Capsule Endoscopy (PillCam)
A Non-Invasive Way to Examine Your Digestive Tract
Tummy troubles or unexplained symptoms can leave you curious about what’s going on inside. At South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopy clinic in Melbourne, a Capsule Endoscopy (PillCam) is an easy, pain-free way to take a close look at your digestive system. Let’s explain what it is, when it’s needed, and how we make it hassle-free for you.
What is a Capsule Endoscopy?
A Capsule Endoscopy, also called a PillCam, uses a tiny, swallowable capsule with a built-in camera to snap thousands of pictures of your digestive tract, especially the small intestine. It’s a clever, non-invasive test that spots things other procedures, like a gastroscopy or colonoscopy, might miss.
With Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne, We can check for issues in hard-to-reach areas, and since it’s just a capsule you swallow, there’s no need for sedation or a hospital stay. You’re usually done in a day and back to your normal routine.
How We Support You
At South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopy clinic, we’re here to make your Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne simple and stress-free. Here’s what you can expect:
Careful Check First
We review your symptoms and health to make sure the PillCam is safe and right for you, checking for things like bowel narrowing.
Easy to Swallow
You’ll swallow a small capsule, about the size of a vitamin pill, and wear a device to record the images. Then you’re free to go about your day.
Clear Results
After the capsule does its job, We analyses the pictures and explains what they mean, helping you plan the next steps.
Full Process of Capsule Endoscopy
The day before your Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne at South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopyclinic, have a light breakfast and lunch (like poached eggs or steamed chicken). After 1pm, drink only clear fluids (water, clear broth, apple juice, black tea) and aim for 12–15 glasses to stay hydrated and clear your bowel. Avoid red or purple drinks; sugar or clear jelly is fine.
On the day of Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne, don’t eat or drink, except a sip of water with essential meds, and skip meds 2 hours before. Wear loose, two-piece clothes. At our clinic, we’ll fit a SensorArray belt and Data Recorder around your waist, then you’ll swallow the capsule with water and leave.
After swallowing, check the blue light on the Data Recorder every 15–30 minutes. If it stops flashing, note the time and call (03) 9885 8100. Wait 2 hours to drink clear fluids and 4 hours for a light meal or meds. Avoid exercise, heavy lifting, MRIs, radio transmitters, or big shopping centres, but you can walk or use your phone.
Return around 4:30pm (after 6–8 hours) to remove the equipment, then eat normally. The capsule passes in your poo within 24–72 hours and can be flushed. If it doesn’t pass in 7 days, call us. Results take about a week, and we’ll notify your doctor. Call if you feel pain or nausea.
Book Your Capsule Endoscopy Today
Don’t let tummy issues keep you guessing. A Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne with South East Gastroenterology & Endoscopy clinic can give you clear answers to feel better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne? Click below to learn more:
Can the Capsule Get Stuck?
With Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne, the capsule is designed to pass through your system naturally, but in rare cases, it could get caught if there’s a narrow spot in your bowel. We check for risks like this beforehand, and Dr Desmond will explain how we handle it to keep you safe.
Do I Need Sedation or Fasting?
Good news—no sedation is needed for a Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne because it’s just a capsule you swallow! You will need to fast (no food or drink) for a few hours and might have a clear liquid diet the day before. We’ll send you simple prep steps.
How Long Does It Take?
The Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne process is easy. Swallowing the capsule takes a moment, and it records images for about 8 hours while you go about your day. You’ll drop off the recorder afterwards, and we’ll take it from there to review the results.
Is It Covered by Medicare or Insurance?
Whether Capsule Endoscopy Melbourne is covered depends on your situation. Medicare or private health insurance often helps with costs, especially if it’s medically needed. Our team can guide you on what to check with your provider.
