Video capsule endoscopy
- A video capsule endoscopy involves swallowing a pill like device that contains a video camera
- The video recording of the small intestine gives invaluable information on the health of the gastrointestinal tract
- At Gutworks Perth, Dr. Vanoo Jayasekeran is an Australian certified gastroenterologist, specialised in managing diseases of the digestive system
What is a video capsule endoscopy?
A) Patient swallows the capsule whilst wearing data recorder and sensor belt.
B) The capsule contains a compact video camera.
C) Capsule traveling in the small intestine taking photo of a bleeding ulcer.
D) Software to study video images.
You will swallow a small capsule containing a miniature video camera.
The pill camera is 3cm long, 1.1 cm wide. You could compare it to the dimensions of a moderately sized vitamin capsule. Your GP or your specialist may have referred you to Gutworks Perth for this type of test. It will be performed at our office.
Gastroenterologist Perth
As a gastroenterologist, my role is to provide a specialist opinion when your GP or another specialist have a concern.
The process and the study usually take 12 hours to complete, for you as an out-patient. During that time, you carry a data recorder in a sling pouch. It records the live data stream that comes directly from the pill camera inside your gastrointestinal tract.
Here at Gutworks, Dr. Jayasekeran and his team value the importance of clear communication. If you are scheduled for a test with the capsule endoscopy for the small intestine, we will take the time to clearly explain the procedure. If you have any questions about the mechanics of the recording device, your specialist will give you more clarification.
How to prepare for capsule endoscopy?
Why is a capsule endoscopy needed?
Gastroenterologist Perth
If there is a suspicion of iron deficiency anaemia, it could be caused by bleeding blood vessels of the gut, inflammatory bowel disease or rarely, certain tumours.
At Gutworks we use a capsule endoscopy to obtain more information. The visual information gives an insight into what may cause your iron deficiency.
Alternatively, it is also indicated when there is a suspicion of bleeding originating from the small intestine.
Whatever the indication, Dr. Jayasekeran at Gutworks Perth will help you undergo this routine procedure. His role is to make sure that you are well informed.
What to expect from a video capsule endoscopy?
The video capsule transmits information to a data recorder. First, we will fit a sensor belt over your torso, and connect the data recorder. Then, Dr. Jayasekeran will ask you to swallow the capsule, the size of a moderately shaped vitamin pill.
At that stage, your gastroenterologist will also give you specific instructions about eating and drinking. For example, he will tell you when you can start eating, or start drinking liquids after you have swallowed the capsule containing video camera. He will ask you to drink water at set intervals, over the next 12 hours. Before bedtime, you will be able to remove the torso belt and the data recorder.
Gastroenterologist Perth
Get in touch with Gutworks Perth if you have questions about the use of this ‘pill camera’. Please, also contact us if you have any other questions about your upcoming endoscopy or colonoscopy procedure.
Dr. Vanoo Jayasekeran and his team look forward to helping you.
What to expect after your procedure?
About Gutworks
Our core procedures include:
- Gastroscopy
- Colonoscopy and polypectomy
- Video capsule endoscopy
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
Endoscopy St John of God Hospital Murdoch
When to see a gastroenterologist
Your enquiry
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Contact Details
Phone: 08 9335 3411
Fax: 08 9335 6155
Office hours
Mon-Fri: 08:00 - 16:00
Sat-Sun: closed
Consulting rooms address
Suite 106, Level 1, Tower C Murdoch Square, 44 Barry Marshall Parade, Murdoch WA 6150Hospital site for Endoscopy Procedures
Endoscopy Unit, SJOG Murdoch Hospital,
100 Murdoch Drive, Murdoch WA 6150