How to Get a Capsule Endoscopy Test for Crohn's Disease
A capsule endoscopy test for Crohn’s disease will confirm diagnosis in situations where traditional testing fails. The procedure takes pictures of the digestive tract using a small camera inserted in a capsule and swallowed by the patient. A data recorder on the patient receives these transmitted images for analysis of suspected polyps and cancerous tumors.
What you will need:
- Gastroenterolist
- Insurance authorization
- Accompanying family member or friend
- Discuss the possibility of having a video capsule endoscopy with your gastroenterologist.
- Speak with your insurance company to get authorization for the procedure.
- Seek alternative funding options such as payment plan options from your doctor or the medical center, should your insurance company not approve the expensive cutting edge procedure.
- Make an appointment for the initial procedure. Arrange for a friend or family member to accompany you when you go to the doctor’s office to swallow the imaging capsule. You may receive sedation and must not drive.
- Prepare for the procedure a week before its schedule. Avoid taking vitamins a week before and start a liquid diet 24 hours prior to the procedure. Suggested permitted liquids 1 day prior to the procedure include clear juices, coffee, black tea and broth. You should take no food or drink after midnight prior to the procedure.
- Attend on the day of the video capsule endoscopy procedure with insurance authorization and complete the needed paperwork.
- Swallow the capsule and have it attached to the data recorder on your abdomen. Wear this equipment and a battery pack for 8 hours after the completed procedure.
- Eat and drink nothing for 2 hours following the procedure. After that time, you can consume clear liquids and after another 4 hours you may consume a light meal.
- Go to the medical center 8 hours following the procedure for removal of the data receiver and sensors. The capsule will pass out in a bowel movement after a few days.