Wireless Capsule Endoscopy — Advanced Luminal Visualization
Capsule Endoscopy utilizes a miniaturized, ingestible CMOS camera to visualize the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, particularly the Small Intestine, which is traditionally difficult to reach via standard gastroscopy or colonoscopy.
Hardware Architecture: The modern capsule contains an LED light source, an ultra-wide-angle lens, a radiofrequency (RF) transmitter, and an internal battery with an 8–12 hour lifespan.
Operational Protocol: As the capsule moves via natural peristalsis, it captures images at a rate of 2 to 6 frames per second. In 2026, many devices use adaptive frame rates, where the capsule slows its image capture in the stomach and accelerates when it detects movement in the small bowel to preserve battery life.
A significant safety innovation is the Patency Capsule. Before administering the live video capsule, patients at risk for bowel obstructions ingest a dissolvable "dummy" capsule. If the dummy passes intact or dissolves, it confirms the GI tract is clear enough for the diagnostic camera to travel safely.