Small bowel capsule endoscopy enables physicians to examine the entire human small intestine that conventional upper endoscopy, enteroscopy, and colonoscopy cannot be reached. This can be done by having a patient swallowing a multi-vitamin sized capsule that captures 2-3 images per second. The procedure is done without the need for general anesthesia or surgery and is used by physicians for detecting and diagnosing small intestinal disorders such as obscure gastrointestinal bleeding, Crohn’s disease, small bowel tumors, and Celiac disease.
Small Bowel Capsules, PillCam SB or Olympus SB capsule, were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2001.
Reimbursement
The Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy procedure is covered by Medicare in every states of the USA. That’s why almost all of the insurance carriers such as Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Aetna, and etc. also accept and cover this medical procedure in appropriate case. As with any medical procedure, it is advisable that you contact your insurance carriers to make sure if this service is covered.
Possible Complications of Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy procedure
Complications are rare. However, a potential risk includes retention of the capsule. Early signs of capsule retention include fever, trouble swallowing, chest or abdominal pain, and nausea.