PillCam is a patient-friendly, small bowel visualisation system which is carried out using an ingestible capsule the size of a vitamin.

If you suffer from gastrointestinal (GI) bleding, Chron's disease or iron deficiency anemia, your doctor may need to see inside your bowel to evaluate your condition. With the PillCam system, this is done with a small ingestible capsule.

The PillCam capsule contains a tiny light and camera which takes images of the inside of your small intestine as it travels naturally through your digestive tract. These images are then transmitted to a recorder via sensors either placed on your stomach or in a sensor belt that your wear strapped across your body.

When it comes to preparing for your PillCam procedure, there are a few things that you'll need to do beforehand:

Food and drink

Having a empty stomach is optimal for viewing. You may be asked to follow a clear liquid diet after lunch the day before the procedure and you may need to fast beforehand too. Your doctor will provide you with more instructions.

Medications

Make sure you tell your doctor in advance about any medications that you take regularly as you may need to adjust your dose for the procedure. However, you should speak to your doctor before making any changes to your medications.

Medical history

Inform your doctor of your medical history, including:

    • A pacemaker or other electro-medical devices
    • Any previous abdominal surgery
    • Difficulty swallowing

There is no sedation needed for this procedure, so once you swallow the PillCam you can go about your activities as normal. You won't be able to eat for up to four hours after the capsule ingestion, unless your doctor instructs otherwise. At the end of the procedure, the recorder and sensors will be removed and returned to your doctor.