Capsule endoscopy is performed when direct visualisation of the lining of small bowel is required, the part of digestive tract which can not be assessed with gastroscopy or colonoscopy.

The common indications are:

• Unexplained iron deficiency anaemia - to exclude blood loss from small bowel

• Crohn's disease: To look for inflammation or ulcers in small bowel

After a period of fasting, you will swallow the imaging capsule with a glass of water at our clinic. You then wear a small recording device on a belt for about eight hours while you go about your day. The capsule travels naturally through your gut, transmitting images to the recorder, and is eventually passed out of your body during a bowel movement. You do not need to retrieve the capsule endoscope. Simply return back the recording device back to the clinic next day. The device is then plugged in to computer, where a specialist analyses the data thoroughly.

Yes. To ensure the camera gets clear images, your small bowel must be empty. This usually involves a liquid-only diet the day before, with a light bowel preparation and a brief fast. Unlike a colonoscopy, the preparation is typically much lighter, and no sedation is required, so you can drive yourself to and from the appointment.

Capsule endoscopy is very safe. The main (although rare) risk is "capsule retention," where the pill becomes stuck in a narrowed part of the bowel. We will review your medical history—including any previous surgeries or known obstructions—to ensure this is the right diagnostic path for you.