Video capsule endoscopy

Video capsule endoscopy (VCE) is an advanced diagnostic procedure used to capture wireless images of the small intestine’s inner lining. This technology has become increasingly popular, particularly among paediatric patients. The capsule itself is 24.5mm long and 10.8mm wide and can either be swallowed by older children or introduced using a gastroscope in younger patients. It operates by capturing three images per second.

We are located at Charlwood, West Sussex, making us easily accessible to treat children near Crawley, Worthing, Chichester, Waterlooville, Havant, Portsmouth, Brighton, Dorking, Surrey, London and all nearby areas.

The primary goal of VCE is to visualize and assess the mucosal surface of the small bowel, which complements traditional diagnostic methods by enabling the identification of abnormalities.

Key indications for Video Capsule Endoscopy include:

  • Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (e.g., from angioectasia, Meckel’s diverticulum, or NSAIDs)
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Polyps associated with conditions such as Peutz-Jeghers Syndrome and Familial adenomatous polyposis
  • Intestinal lymphangiectasia

Video Capsule Endoscopy is generally considered safe. However, there is a small risk (less than 1%) of capsule retention, where the capsule may not pass naturally and could require surgical intervention for removal.

We are located at Charlwood, West Sussex, making us easily accessible to treat children near Crawley, Worthing, Chichester, Waterlooville, Havant, Portsmouth, Brighton, Dorking, Surrey, London and all nearby areas.

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