What is Capsule Endoscopy?

Capsule Endoscopy is a state-of-the-art procedure that uses a small, swallowable camera in the form of a capsule to take thousands of pictures of your digestive tract. The capsule, about the size of a vitamin pill, is equipped with a tiny camera, light source, and transmitter. As it moves naturally through your esophagus, stomach, and small intestine, it captures images that are sent to a recording device worn by the patient. These images allow your doctor to get a comprehensive view of the small intestine to detect abnormalities that may be causing digestive symptoms.

United Gastroenterology Associates, PLLC  for Capsule Endoscopy

At United Gastroenterology Associates, we are proud to offer the latest in digestive health diagnostics, including Capsule Endoscopy. Led by Dr. Muhammad Ali Khan, MD, FACP, FASGE, our team provides expert care using advanced technology to ensure accurate diagnoses and effective treatment. Dr. Khan, a board-certified gastroenterologist with extensive training, has completed his Internal Medicine residency at the University of Toledo and a fellowship in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the University of Tennessee. His experience and dedication to gastroenterology, combined with his research and leadership in the field, make him a trusted provider in the Houston area.

What to Expect During Capsule Endoscopy

At United Gastroenterology Associates, we make the Capsule Endoscopy procedure as simple and convenient as possible. Here’s what you can expect during the process:

1. Before the Procedure: You will receive instructions from our team on how to prepare, which typically includes fasting for 12 hours prior to the procedure. This ensures the best possible images of your small intestine.
2. The Procedure: On the day of the procedure, you will swallow the capsule, which is about the size of a large vitamin pill. Once swallowed, the capsule will travel through your digestive system while you go about your normal activities. The capsule captures images of your small intestine and transmits them to a small recording device that you wear on a belt around your waist.
3. After the Procedure: The procedure takes approximately 8 hours. After that time, you will return the recording device to our clinic, where your doctor will review the captured images. The capsule will naturally pass through your digestive system and be excreted in your stool, typically within a day or two.

Benefits of Capsule Endoscopy

• Non-invasive: Unlike traditional endoscopy or colonoscopy, Capsule Endoscopy doesn’t require sedation or recovery time. It’s painless and allows you to continue your day as usual while the capsule collects images.
• Comprehensive View: Capsule Endoscopy provides detailed images of the small intestine, which can be difficult to reach with standard endoscopic procedures.
• Early Detection: The ability to detect conditions early, such as small intestine tumors, Crohn’s disease, or unexplained bleeding, allows for more timely and effective treatment.
• Safe and Convenient: The capsule is small, disposable, and passes naturally through your system, making it a safe and easy procedure.

Who Should Have a Capsule Endoscopy?

Capsule Endoscopy is often recommended for patients with:

• Unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding that has not been identified with other diagnostic methods.
• Chronic abdominal pain or diarrhea that might be caused by small intestine issues.
• Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease.
• Celiac disease that requires monitoring of the small intestine.

Conveniently Located in Cypress and Katy

We are conveniently located in Cypress and Katy, serving patients throughout Houston, The Woodlands, Spring, Richmond, and Fulshear. We accept most major insurance plans, ensuring that our patients receive the best care without financial strain.