Advancements in Capsule Endoscopy Technology

 What is Capsule Endoscopy?

Capsule endoscopy is a procedure used to record internal images for the medical diagnosis of the gastrointestinal tract. The capsule (Pill Cam) is similar to a standard pharmaceutical capsule size and contains a small camera and a battery-powered array of LEDs. Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is a powerful diagnostic tool in small intestine imaging. VCE technology provides greater magnification than traditional endoscopy but also excellent resolution. It is a clinically useful tool for detecting non-radiographically observed occult bleeding and surface lesions. As the capsule moves passively through the small intestine, it may provide practical information. Gastroenterologists can visualize the oesophagus, stomach, proximal small intestine, and colon. Endoscopy development made it possible. Besides technological advances, the non-invasive diagnosis of gastrointestinal tract pathology remained certain limitations. Before starting capsule endoscopy treatment, patients must clear the intestines of residual food and bacterial trash with laxatives. 

Capsule endoscopy

The patient must swallow a large capsule that may be larger than usual. This capsule comprises one or two video chips (cameras), a mild bulb, a battery, and a radio transmitter. As the capsule travels throughout the oesophagus, abdomen, and small intestine, it takes images hastily. A tiny camera delivers images from a radio transmitter to a small receiver worn around the waist. After the operation took around eight hours, experts downloaded the pics from the receiver into a PC. Gastroenterologists can evaluate the photographs. The capsule is passed through the patient into the toilet and flushed away. Capsules are gelatine material instead of plastic. It is completely degraded in the body and has no harmful effects. Depending on the type of medicine, the cover of any capsule consists of various excipients.

What types of diseases can be diagnosed with Capsule endoscopy? 

Capsule endoscopy may disclose areas of inflammation of the small intestine. Capsule endoscopy may detect tumours in the small intestine or other parts of the digestive tract. At the same time, it is handy for cancer detection. 

What does the procedure involve?

For such a procedure, you ought to swallow the size of a 26x11mm endoscopy capsule prepared with a video camera, light source, radio transmitter, and batteries. Your doctor may suggest it with simethicone, an antiflatulent medication. This addition will avoid bubble formation and visual disruption.

Capsule endoscopy procedure

Capsule consists of 8-hour battery life, a powerful light, a camera, and a small transmitter. The endoscopy capsule goes through your body naturally through peristalsis (contraction and propelled by the GI muscular walls) while taking many pictures.

How long will I be there after the procedure? 

After their procedure, patients remain in the recovery area for 30 to 40 minutes. You may return to the medical centre after about 8 hours so the physician can download and examine the pics on a computer monitor. They can take approximately 50,000 images per investigation and may take a long time to check and process them. Your doctor will usually notify you within a week of the results. A sensor device attached to your abdomen detects images with eight small skin-tapped aerials (similar to ECG electrodes). On the image recorder worn around your waist, these are recorded and stored. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to get an upper endoscopy. 

• Limitations: Capsule endoscopy has certain restrictions to consider. It does not allow for therapeutic interventions, such as biopsies or removal of polyps. Once swallowed, the capsule cannot be steered or controlled, thus relying on natural peristalsis for its movement. In rare cases, the capsule camera may get stuck in the GI tract, requiring further intervention or surgical removal.
• Advances in Technology: Over the years, there have been advancements in capsule endoscopy technology. Newer capsules offer higher-resolution images, longer battery life, improved light sources, and the ability to capture video footage. Some capsule cameras even have additional features, such as the ability to measure pH or temperature in the GI tract.
• Interpretation of Results: A healthcare professional, typically a gastroenterologist, reviews and interprets the recorded images from capsule endoscopy. The pics assist in identifying abnormalities or lesions and guiding further diagnostic tests or interventions as necessary.

It's important to note that the availability and specific details of capsule endoscopy may vary depending on the healthcare facility. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to determine if capsule endoscopy condition and situation.