Here Is Everything You Need To Know About Capsule Endoscopy

We all have heard about endoscopy, but do you know about capsule endoscopy?

Like normal endoscopy, capsule endoscopy is also done to examine the gastrointestinal tract (GI) to diagnose conditions. Both of these procedures have become increasingly popular among the gastroenterologists worldwide.

In this blog, we will shed light on what capsule endoscopies are, their costs and benefits.

How Is Capsule Endoscopy Performed?

Capsule endoscopy is one type of endoscopy. During the procedure, you will be required to swallow a tiny wireless camera that is fitted inside a disposable capsule. The camera clicks several photos as it moves through the digestive tract.

The images are captured which allows the gastroenterologist to find whether there is any bleeding or abnormalities in the GI tract, especially the small intestine. The camera then exits your body through the poop, usually in a day.

Capsule endoscopy is completely a safe and non-invasive procedure. No sedation or any kind of anaesthesia is required. Patients who have had capsule endoscopy experienced nothing at all during the procedure.

Only if someone has any swallowing difficulty, capsule endoscopy is avoided as there is a risk for the capsule to get stuck in the GI tract.

What Is The Cost Of The Capsule Endoscopy in Kolkata?

Capsule endoscopy cost in Kolkata is affordable and of high quality as compared to other cities. On average, the cost of the procedure is around Rs.45,000 to Rs.50,000. However, there are other factors which determine its price such as the location, expertise of the healthcare provider and availability of facilities in the hospitals.

When Is Capsule Endoscopy Done?

You will be recommended capsule endoscopy if your gastroenterologist suspects the following:

• Gastrointestinal conditions like Crohn’s disease, celiac disease and ulcerative colitis.
• Unexplained bleeding in the GI tract
• Gastrointestinal cancer
• Polyps or tumours
• Severe and frequent abdominal pain
• Esophageal conditions like Barrett’s esophagus

Benefits Of Capsule Endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is a highly effective procedure to look for tumours, polyps or other kinds of problems in the small intestine when other types of endoscopies have failed to give effective results. It is completely painless and safe with little or no risks.

Moreover, it has a higher diagnostic yield to look for lesions or lumen in the GI tract. Capsule endoscopy cost is also low, making it an affordable option for patients.

All these factors make the procedure an appealing choice for both patients and surgeons to diagnose intestinal problems and offer effective solutions to the disorders.

How Long Does It Take To Get The Results?

After the examination of the GI tract is complete, the surgeon compiles the images into a video. He carefully watches the video to look for anomalies.

Whatever the result, it is then discussed with the patient to begin treatment within 2-3 weeks.

Which Is Better – Capsule Endoscopy Or Normal Endoscopy?

Both tests give accurate results to detect issues in the GI tract. However, when it comes to diagnosing problems which are harder to find with normal endoscopy, capsule endoscopy is the preferred choice.

After undergoing normal endoscopy, you will often hear patients complaining of some sort of pain and discomfort in their throat. However, this is not the case with capsule endoscopy as patients are required to swallow a tiny capsule with a camera fixed in it which causes no discomfort.

Always consult your doctor to determine the type of endoscopy you will require to get the best results.

To Conclude

Now, if you are in search of a gastroenterologist who has the skills and knowledge to perform capsule endoscopy, your search ends with
Dr. Indraneel Saha.

He has more than 32 years of experience in treating various gastrointestinal issues with exceptional diagnostic procedures.