Beyond Med Leipzig
Capsule endoscopy
Non-invasive examination of the gastrointestinal tract - without tube, sedation or radiation exposure.
- method
- Swallowable video capsule
- Burden
- Without tube and sedation
- Everyday
- Largely freely movable
- Evaluation
- Medical report in the practice
What is it about?
Modern examination of the gastrointestinal tract
With capsule endoscopy, our practice offers a modern method for examining the gastrointestinal tract – without a tube, sedation or radiation exposure.
The test is carried out using a swallowable capsule – about the size of a vitamin tablet. The images are transmitted wirelessly to a small recording device that you can easily carry with you throughout the day.
The method is suitable for investigating unexplained abdominal pain, unexplained iron deficiency or suspected inflammatory bowel disease – especially when conventional endoscopy is contraindicated or patients prefer not to undergo conventional endoscopy.
Examine gently. Gain clarity. Decide together.
Advantages
Advantages of capsule endoscopy
Gentle examination
No examination with a tube, no sedation and no X-ray exposure. The capsule is simply swallowed.
Detailed imaging
Depending on the medical issue, high-resolution images of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine can be created.
Outpatient and suitable for everyday use
During the examination you can move freely and largely go about your usual everyday life.
Non-invasive procedure
The examination is carried out without the introduction of an endoscope.
Sequence
Process of the investigation
From preparation to returning the recording device – step by step.
- 01
Personal preliminary discussion
Discussion of the examination, possible contraindications and the necessary preparation.
- 02
Preparation
In order to optimally assess the gastrointestinal tract, preparation takes place the evening of the previous day with a special laxative preparation.
- 03
Examination day
The capsule is swallowed in our practice. The recording device is then fitted.
- 04
During the investigation
You can move freely and largely go about your usual everyday life.
- 05
Supporting intestinal transit
After about 2 hours, another drinking solution is taken.
- 06
food intake
You can eat normally again about 5 hours after taking the capsule.
- 07
Return of the recording device
The recording device will be returned to our practice the following day.
orientation
When capsule endoscopy may be considered
- Unexplained abdominal pain
- Unclear iron deficiency
- Assessment of suspected inflammatory bowel disease
- When conventional endoscopy is contraindicated or not desired
A notice: Capsule endoscopy is a diagnostic examination procedure and cannot completely replace conventional endoscopy in all cases. Tissue samples cannot be taken and therapeutic interventions, such as the removal of polyps, cannot be carried out. Whether capsule endoscopy is the appropriate examination method in your individual case or whether a supplementary or conventional endoscopy is necessary will be assessed by a doctor in advance in a personal consultation.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about capsule endoscopy
What is capsule endoscopy?
In video capsule endoscopy, you swallow a small capsule with one or two cameras. It records HD images on its way through the gastrointestinal tract. The examination is non-invasive and does not require a conventional endoscope tube.
Does capsule endoscopy replace a conventional colonoscopy?
No, not in general and not as a blanket replacement. The two methods have different areas of use and limitations. Which examination is suitable in your case is decided solely by the doctor in a personal consultation – not by the website or a self-test.
Who is capsule endoscopy suitable for?
Only if, in the doctor's assessment, the method fits your question and situation. There are a number of indications for which capsule endoscopy is useful. We discuss possible limitations, alternatives and preparation during the appointment. Suitability cannot be determined online.
Do I need to be sedated?
Unlike some tube-based endoscopies, capsule endoscopy does not require sedation. We will explain individually in advance which preparation (e.g. a bowel-cleansing drink) is needed and which instructions apply to you.
Is there any radiation exposure?
Video capsule endoscopy is not an X-ray examination. The capsule's images are transmitted via Bluetooth.
What are the risks?
Capsule endoscopy is considered low-risk. Rarely, the capsule can get stuck at a narrowing of the bowel and may then need to be removed endoscopically or surgically. We therefore check exclusion criteria beforehand, e.g. known or suspected narrowings, swallowing disorders or implanted electronic devices (according to the manufacturer). Preparation usually involves a laxative drinking solution.
What happens on the day of the examination?
After the preparation we have explained to you in advance, you swallow the capsule. The recording is painless and runs for several hours. We will give you specific instructions for the day of the examination.
What does capsule endoscopy cost?
Billing is based on the German fee schedule for doctors (GOÄ). Actual amounts depend on the individual scope and therefore cannot be stated as a flat rate online. We are happy to give you a non-binding estimate before your appointment, in person or by phone.
Will my private health insurance pay?
Whether and to what extent costs are reimbursed depends solely on your insurance contract and the terms of your plan. We issue a transparent invoice according to the GOÄ. We cannot guarantee reimbursement.
How do I book an appointment?
Via Doctolib, by phone (0341 96273770) or by email (my@beyondpraxis.de) at the Beyond Med private practice, Burgplatz 2, Leipzig.
Self-test
How healthy does your gut appear?
Orientation self-test on lifestyle and gut health – not a diagnosis.
Contact & appointment
We are here for you.
In the preliminary consultation, we will clarify whether capsule endoscopy is suitable for your problem - and what the process looks like in practice.
- phone0341 – 96273770
- e-mailmy@beyondpraxis.de
- PracticeBurgplatz 2, Leipzig
Opening hours: Mon–Thu 09:00–14:30
Appointment
Fastest online
Choose your desired date via Doctolib – we look forward to seeing you in the practice at Burgplatz.
Book online or call: 0341 – 96273770Send a message
A few lines are enough – we will get back to you personally.