Capsule Endoscopy

This procedure is also commonly known as a Pillcam. Your specialist may request this if you are anaemic (low haemoglobin) and a previous gastroscopy and colonoscopy do not reveal or explain the cause of this. The Pillcam is used to evaluate the 6 metres of small bowel not seen during gastroscopy and colonoscopy.

It is a day procedure where you ingest an easy to swallow gel-coated 26mm capsule containing a tiny camera (about the size of a vitamin pill). Neither sedation or bowel prep is required. Just prior to swallowing the capsule you will be fitted with a sensor belt and recorder box that you will wear for the next 8 hours.

The capsule is single use and gives complete views of the small bowel about 95% of the time.