuss the findings and any next steps.
What are the potential risks of capsule endoscopy?
Capsule endoscopy is very safe. Most patients have no complications. While rare, the capsule may become stuck in the intestine due to a narrowing (stricture) caused by inflammation or tumors. This would typically result in hospitalization and surgery to prevent the risk of bowel obstruction.
Like any medical procedure, capsule endoscopy isn’t 100% perfect. There’s a chance that abnormalities such as tumors could be missed during the exam. Ensure you mention any new or persistent symptoms to your GI doctor.
How much does capsule endoscopy cost in the Brooklyn area?
The cost varies depending on insurance coverage and the medical need. At Atlantic Gastroenterology, the cost of capsule endoscopy is $2,000. Our team will share costs before anything begins, ensuring you proceed with clarity and confidence.
Does insurance cover the cost of capsule endoscopy?
Many insurance plans cover capsule endoscopy when it is deemed medically necessary. However, since every coverage is unique, it’s essential to understand the scope of your coverage before treatment begins. Our team will help verify your coverage and explain any out-of-pocket costs. We’ll also discuss flexible payment plans available to ease your financial burden.
Who offers capsule endoscopy in Brooklyn, NY?
Capsule endoscopy is a valuable, non-surgical technique for visualizing hard-to-reach areas of the small bowel. At Atlantic Gastroenterology, we are excited to offer this amazing technology in our offices located in Brooklyn, New York, and Coral Springs, Florida. Call 718 521-2840 or schedule a virtual consultation to get started.