Instructions during your PillCam procedure
Information for patients from the Alternative Pathways Unit
The Alternative Pathways Unit is an NHS service provided by East Kent Hospitals. It is designed to give patients an alternative to a traditional endoscopy.
What is a PillCam procedure?
A PillCam procedure (commonly known as capsule endoscopy) is a minimally invasive test. It allows clinicians to look inside your bowels, using a swallowed camera capsule rather than a conventional endoscope. It is widely used in the NHS.
During your appointment you were fitted with a sensor belt and an attached recorder.
You took a small camera pill, that will travel down your large bowel. The camera will record images and upload them to the recorder.
To make sure the camera is passed through your bowel in due time, we have given you medication to take home. You must take this medication when instructed by the recorder (see instruction guide below).
You must bring the recorder back to the hospital the next day, as instructed by your nurse.
The capsule will naturally pass, and can be flushed down the toilet.
If you have any questions, please contact the Alternative Pathways Unit on 01304 222558.
What should I do when the recorder beeps and vibrates?
When the recorder beeps and vibrates, check the number on the recorder screen. Follow the matching instructions in the Instruction guide below.
If you have any questions, please contact:
Alternative Pathways Service (Monday to Friday; 8am to 6pm)
Telephone: 01304 222558
What happens during the procedure?
Throughout the procedure, record any events on the paper form we gave you.
Do not remove or disconnect the equipment at any time.
Avoid direct sunlight on the equipment.
Avoid getting the equipment wet.
Avoid strong electromagnetic fields, such as MRI devices.
Remain active throughout your exam. Do not lie down or sleep.
If you knock it and damage the recorder, this may lead to failure of the procedure. If this happens, please contact the Alternative Pathways Unit.
If an error message comes up, please contact the Alternative Pathways Unit.
Warning:
Please contact Alternative Pathways Unit, if you:
have abdominal (tummy) pain
start being sick
In case of an adverse reaction, go to your nearest Emergency Department.
Instruction guide
How do I remove the equipment?
When End of Procedure appears on the recorder, sit down. Carefully remove the equipment from your body.
Return all equipment (recorder, recorder pouch and sensor belt) to the hospital as instructed by the nurse. Handle the equipment carefully.