Capsule Endoscopy Protocol: Comprehensive Procedure Guide

Pre-Procedure Requirements

Patient Preparation

• Clear liquid diet starting 24 hours before procedure
• NPO after midnight
• Hold medications as indicated:
  • Iron supplements (7 days prior)
  • Antacids and carafate (24 hours prior)
  • Prokinetics (48 hours prior)

Equipment Verification

• Capsule endoscope
• Data recorder
• Sensor array/belt
• Recording software
• Battery check

Procedure Steps

1. Initial Setup

1. Verify patient identity and consent
2. Review contraindications:
   • Known strictures
   • Pregnancy
   • Swallowing difficulties
3. Apply sensor array/belt to patient
4. Initialize recording system

2. Capsule Administration

1. Activate capsule
2. Confirm LED activation
3. Patient swallows capsule with water
4. Verify initial image acquisition

3. Monitoring Phase

• Duration: 8-12 hours
• Patient instructions:
  • Avoid vigorous activity
  • Resume clear liquids after 2 hours
  • Light meal after 4 hours
  • Document symptoms

4. Study Completion

1. Remove recording equipment
2. Download and save data
3. Verify image quality
4. Document capsule passage

Post-Procedure Care

Patient Instructions

• Monitor for capsule passage
• Resume normal diet
• Avoid MRI until capsule passage confirmed

Documentation Requirements

1. Procedure notes
2. Technical parameters
3. Patient tolerance
4. Follow-up plan

Quality Metrics

• Small bowel visualization >80%
• Complete small bowel transit
• Adequate battery life
• Image quality assessment

Troubleshooting

Common Issues

1. Signal loss
2. Poor image quality
3. Delayed transit
4. Equipment malfunction

Resolution Steps

• Check sensor placement
• Verify battery status
• Assess patient position
• Technical support contact