Capsule Endoscopy

Medically written by
A/Prof Viraj Kariyawasam
MBBS, FRACP, MRCP, PhD
Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist
Associate Professor – Macquarie University
Head of IBD Service – Blacktown Hospital
Last reviewed: March 2026

1. What is Capsule Endoscopy?

Capsule endoscopy is a specialised test used to examine the small intestine, an area of the bowel that cannot be fully assessed with standard gastroscopy or colonoscopy. It involves swallowing a small capsule, about the size of a large vitamin tablet, which contains a tiny camera.

As the capsule travels naturally through the digestive tract, it takes thousands of images that are transmitted to a recorder worn on a belt. Capsule endoscopy is commonly used to investigate unexplained bleeding, suspected Crohn’s disease, iron deficiency anaemia, or small bowel abnormalities.

2. What Happens During Capsule Endoscopy?

Before the procedure, you may be asked to fast and sometimes take a bowel preparation to improve image quality. On the day of the test, sensors are placed on your abdomen and connected to a recording device.

You swallow the capsule with water and can then leave the clinic and continue most normal activities. The capsule passes naturally through the bowel over 8 to 12 hours and is passed painlessly in the stool. It does not need to be retrieved.

3. Recovering From Capsule Endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy does not involve sedation, so recovery is immediate. You can usually eat and drink later the same day, following your doctor’s instructions.

The images are reviewed by your gastroenterologist, and results are discussed at follow-up. Further tests or treatment may be recommended depending on the findings.

4. Risks of Capsule Endoscopy

Capsule endoscopy is very safe. The main risk is capsule retention, where the capsule becomes stuck in a narrowed area of bowel. This is uncommon but more likely in people with known Crohn’s disease, previous bowel surgery, or strictures.

If there is concern about narrowing, a dissolvable test capsule or imaging may be performed first. Seek medical advice if you develop abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting after the procedure.