What is an upper endoscopy. How to prepare for the procedure. What happens during an upper endoscopy. What types of anesthesia are used. How long does the procedure take. What are the risks and benefits of upper endoscopy. How to recover after the procedure.

Understanding Upper Endoscopy: A Vital Diagnostic Tool

An upper endoscopy, also known as esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), is a crucial medical procedure used to examine the upper part of the digestive system. This minimally invasive technique allows doctors to visualize the esophagus, stomach, and the initial portion of the small intestine (duodenum) using a specialized instrument called an endoscope.

The endoscope is a long, flexible tube equipped with a tiny camera at its tip, providing high-resolution images of the gastrointestinal tract. With approximately 6.1 million upper endoscopies performed annually in the United States, this procedure has become an essential diagnostic tool in modern gastroenterology.

Why Are Upper Endoscopies Performed?

Upper endoscopies are conducted for various reasons, primarily to investigate and diagnose gastrointestinal conditions. Some common indications include:

• Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Difficulty or pain while swallowing
• Unexplained weight loss

Moreover, individuals with cirrhosis may undergo regular upper endoscopies to monitor potential life-threatening complications, such as esophageal varices.

Preparing for Your Upper Endoscopy: Essential Steps

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful upper endoscopy. The primary goal is to ensure a clear view of the upper gastrointestinal tract for accurate diagnosis. Here are the key steps to prepare for your procedure:

1. Fasting: Avoid eating or drinking for at least 8 hours before the procedure. Your doctor may advise you to begin fasting at midnight, regardless of the scheduled time.
2. Dietary restrictions: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding food and drink consumption in the days leading up to the endoscopy. You may be limited to clear liquids for 24 to 48 hours before the procedure.
3. Medication review: Provide your physician with a comprehensive list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you take. Some medications may need to be temporarily discontinued to prevent complications such as bleeding.

Is it necessary to adjust your medication regimen before an upper endoscopy? In some cases, yes. Your doctor will provide specific instructions based on your individual medical history and the medications you’re currently taking. It’s crucial to follow these instructions carefully to ensure the procedure’s safety and effectiveness.

The Upper Endoscopy Procedure: What to Expect

Understanding the steps involved in an upper endoscopy can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth experience. Here’s what typically happens during the procedure:

1. IV insertion: An intravenous line will be placed in your arm to administer anesthesia and any necessary medications.
2. Mouth protection: A bite block or plastic mouth guard will be inserted to protect your teeth, mouth, and the endoscope.
3. Positioning: You’ll likely be positioned on your left side before or after anesthesia administration, depending on the type of anesthesia used.
4. Endoscope insertion: Once you’re under anesthesia, the physician will gently insert the endoscope through your mouth and down your throat to begin the examination.

How long does an upper endoscopy typically take? The procedure itself is relatively brief, usually lasting between 5 to 10 minutes. However, if tissue samples need to be collected or additional interventions are required, it may take slightly longer.

Anesthesia Options for Upper Endoscopy: Ensuring Comfort and Safety

The type of anesthesia used during an upper endoscopy plays a crucial role in ensuring patient comfort and procedural success. An anesthesiologist, a medical doctor specializing in anesthesia, pain management, and critical care medicine, will assess your individual risk factors and recommend the most appropriate option.

Common Anesthesia Options for Upper Endoscopy

• No sedation: In rare cases, usually for high-risk patients or some pregnant individuals, the procedure may be performed without sedation. A topical anesthetic is applied to the throat to improve tolerance.
• Monitored sedation: This can range from minimal (drowsy but able to communicate) to deep (asleep but not unconscious). Moderate or deep sedation is most common for upper endoscopies.
• General anesthesia: Although rare for upper endoscopies, this option may be used in hospital settings for high-risk patients. Under general anesthesia, you’ll be unconscious, and your bodily functions will be closely monitored and supported.

What factors influence the choice of anesthesia for an upper endoscopy? The decision depends on various factors, including your medical history, overall health status, personal preferences, and the specific requirements of the procedure. Your anesthesiologist will discuss these options with you to determine the most suitable approach.

Potential Risks and Complications of Upper Endoscopy

While upper endoscopy is generally considered a safe procedure, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and complications. Understanding these can help you make an informed decision and recognize any post-procedure issues that may arise.

Common Risks Associated with Upper Endoscopy

• Bleeding: This is more likely to occur if tissue samples are taken or polyps are removed during the procedure.
• Infection: Although rare, there’s a slight risk of infection following an upper endoscopy.
• Perforation: In very rare cases, the endoscope may cause a tear in the lining of the esophagus, stomach, or duodenum.
• Reaction to sedation: Some patients may experience adverse reactions to the sedatives used during the procedure.

How can the risks of upper endoscopy be minimized? Proper preparation, following your doctor’s instructions, and choosing an experienced gastroenterologist can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications. Additionally, informing your healthcare team about any existing medical conditions or allergies is crucial for ensuring your safety.

Benefits and Diagnostic Value of Upper Endoscopy

Despite the potential risks, upper endoscopy offers numerous benefits and plays a vital role in diagnosing and treating various gastrointestinal conditions. Understanding these advantages can help patients appreciate the value of this procedure in managing their health.

Key Benefits of Upper Endoscopy

• Early detection of gastrointestinal cancers
• Accurate diagnosis of conditions such as GERD, ulcers, and celiac disease
• Ability to collect tissue samples for biopsy
• Option to perform therapeutic interventions during the procedure
• Minimal invasiveness compared to surgical alternatives

How does upper endoscopy compare to other diagnostic methods for gastrointestinal issues? Upper endoscopy offers several advantages over imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans. It provides direct visualization of the gastrointestinal tract, allows for immediate tissue sampling, and can be used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in a single session.

Recovery and Post-Procedure Care After Upper Endoscopy

The recovery process following an upper endoscopy is typically quick and straightforward. However, it’s essential to follow your doctor’s post-procedure instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery and minimize any potential complications.

Key Points for Post-Endoscopy Care

1. Rest: Plan to rest for the remainder of the day following your procedure, as you may feel drowsy from the sedation.
2. Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home, as you won’t be able to drive for at least 24 hours after receiving sedation.
3. Diet: Start with clear liquids and gradually return to your normal diet as tolerated, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
4. Medication: Resume your regular medications as directed by your healthcare provider.
5. Follow-up: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments and contact your doctor if you experience any concerning symptoms.

When can patients expect to return to normal activities after an upper endoscopy? Most individuals can resume their regular activities the day following the procedure. However, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid strenuous activities if you still feel fatigued or uncomfortable.

Interpreting Upper Endoscopy Results: Next Steps in Your Healthcare Journey

After your upper endoscopy, your healthcare provider will discuss the findings with you. Understanding these results is crucial for planning your next steps and managing your gastrointestinal health effectively.

Possible Outcomes of an Upper Endoscopy

• Normal findings: No significant abnormalities detected in the examined areas.
• Identification of specific conditions: Such as ulcers, inflammation, or precancerous changes.
• Discovery of structural abnormalities: Including strictures or diverticula.
• Detection of foreign bodies or tumors.
• Inconclusive results: Requiring additional testing or procedures for a definitive diagnosis.

How long does it typically take to receive upper endoscopy results? In many cases, your doctor can provide preliminary results immediately after the procedure. However, if biopsies were taken, it may take several days to receive the final pathology report. Your healthcare provider will discuss the timeline for receiving results and any necessary follow-up appointments.

Upper endoscopy is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal conditions. By understanding the procedure, its preparation, and what to expect during and after the examination, patients can approach this important diagnostic test with confidence. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance regarding your specific medical situation.

Upper Endoscopy – Risks, Prep, & Procedure

Upper Endoscopy

Endoscopy is a medical procedure in which a doctor looks inside your body using an instrument called an endoscope—a long, thin, flexible tube with a tiny camera attached to it. Endoscopy is used for many examinations, but an upper endoscopy is used specifically to look at the esophagus, the stomach, and the first part of the small intestine (called the duodenum). An estimated 6.1 million upper endoscopies are performed in the U.S. each year¹.

You may also hear the procedure called an upper GI endoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, or EGD. Whichever term is used, it’s important to understand the preparation, anesthesia, and post-procedure recovery involved, as well as the anesthesiologist’s role in keeping you safe and comfortable.

What diseases can an upper endoscopy detect?

An upper endoscopy can help identify gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, cancer, precancerous abnormalities, and celiac disease, among other conditions.

When is an upper endoscopy needed?

Often, the impetus for the examination is to assess the cause of symptoms, such as persistent heartburn or acid reflux, bleeding (or dark stools that can indicate bleeding), nausea and vomiting, stomach pain, difficulty swallowing or pain while swallowing, and unexplained weight loss. People with cirrhosis may undergo upper endoscopies on a regular basis because of the disease’s potential to cause life-threatening enlargement or swelling of veins on the esophageal lining.

How should I prepare for an upper endoscopy?

You should not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours before the procedure. Your doctor may advise you to begin your fast at midnight regardless of the time your endoscopy is scheduled to begin. Your doctor should also give you detailed instructions about what you can and cannot eat the day or two before your endoscopy. For example, you may be told to consume only clear liquids for 24 or 48 hours. You should follow all preparation instructions carefully to make sure the doctor will have a clear view of your upper gastrointestinal tract.

Be sure to provide your physician with a full list of all medications, vitamins, or other supplements you take. Your physician can then provide you with instructions about any you should temporarily stop taking to avoid complications such as bleeding.

What happens during an upper endoscopy?

Before the procedure begins, an IV will be inserted in your arm to administer anesthesia, and a bite block or plastic mouth guard will be placed in your mouth to protect your teeth, mouth, and the endoscope. You will most likely be positioned on your left side—before anesthesia is administered if undergoing sedation, but after if receiving general anesthesia. Once you have been anesthetized, your physician will insert the endoscope into your mouth and down your throat to conduct the exam. If you are under general anesthesia or moderate or deep sedation, you will not be aware of or remember what occurs during the procedure.

What are the considerations for anesthesia during the procedure?

Your endoscopy preparation should include an evaluation from an anesthesiologist, a medical doctor who specializes in anesthesia, pain management, and critical care medicine, who will asses your risk for anesthesia-related complications. They will ask about any medical conditions you have, because some conditions can impact the type and level of anesthesia that should be used.

Most types of anesthesia are administered through a vein in your arm. Options range from no anesthesia or sedation at all to general anesthesia, but for upper endoscopies, moderate or deep sedation is most common. The anesthetics that may be used to minimize pain and discomfort and reduce anxiety include propofol, benzodiazepines, and opioids.

• No sedation. Although it does not occur frequently, endoscopies can be performed with no sedation. This is sometimes necessary for extremely high-risk patients and some pregnant patients. A topical anesthetic is typically applied to the back of the throat to make it easier for you to tolerate the endoscope.
• Monitored sedation. The level of sedation can be minimal (you’ll feel drowsy but able to talk and follow directions), moderate (you may fall asleep), or deep (you will fall asleep). Under moderate or deep sedation, you’re likely to have no memory of the procedure, but you will not be unconscious.
• General anesthesia. Although rare for an upper endoscopy, general anesthesia may be used in hospital settings with high-risk patients. Under general anesthesia, you will be unconscious, and many of your body’s functions will slow down or need help to work effectively. A tube may be placed in your throat to help you breathe.

How long does an upper endoscopy take?

The procedure itself is very brief—typically 5 to 10 minutes—although it can be a bit longer if tissue is taken for biopsy.

What should I expect in recovery?

Your throat might feel sore from the insertion of the endoscope, and you might temporarily feel bloated because of the carbon dioxide or air that’s used to give the physician a better view of the stomach. Nausea is possible, but the propofol often used for anesthesia helps prevent it.

You’ll feel groggy for about 30 minutes after the procedure, but that feeling should start to fade within the hour. Even so, you should not make any big decisions the rest of the day, and you will need to have someone take you home.

What are upper endoscopy risks?

The risk of complications is low, as noted by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. It identifies low but potential risks as an abnormal reaction to the sedative, perforation in the lining of your upper GI tract, and bleeding from the site where the physician took tissue samples or removed a polyp, if necessary.

As with any procedure requiring anesthesia, factors such as obesity, respiratory disease, and sleep apnea can increase risk. But these risks can be managed, which is why consultation with an anesthesiologist is so important.

¹ Peery AF, Crockett SD, Murphy CC, et al. Burden and cost of gastrointestinal, liver, and pancreatic diseases in the United States: Update 2018. Gastroenterology. 2019;156(1):254–272.e211. https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085(18)35147-3/fulltext?referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fjournals.lww.com%2F. Accessed November 16, 2021.

Anesthesiologists work with your surgical team to evaluate, monitor, and supervise your care before, during, and after surgery—delivering anesthesia, leading the Anesthesia Care Team, and ensuring your optimal safety.

Understanding upper endoscopy and colonoscopy – Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

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• 
  
  

  What is endoscopy?

  Endoscopy is a procedure in which the gastro-intestinal tract (GI tract) is viewed through a lighted, flexible tube with a camera at the end (endoscope). Small samples of tissues cells (biopsy) can also be collected and sent for testing.

  There are two basic types of endoscopy:

  1. Upper endoscopy – The esophagus, stomach, and small intestines can be viewed by a thin flexible tube inserted through the mouth.
  2. Colonoscopy – The lining of the large intestine, colon and rectum can be viewed by a flexible tube inserted through the rectum.

  Preparation

  • Blood tests are sometimes required.
  • Medications can be given by vein if needed.
  • Please arrange for a ride home. You may feel drowsy after the procedure due to medications.
  • Upper endoscopy: No food or drink is allowed for six hours before the procedure. An empty stomach allows for the best view and safest exam.
  • Colonoscopy: Drink only clear liquids for at least 24 hours before the procedure. A laxative or special cleansing solution will be ordered by the physician to clear the bowel of stool so that the rectum/intestines can be seen. (See below for specific instructions)

  Day of procedure

  • The doctor will explain the procedure and get your consent.
  • Tell your doctor about medications you are taking.
  • Discuss allergies to medications and other medical conditions.
  • This is the time to ask questions about procedure.

  What can I expect during upper endoscopy?

  Your doctor will spray your throat with a local anesthetic or give you a sedative to help you relax. You’ll then lie on your side, and a doctor will pass the endoscope through your mouth and into the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The endoscope doesn’t interfere with your breathing. Most patients consider the test only slightly uncomfortable, and many patients fall asleep during the procedure.

  What happens after upper endoscopy?

  You will be observed closely until most of the effects of the medication have worn off. Your throat might be a little sore, and you might feel temporarily bloated due to the air introduced into your stomach during the test. You will be able to eat after you leave unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

  Your doctor generally can tell you your test results on the day of the procedure; however, the results of some tests might take several days.

  If you received sedatives, you won’t be allowed to drive after the procedure even though you might not feel tired. You should arrange for someone to accompany you home because the sedatives may affect your judgment and reflexes for the rest of the day.

  What happens during colonoscopy?

  Colonoscopy is well-tolerated and rarely causes much pain. You might feel pressure, bloating or cramping during the procedure. You will likely receive a sedative to help you relax and better tolerate any discomfort.

  You will lie on your side or back while your doctor slowly advances a flexible tube (colonoscope) through your large intestine to examine the lining. The whole procedure itself usually takes 45 to 60 minutes, although you should plan on two to three hours for waiting, preparation and recovery.

  What happens after a colonoscopy?

  Your physician will explain the results of the examination to you, although you’ll have to wait for the results of any biopsies performed. If you were given sedatives during the procedure, someone must drive you home and stay with you. Even if you feel alert after the procedure, your judgment and reflexes could be slow for the rest of the day. You may have some cramping or bloating because of the air introduced into the colon during the examination. This should disappear quickly when you pass gas.

  You should be able to eat after the examination, but your doctor may restrict your diet and activities, especially after the removal of any polyps.

  
  
  

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• Treatments & Procedures

Endoscopy – what is this procedure

Endoscopy is an invasive method of examining hollow organs using endoscopes – flexible tubes equipped with a light source and passages for inserting surgical instruments. Endoscopic research methods are widely used in proctology, gastroenterology, otolaryngology, oncology, surgery and other areas of medicine.

The uniqueness of the method is due to its accuracy and information content. During the procedure, the doctor can take the material for a histological examination, carry out a number of therapeutic measures, and reliably assess the condition of the membranes lining the organ. Endoscopy – what kind of procedure it is, what are the advantages – experts will answer these and other questions in the article below.

Possibilities of endoscopy

Endoscopy is considered a universal method for detecting diseases of hollow organs and entire systems. The procedure is prescribed as a primary or differential diagnosis. The possibilities of endoscopic examination are wide:

• early diagnosis of structural changes in mucous membranes, tumors;
• detection of erosive foci, polyps, diverticula, ulcers;
• determination of infectious and inflammatory foci;
• tissue biopsy with biopsy sampling for histological analysis;
• administration of drugs for the purpose of antibacterial or antiseptic treatment of a hollow organ;
• laser treatment, cryodestruction method (for example, when removing polyposis formations).

Thanks to endoscopy, low-traumatic surgical interventions, catheterization, bypass procedures can be performed.

Scope

Rigid or flexible endoscopes (fiberscopes) are used in endoscopy. Flexible have a fiberglass structure – an image conductor to a computer.

Today, video endoscopes equipped with a miniature video camera are more commonly used. The device transmits information to the computer in real time. The tube of rigid endoscopes is made of metal. Main types of endoscopes:

• arthroscope – examination of articular structures;
• hysteroscope for examining the internal female genital organs;
• colonoscope – allows you to examine the large intestine;
• proctosigmoscope – the equipment allows diagnosing diseases of the rectum and sigmoid colon;
• tracheobronchoscope – examines the airways;
• laparoscope – used in the diagnosis of diseases of the peritoneum and abdominal space;
• gastroscope (esophagogastroduodenoscope) – the equipment allows you to evaluate the organ complex of the upper digestive tract;
• cystoscope – a device used in urology, nephrology and gynecology for the diagnosis of diseases of the genitourinary system.

The endoscopy procedure is named according to the equipment chosen. So, when using a colonoscope as part of the diagnosis of proctological diseases, they talk about colonoscopy, when using an arthroscope, about conducting arthroscopy, if necessary, studies of the gastrointestinal tract suggest fibrogastroduodenoscopy.

How an endoscopy is done

Endoscopic examination is carried out through natural anatomical passages. The procedure is often performed under local anesthesia to maintain patient contact on an outpatient basis. Sometimes the question of the need for anesthesia is decided.

In some cases, such as laparoscopy, the insertion of the equipment is carried out through punctures. In this case, patients are in the hospital until the state of health normalizes.

Endoscopic technique is widely used for appendicitis, removal of the gallbladder, tumors, heart bypass. Endoscopy in surgery reduces the invasiveness of the operation, accelerates the recovery of patients and minimizes intra- and postoperative complications.

The most frequent endoscopic examinations

Most often, endoscopy is performed in gastroenterological and proctological practice. These studies are distinguished by their availability and good tolerability by patients. How is endoscopy performed in the study of the upper and lower digestive tract, the genitourinary system.

FGDS or fibrogastroduodenoscopy

Performed when the patient complains of discomfort and pain in the stomach, in preparation for abdominal surgery, for dynamic control of the prescribed treatment. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and lasts no more than 5 minutes.

The gastroscope is inserted into the patient through the oropharynx, having previously treated the throat with a solution of lidocaine. The patient is fitted with a mouthpiece, which must be clamped with teeth. At the deep entrance, the endoscope is immersed through the esophagus to the stomach. Inspection is carried out with the injection of air into the cavity of the stomach to straighten the mucous membranes for better visualization.

At the end of the examination, the doctor makes a conclusion. If necessary, take pictures, fix the nuances of the study.

Intestinal examination

Endoscopy of the intestine or colonoscopy is a common method for detecting diseases of the large intestine, various pathological changes in the membranes. Examination of the lining mucous membranes and the walls of the organ is performed using a flexible endoscope for therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Indications for bowel endoscopy are:

• heaviness during emptying, constipation, episodes of intestinal obstruction;
• ulcerative erosive process;
• bleeding of the gastrointestinal tract;
• pain;
• polyps, neoplasms.

In diseases of the rectum in the sigmoid segment of the intestine, sigmoidoscopy is indicated. The study is carried out using a proctoscope – a tube with a lighting device and an air injection mechanism. Sigmoidoscopy allows you to assess the length of the intestine up to 22-30 cm from the entrance to the anus.

Genitourinary system

Endoscopy in urology or gynecology is a ureteroscopy or cystoscopy procedure. Both methods can detect diseases of the bladder and urinary tract.

Cystoscopy allows you to evaluate the function of the kidneys, the condition of the bladder, the presence of foreign bodies, foci of ureteral stricture. With the help of a cystoscope, it is possible to carry out procedures for instilling the bladder with antibacterial drugs, antiseptics for chronic cystitis, install a urethral catheter, and take tissues for histological examination.

Today, endoscopy is the method of choice in the diagnosis of hollow organs, along with ultrasound examination. The procedure has a wide range of indications and possibilities. After an endoscopic examination, the reliability of the final diagnosis increases dramatically. Modern diagnostic approaches minimize discomfort and pain for patients.

25.02.2022

Services

Doctors

Medvedev Dmitry Vladimirovich

Endoscopist, superior category

Chizhikov Stanislav Olegovich

Therapist, 1st category

Articles

Capsule endoscopy – price, make video capsule endoscopy of the intestine in “SM-Clinic”

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Capsule endoscopy is a modern, non-invasive and highly informative method for examining the small and large intestines.

The essence of the method is simple – the patient swallows a special capsule equipped with one or two cameras. As it moves through the gastrointestinal tract, the device takes pictures and transmits information to the recording receiver. The doctor analyzes the received data and gives a conclusion. After a while, the capsule is excreted from the body naturally.

Information about the state of the entire gastrointestinal tract allows you to identify pathology in the small and large intestines. The study is recorded for 10–12 hours, then the endoscopist deciphers the data and draws up an examination protocol.

Capsule endoscopy at SM-Clinic is

1. An effective method for diagnosing diseases of the small intestine

   This is the most informative examination for superficial lesions of the small intestine mucosa, surpassing the capabilities of X-ray with barium, MRI and scintigraphy. But video capsule endoscopy, of course, can do more than that: it allows you to get additional information about the state of the entire gastrointestinal tract.

2. State of the art high resolution equipment

   The high resolution of the images obtained during the diagnostic process allows you to examine in detail the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, to detect pathologies and changes. This becomes possible due to the use of modern equipment in our clinics, which provides high quality recording, transmission and display of data.

3. Patient comfort and high hygiene requirements

   Capsules are miniature devices coated with a polymer shell. Thanks to this technological solution, they are non-traumatic for the organs under study. You don’t have to worry about the hygiene of the procedure either: the video capsules are individual and disposable.

Capsule endoscopy target

Conducting video capsule endoscopy allows you to get accurate information about the state of the entire gastrointestinal tract, including parts of the small intestine that cannot be examined using other diagnostic procedures (colonoscopy, gastroscopy, ultrasound, etc. ) and detect serious diseases at an early stage.

Some diseases are accompanied by certain symptoms (for example, blood in the stool, persistent abdominal pain), but the diagnosis fails to reveal any abnormalities. In this case, a study using a video capsule comes to the rescue. (extra space before dot)

Capsule endoscopy can be used as a “screening” study of the colon. If ulcers, tumors, polyps are found during this procedure, the patient will need to perform a traditional colonoscopy.

Indications for capsule endoscopy

Our specialists prescribe the procedure for the following conditions:

• Anemia, if gastroscopy and colonoscopy do not reveal hidden bleeding and reasons for a decrease in hemoglobin level. In this case, the examination will reveal ulcers or tumors of the small intestine.
• Acute gastrointestinal haemorrhage, unless its source is found in the stomach or large intestine.
• Crohn’s disease is suspected because the lesion may be located in an area where colonoscopy is possible.
• Diagnosis of intestinal polyps, especially if the parents have suffered or are suffering from polyposis of the gastrointestinal tract.
• Concomitant pathology of the small intestine in some autoimmune diseases.
• Diagnosis of celiac disease.
• Persistent pain in the abdomen of unknown origin, while other diagnostic methods of the gastrointestinal tract do not reveal abnormalities.

How capsule endoscopy works

Duration of examination

10-12 hours

Preparation of an opinion

2 hours

Results of the procedure:

pictures, video recording and a detailed conclusion of a diagnostician describing the state of the digestive tract

The doctor attaches sensors to the patient’s abdomen, which lead to the receiver. The patient wears this device on a belt holder or over the shoulder. Then the patient, under the supervision of an endoscopist, swallows the capsule and goes to the day hospital. After 3-4 hours after the start of the examination, it is permissible to eat.

During the study, we do not recommend that patients lie down all the time, but must move, sit or walk to avoid delays in the movement of the capsule through the intestines. After 10-12 hours after the start of the procedure, the receiver signals the end of the recording. The doctor removes the sensors and the receiver and downloads the information received into the computer. You can go home and not worry about the video capsule – it will pass out of the body along with feces.

Capsule endoscopy at SM-Clinic

Results of capsule endoscopy

The next day after the procedure, the doctor interprets the results of the examination. Thanks to a special program, a 12-hour image file can be viewed in fast or slow motion – usually it takes 3-4 hours. The doctor records the data in the examination protocol, which is given to the patient along with a disk with slides and video clips.

Video capsule endoscopy allows to detect pathologies of the mucous membrane of the small and large intestines, the presence of benign or malignant neoplasms, hidden bleeding, etc. According to the results of the examination, it is possible to prescribe appropriate treatment or consultations with other medical specialists.

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Preparation for capsule endoscopy

In order for the results of the examination to be as accurate as possible, and for the procedure to be safe, you need to carefully prepare for capsule endoscopy. First of all, the doctor who gave the referral for the examination will advise you.

3 days before the examination, it is necessary to switch to a slag-free diet, that is, exclude fatty and fried foods, alcoholic and carbonated drinks, fresh fruits and vegetables in any form, dairy products, sweets from the diet. The day before the study, it is necessary to cleanse the intestines with special preparations (for example, Fortrans) and stop eating 12 hours before the procedure. The attending physician will give you a detailed scheme of preparation for videocapsule endoscopy. It is necessary for the patient to visit the doctor at least 3 days before the examination in order to receive recommendations in the preparation and conduct of the study.

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Video capsule endoscopy. Effective and comfortable diagnostics of the gastrointestinal tract

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SM-Clinic uses PillCam and MiroCam systems for video capsule endoscopy. The capsule is equipped with one or two video cameras, four light sources and is powered by a rechargeable battery.

The 11 x 22 mm small intestine capsule with one video camera has an adaptive image acquisition rate of 2 – 6 frames per second depending on the speed of the capsule, a wide viewing angle of 156°. The 11 x 31 mm colon capsule with two video cameras has an adaptive acquisition rate of 4 – 35 frames per second depending on the speed of the capsule, a viewing angle of 172° on each side, which provides a nearly 360° view. The images are transmitted to a receiver that the patient wears during the examination. The doctor attaches sensors to the patient’s stomach, which lead to the receiver. The patient wears this device on the belt or over the shoulder. Then the patient, under the control of an endoscopist, swallows the capsule and undergoes a study in a day hospital under the supervision of medical personnel.

During the study, it is not recommended to lie down all the time, it is necessary to move, sit or walk in order to avoid delays in the movement of the capsule through the intestines. After 10-12 hours after the start of the procedure, the receiver signals the end of the recording. The doctor removes the sensors and the receiver. Advantages:

• Endoscopists of our clinic are high-level professionals. Their accumulated clinical experience allows them to conduct examinations of patients with suspicions of various diseases and give expert opinions on the results of diagnostics.
• We use high-precision equipment that provides excellent image quality and data transmission. Due to this, the probability of error in deciphering the data and clarifying the diagnosis is minimized.
• Video capsule endoscopy is a highly informative, non-invasive, atraumatic and completely safe method for examining the small intestine, with a low risk of complications. The results of the procedure are recorded on external media, so they can be used repeatedly.
• Testing can be performed on adults and adolescents from 16 years of age.

Under certain conditions, video capsule endoscopy is limited or not recommended. We do not perform the procedure on patients:

• if they have previously been diagnosed with stenoses, strictures or diverticula of the gastrointestinal tract;
• with installed pacemakers or other electrical medical devices;
• dysphagic;
• suffering from epilepsy;
• with acute intestinal obstruction.

We also do not recommend screening for women during pregnancy.

Appointment for capsule endoscopy

Early detection of serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract will give you the opportunity to get rid of the disease in a short time, and in many cases without surgical intervention.

You can find out the details of the procedure, the price of capsule endoscopy and sign up for an examination by calling:

+7 (495) 292-39-72

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Prices for capsule endoscopy

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