Capsule Endoscopy in Denver, CO
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Find a ProviderWhat is a small bowel capsule endoscopy?
A small bowel capsule endoscopy is an endoscopic process where a pill-sized capsule, (which has a camera and a battery in it), is ingested by the patient and is then utilized to capture photos of the patient's small bowel or intestine. Approximately 60,000 photos are taken, which, when put together, essentially provide a "movie" of the patient's small bowel.
At Denver Digestive Health Specialists, a small bowel pill endoscopy procedure is usually performed to discover the cause of unexplained bleeding or anemia. It can be employed to assess the small intestine to extensively assess an atypical x-ray, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. Confer with our GI specialists in Denver, CO to request a capsule endoscopy to ensure your intestinal health is preserved.
What should my expectations be before my capsule endoscopy?
You should expect instructions and details from your GI physician in regard to the necessary way to prepare for an upcoming capsule endoscopy. Most patients will be allowed to eat normally the day prior to the exam. Patients will likely receive instruction to refrain from taking anything via your mouth any later than 7 p.m. the night prior to the capsule endoscopy. It is vital to follow the instructions provided to you by your specialist. There may also be supplemental directions regarding your medications. In most situations, your medications will be continued per usual a few hours after the pill capsule is ingested. However, in some situations, such as in individuals on blood thinners (i.e. Plavix®, Coumadin®, warfarin, anti-inflammatories, aspirin) and in diabetics, specialized instructions will be administered.
What should I expect on the day of the capsule endoscopy procedure?
You will be instructed to arrive at the endoscopy center or office 30 minutes in advance of your exam. This is to provide time to complete paperwork and prepare for the capsule endoscopy procedure. You will be instructed to don a vest which holds the monitors which will receive the transmitted photos. After the vest is on, the pill capsule will be activated and then you will swallow it.
After the pill capsule is swallowed, you will be allowed to leave the endoscopy center. You will keep the vest on for the next eight hours. You will be able to drink clear liquids after two hours have elapsed following the exam and may have a regular meal after four hours. Once eight hours have passed, you will return to the endoscopy center and the vest can be removed. To learn more about receiving a capsule endoscopy in Denver, CO, please book a consultation with one of our GI specialists at your earliest convenience.
When will I get my results from my capsule endoscopy?
Once the exam is finished, the images obtained from the capsule will be downloaded to a computer program that produces a "movie" of your small intestine. It may take the physician a number of hours to carefully review these images. Results are generally ready within a week. You should be called by the ordering provider's office with your capsule endoscopy results.
What are the risks of a capsule endoscopy?
For the most part, the small bowel capsule endoscopy is quite a safe procedure. Statistically, complications develop in fewer than 1% of individuals. Generally, these complications are not life-threatening. However, if a complication occurs, it could require hospitalization and a surgical procedure. Before the exam, a consent form will be discussed with the patient by the Denver Digestive Health Specialists nursing staff.
One potential risk is that the pill capsule could become lodged in the intestinal tract, causing a blockage. This would typically require surgery and hospitalization.
It is essential to contact your provider's office immediately if symptoms arise after the capsule endoscopy, such as worsening abdominal pain, bleeding, or fever.
Just like any other medical procedure, a small bowel capsule endoscopy is not flawless. There is a small, accepted risk that issues, such as malignancies, can go undetected at the time of the procedure. It is imperative to continue to follow up with your provider as instructed and to inform them of any persistent or new symptoms.
What are alternatives to a small bowel capsule endoscopy?
To an extent, the alternate options to this procedure will depend on the reason for needing a small bowel capsule endoscopy in the first place. In most cases, esophagogastroduodenoscopy is the best method for evaluating irregularities in the small bowel. However, an x-ray called a small-bowel-follow-through may be used to examine the small intestine instead. An enteroscopy procedure is another option for evaluating the upper part of the small intestine and may also be employed for therapy.
Noninvasive treatment to assist you
To receive an examination of your small bowel in a noninvasive manner, connect with us for consultation at Denver Digestive Health Specialists. Capsule endoscopy is just one of the methods in which our Denver, CO GI physicians will do everything they possibly can to ensure your health is kept secure throughout all of the life stages.
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