22 March 2019 What is a capsule enteroscopy? Capsule enteroscopy is a simple, safe and non-invasive diagnostic test that enables visualisation of all segments of the small intestine. It was developed in 1999. Until that date, there was no other imaging test capable of assessing the full extent of the small intestine. How is a capsule enteroscopy performed? The endoscopic capsule , which measures around 0.5 cm x 2.5 cm, has a light source and a camera that captures images. These images are recorded with the use of sensors applied to the person's body together with a receiver attached to their waist. The capsule is swallowed with the help of a few mouthfuls of water and moves through the digestive tract, propelled by normal digestive movements, while simultaneously capturing images of the intestinal lining (on average, around 2 images per second). After around 8 hours, the sensors and device are removed and the images are processed and displayed on a monitor. While the examination is taking place, which takes approximately 8 hours, the person may carry out their normal daily activities and need not remain in the hospital. At the end of this period, the person should return to the hospital to have the sensors and receiver removed. After 24 to 72 hours, the capsule will be eliminated naturally with the faeces. In what situations is a capsule enteroscopy performed? It is always for the doctor to decide whether there is a need for a particular test, depending on the individual characteristics of each person and their complaints or illness . As a general rule, a capsule enteroscopy may be recommended in the following cases: Chronic abdominal pain; Chronic anaemia; Gastrointestinal bleeding of unknown cause; Suspected intestinal tuberculosis; Changes in absorption; Intestinal polyposis; Ulceration and neoplasms; Where Crohn's disease is suspected or an assessment of its extent is needed; Clarification of issues arising in other examinations. Capsule enteroscopy is particularly useful for early diagnosis of certain diseases that can only be picked up at later stages by other tests. How long does a capsule enteroscopy take? It takes, on average, about 8 hours to carry out a capsule enteroscopy. The capsule is eliminated 24 to 72 hours after swallowing. What are the limitations of capsule enteroscopy? As with any other test, a capsule enteroscopy can miss lesions and diagnoses. This examination also has the limitations of not allowing samples to be collected or treatment procedures to be carried out. It also has some contraindications , including the presence of: Stenosis, either known or suspected; Intestinal or fistula obstructions; Electronic implants (e.g. pacemaker); Swallowing disorders; Pregnancy. Are there any side effects, risks or complications associated with capsule enteroscopy? Capsule video enteroscopy is an examination that is safe and well tolerated by most people. However, there are some risks associated, as is the case with any other examination in which devices or medicines are used. The greatest risk associated with capsule video enteroscopy is retention of the capsule in the gastrointestinal tract. This may result in the need for an X-ray examination to locate it and/or identify the cause of the occurrence or, where necessary, a surgical procedure to remove it. However, in most cases the capsule is eliminated without any problems. To reduce the risk of complications it is essential that the doctor is informed of: Allergies; Other pre-existing illnesses; Ongoing treatments. In the hospitals and clinics of the Hospital da Luz network, there are gastroenterologists who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of digestive diseases and who can perform the necessary examinations for your condition. This article was written with the support of physicians and other clinical professionals from the Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
