A capsule endoscopy, also known as a PillCam, is a tiny camera you swallow that travels through your entire digestive system and takes over 60 thousand images to aid doctors in diagnosing any abnormalities. As a result, those who don’t know they’re living with bowel issues, like Crohn’s disease, can benefit from this procedure.
Capsule Endoscopy VS Traditional Endoscopy/Colonoscopy
As a successful colonoscopy Beverly Hills doctor, Dr. Berookim knows the advantages and disadvantages of the less invasive capsule endoscopy. The advantages of the capsule endoscopy are so great that Dr. Berookim offers the procedure in his office.
Capsule Endoscopy/Colonoscopy
- No pre-procedure diet modification
- Fasting period is up to 8 hours before the procedure
- No sedation or recovery period
- Minimally invasive
- Allows your doctor to see the small intestine, unlike a traditional endoscopy or colonoscopy Beverly Hills
- Can continue regular tasks during the procedure
- Must return back to office after 24-48 hours for results
Traditional Endoscopy/Colonoscopy
- Pre-procedure diet modification for 5 days
- Fasting period is up to 10 hours before the procedure
- Results in an endoscope/colonoscope to enter through your mouth/anus
- Sedation is required, recovery period can take up to a few days after the procedure
- The night before the procedure you must take laxatives
- Procedure can last up to 3 hours
- Don’t have to return back to office for test results
- Biopsies can be performed during procedure
Possible Disadvantages
Capsule Endoscopy/Colonoscopy
- Retention – it is possible for the capsule to stay in your digestive system for more than 2 weeks.
- Aspiration – although rare, it is possible for the capsule to enter your airway instead of your esophagus; resulting in a very serious issue.
- Skin Irritation – small chance of mild redness; treat with topical medication
- Biopsies are not performed during the procedure
Traditional Endoscopy/Colonoscopy
- Can puncture intestines, colon, stomach lining, or esophagus
- Can dehydrate
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Side effects of sedation
- Must have someone pick you up from the procedure
- Invasive
Now you can decide whether a capsule endoscopy, traditional endoscopy or colonoscopy Beverly Hills is better for you.
For more information about a capsule endoscopy, click here.
For more information about a traditional colonoscopy, click here.
About Dr. Peyton P. Berookim
Dr. Berookim is a highly-rated colonoscopy Beverly Hills specialist due to his countless affirming reviews about his patients’ satisfaction. For more health advice about gastroenterology topics, follow him on Twitter or Facebook.
