Capsule Endoscopy Preparation Instructions

Capsule endoscopy, also called a PillCam procedure, uses a small, swallowable capsule with a tiny camera inside to evaluate the small intestine, an area that cannot be easily reached with standard upper endoscopy or colonoscopy. As the capsule travels naturally through your digestive tract, it transmits images to a recording device worn during the day.

• Sedation is usually not required for a capsule endoscopy.
• You will wear a recording vest and monitor throughout the day while the capsule captures images.
• The capsule is disposable and passes naturally in a bowel movement, typically within 24 to 48 hours.

• Do not smoke for at least 12 hours before your procedure.
• Beginning at noon, start a clear liquid diet: no solid food for the rest of the day.
• Between noon and 5:00 PM, drink at least 32 ounces of water or Gatorade to stay well hydrated.
• Avoid all red, blue, or purple liquids, as these colors can interfere with the images.
• Take your evening medications with a small sip of water.

Approved clear liquids

• Water
• Chicken or beef broth
• Apple juice
• Lemonade without pulp
• Tea
• Black coffee (no cream or milk)

• Do not take any morning medications before arriving for your procedure.
• Wear loose, comfortable, two-piece clothing.
• You will wear the recording vest and monitor for approximately 10 to 15 hours.
• For the first 2 hours after swallowing the capsule, do not eat or drink anything.
• Walk and stay active throughout the day, especially during the first 2 hours, to help the capsule move through your digestive tract.

Follow this timeline once you have swallowed the capsule. The hours below are counted from the time you swallow it.

• First 2 hours: Do not eat or drink anything.
• After 2 hours: You may have clear liquids only, and resume your medications if appropriate.
• After 4 hours: You may have a light lunch, such as half a sandwich, hard-boiled eggs, or avocado toast. Continue to avoid red, blue, or purple foods and drinks.
• After 8 hours: You may return to your normal diet unless otherwise instructed by our office.
• Before bed: Remove the recording vest and monitor right before bed and set the equipment aside. Return the equipment to our office the following morning.

• Return the recording equipment to our office no later than 10:00 AM the morning after your procedure.
• Do not have an MRI for 2 weeks after your procedure unless your physician confirms the capsule has passed.
• Contact your physician immediately if you experience abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
• To reach our office, call (682) 400-2153 or email spudhota@summitgastroenterology.com.

Most patients complete the capsule endoscopy without difficulty. However, please contact your physician immediately if you experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or symptoms that feel unusual or concerning, or if you have difficulty passing the capsule.

You can reach our office at (682) 400-2153. If your symptoms feel urgent or life-threatening, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

After the equipment is returned, the images recorded by the capsule are reviewed by the physician. The office will provide follow-up instructions or next steps based on the results.