Capsule endoscopy

Like virtual colonoscopy, capsule endoscopy promises several advantages over traditional colonoscopy: it is non-invasive, comfortable for patients, does not require sedation and carries no risk of colon perforation.

However, currently, capsule endoscopy is only used for the study of the small intestine, specifically on patients with chronic gastrointestinal hemorrhage (bleeding) of origin not detected by conventional endoscopy.

In capsule endoscopy, a small device (11 by 30 mm), similar to a medicine capsule, is swollen with a little of water to help to carry it through the entire digestive system.

No anesthesia is necessary, but the procedure requires prior preparation to assure the colon is empty to be visualized and analyzed.

The capsule includes a battery, a light source, an image capture system and a device to record these images. The pictures are recorded as the capsule travels through the gut (this can take up to 10 hours, during which the person can have a regular life). The images are transmitted (wirelessly) to a device placed at the waist. In the computer, specialized software analyzes the images looking for abnormalities to be examined by the doctor. 

The capsule is eliminated through the stool in 1 or 2 days, and not reused.