Capsule Endoscopy
Painless and Advanced Capsule Endoscopy in Essex and London
Capsule endoscopy is a technological advancement that has revolutionized the way we examine the digestive tract. It involves the use of a tiny wireless camera housed inside a vitamin-sized capsule that a patient swallows. This camera takes thousands of pictures that are transmitted to a recorder worn on a belt around the patient's waist.
There are three primary types of capsule endoscopy: small bowel capsule endoscopy, colon capsule endoscopy and pan-enteric capsule endoscopy.
Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy
Small bowel capsule endoscopy primarily focuses on visualizing the small intestine, a region that is not easily accessed by traditional endoscopy techniques. Doctors employ this procedure to diagnose and identify problems such as bleeding, inflammatory bowel diseases, polyps, or tumours in the small intestine.
The procedure is safe and typically only requires an overnight fast as preparation. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications that should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Colon Capsule Endoscopy
Colon capsule endoscopy, on the other hand, is a non-invasive procedure designed to visualize the colon. This method is primarily used to screen for colorectal cancer and polyps. It serves as an alternative for patients who are unable to undergo a traditional colonoscopy or for those who prefer a non-invasive method.
Like the small bowel capsule endoscopy, the preparation for a colon capsule endoscopy typically involves an overnight fast and a bowel cleansing regimen. The risks and complications associated with this procedure are minimal but should be discussed with your healthcare provider.
Through these procedures, healthcare providers can gain valuable insights into the condition of a patient's digestive tract, enabling them to provide more accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.
Pan-enteric Capsule Endoscopy
Panenteric capsule endoscopy is a revolutionary medical procedure that allows doctors to examine the entire gastrointestinal tract non-invasively. This method combines the benefits of both small bowel capsule and colon capsule endoscopy, enabling healthcare providers to visualize the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and colon in one procedure.
The preparation for a panenteric capsule endoscopy may vary depending on the specific conditions and needs of the patient but typically involves an overnight fast and a bowel cleansing regimen. It is a safe and non-invasive procedure, but as with any medical procedure, potential risks and complications should be discussed with the healthcare provider.
By providing a comprehensive view of the entire gastrointestinal tract, panenteric capsule endoscopy significantly enhances the ability of healthcare providers to diagnose and treat various digestive disorders effectively.