At MNGI Digestive Health, we’re committed to using the most advanced tools and technologies to better understand, diagnose, and treat digestive disorders. One of the innovative diagnostic tests we use is the capsule endoscopy, often referred to as a “Capsule Visit.” This small but powerful technology provides a simple, non-invasive method for visualizing what’s happening deep inside your digestive tract, particularly the small intestine, an area that can be challenging to evaluate using traditional procedures.
What Is a Capsule Visit?
A Capsule Visit involves swallowing a vitamin-sized capsule that contains a tiny camera. As it travels naturally through your digestive system, it captures thousands of images, especially of the small bowel, and transmits them to a wearable device you’ll take home for the day. These images are later reviewed by an MNGI gastroenterologist who looks for signs of inflammation, bleeding, ulcers, or other abnormalities.
Why Do Our Gastroenterologists Use Capsule Endoscopy?
Traditional endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures are excellent tools, but they can’t always reach or fully visualize the entire small intestine. That’s where the capsule shines. At MNGI, we use capsule endoscopy to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as:
- Crohn’s disease
- Celiac disease
- Unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding
- Suspected tumors or polyps
- Iron deficiency anemia (when a cause hasn’t been identified)
By giving us a closer look at the small bowel, we can provide more accurate diagnoses and tailor care plans that best meet each patient’s needs.
What to Expect from a Capsule Visit at MNGI
The process is simple and comfortable:
- You'll check in for your Capsule Visit and swallow the capsule under the guidance of our care team.
- You’ll wear a sensor belt or recording device that collects images throughout the day as the capsule travels through your digestive system.
- Most patients go home and resume normal, light activities while the capsule does the work.
- You will need to return the recording device to MNGI.
- A board-certified MNGI gastroenterologist will carefully review the images and share the findings with you, either during a follow-up visit or through your patient portal.
Why Patients Prefer Capsule Visits
Patients appreciate capsule endoscopy because it is:
- Minimally invasive
- Sedation-free
- No recovery time needed
- Helpful in identifying issues not visible in other exams
It’s a game-changing option for many people experiencing unexplained GI symptoms, and a valuable tool for ongoing management of chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease.
Capsule endoscopy is just one of the many advanced diagnostic services we offer at MNGI Digestive Health. Our gastroenterologists are highly trained in interpreting these studies and using the results to guide personalized care plans. If you’re experiencing persistent GI symptoms or need a deeper evaluation of your digestive tract, talk to your provider about whether a Capsule Visit is right for you. Schedule an appointment today!
