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Video Capsule Endoscopy Prep

Video Capsule Endoscopy Prep Explained

Capsule endoscopy is a test that uses a swallowable video capsule to take images of the small intestine as it moves naturally through the digestive tract. The study does not require sedation or a traditional scope, and proper preparation helps ensure clear images and accurate results.

Important Things to Know

  • If you have a pacemaker, internal defibrillator, or other implanted medical device, please let us know before you start your preparation for the capsule.
  • If you have any swallowing difficulties, please let us know.
  • Plan on being at the clinic for 30 minutes for capsule ingestion. You will need to return to the clinic by 4 PM.

Timing & Schedule

Preparation follows a short, structured timeline leading up to the day of your test. You’ll make medication and diet adjustments in advance, fast before swallowing the capsule, and gradually resume normal intake afterward. Detailed instructions and exact timing are provided below.

Instructions:
Step 1.
5 Days Before Your Procedure
  • Stop taking oral iron supplements.
Step 2.
Day Before Your Procedure
  • You may eat a normal breakfast completed by 10 AM followed by a clear liquid diet the rest of the day. Please avoid red liquids. Some examples of clear liquids are apple juice, soda, coffee, tea, beef or chicken broth, Jell-O, Gatorade, or plain water. Please do not eat any solid food after 10 AM.
  • Nothing by mouth including water and medication after midnight, the night prior to your exam.
Step 3.
Day of Your Procedure
  • Nothing by mouth (liquid or food)
  • Wear 2-piece loose-fitting clothing made of thin natural fabric (i.e., cotton T-shirt) no one-piece outfits or dresses. NO tops made of synthetic fabric including spandex. Please leave jewelry and necklaces at home.
  • You will be allowed to have water & medications 4 hours AFTER ingesting capsule. (i.e., 12:00 PM)
  • You may eat a regular lunch at 2:00 PM.
  • Return to the Endoscopy Center later in the day to have capsule equipment removed between 3:30 PM and 4 PM.
Step 4.
After Swallowing the Capsule
  • Be careful not to disconnect the system as this may result in premature termination of the procedure. Be sure the SensorBelt is tight at the waist. Do not attach anything to it.
  • Check the blue flashing Datarecorder light every 15 minutes to be sure it is blinking twice per second. If it stops blinking or changes color, note the time and call the Endoscopy Center at (208) 343-6458.
  • Do not get the system wet, no bathing or sponge baths.
  • Avoid vigorous physical activity such as running or jumping during the study.
  • Avoid being around MRI equipment, amateur (ham) radio, or other strong electromagnetic equipment until capsule is expelled, usually about 3 days. The capsule may be flushed down the toilet.
  • Normally, the capsule is expelled in the feces. It is safe to flush the capsule down the toilet. If you are concerned that you have not passed the capsule within 3-7 days or have symptoms of obstruction such as vomiting, please contact our office.
Step 5.
Late Afternoon
  • Return to the Endoscopy Center between about 3:30–4:00 p.m. to have the sensor belt and recorder removed.
Take Aways
Additional Details
Medication:
  • Stop oral iron supplements 5 days before your procedure.
  • The night before and morning of the test, follow the “nothing by mouth after midnight” rule unless you have written instructions for essential medications.
  • You may have water and take medications 4 hours after swallowing the capsule—for example, around noon for a 7:15 a.m. start time.
  • Contact your Idaho Gastro team if you have questions about specific medications.
  • We cannot be responsible for your valuables (watches or various jewelry items). Please leave them at home.
  • Bring all insurance cards and a photo ID with you. Please check with your insurance company regarding prior authorization.
  • Fee for services is required at time of check-in. Please be prepared to make a payment.
  • IGA recognizes that your time is valuable, and so is ours. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, please do so more than 48 business hours prior to your scheduled appointment arrival time at 208-343-6458. Late cancellations and no shows may be assessed a $200 fee.
This summary is based on Idaho Gastroenterology’s Video Capsule Endoscopy prep instructions and is for education only. Always follow the exact written instructions you receive for your specific capsule endoscopy date, and call the office if anything is unclear or your health changes before the test.

Supplies Needed

Clear liquids for the day before
Comfortable, two-piece cotton clothing

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Information on this website is for education only and not a substitute for medical advice.

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