Imaging the small intestines is best done using a capsule endoscope (Pill Cam). This is a small swallowed camera that is disposable. It sends signals to a belt that you wear from when you swallow the camera in the morning, to when you return to our office in the afternoon.
How are you prepared
Prior to the pill cam you will be provided with full instructions, which you can also download from the below links. The day before your procedure you will need to be on clear fluids only. A small amount of prep (less than 1/3 of the preparation for a colonoscopy) is used to cleanse the small bowel the evening before the test. No sedation is required, as the pill cam is very small and easy to swallow. It typically causes no pain or discomfort.
Special considerations
We would like to know if you are pregnant, or have any implantable electronic devices before you have a pill cam.
Safety and risks
This test is extremely safe. Some minor risks are discussed in the downloadable information sheet. You should not have an MRI until you know that the capsule has passed.
What do we do?
On the day of the test you would arrive at 8am, and be fitted with a belt and shoulder strap. You are then given a small drink and the capsule to swallow. People usually go to work, go home, or out shopping or to the movies at this stage. You will need to return the belt and shoulder strap at 4.30 pm so that we can download your images.
Afterwards
You should follow up with the doctor who ordered the test. Sometimes people do not notice that the capsule has passed, and we need to do an Xray to make sure that it has left your body.
how to make an
appointment
You can make an appointment with any of the doctors at alfred gastroenterology by any one of the following three methods:
- Online. By clicking on this link you will be able to fill in our online appointment request form.
- Email us your referral and your contact details, and we can contact you with an appointment: info@alfredgastroenterology.com.au
- Telephone. Call us during business hours on (+61 2) 9519 8689 to arrange an appointment.
- We will get back to you with an appointment time within 1-2 business days. If you mark your request as urgent, we will do our very best to process it urgently.
- If you have an emergency, or think you might need treatment straight away, then you should call an ambulance (000), or go straight to a hospital.