GI Lab FAQs - GI Lab - Vidalia Medical Associates

Q: What is Video Capsule Endoscopy (VCE)?: A: A miniature high-resolution camera is propelled through the gastrointestinal tract allowing the examination of the small intestine, which is difficult to visualize by other conventional techniques. (i.e. soft, push enterscopy, etc.)
Q:How does Video Capsule Endoscopy Work?: A: VCE has 4 main components. The capsule, eight sensors, a data recorder and a computer workstation. The capsule contains a color camera, six light-emitting diodes, a radio transmitter, an antenna, and two batteries. It measures only 11 x 23 mm. Propelled by peristalsis through the GI tract, the capsule takes two high-quality video images per second. These images are transmitted to the sensors, which are connected to the data recorder. The stored images on the data recorder are downloaded to the computer workstation, which can display the images as a video film for the providers’ interpretation.
Q: What is PillCam Endoscopy?: A: The PillCam video capsule is specifically designed to view the inner lining of the Esophagus.
Q: How does PillCam Endoscopy Work?: A: Three sensor arrays are placed on the patient’s chest and connected to a data recorder, worn on a belt around the waist. The patient swallows the capsule. The PillCam travels through the esophagus by normal peristaltic waves, flashing 14 times per second, each time capturing images of the inner lining of the esophagus. These images are transmitted to the sensor arrays then travel from the sensor to the Data recorder. Once all equipment is removed from the patient, the portable data recorder downloads the video images to a designated workstation from which the physician views and assesses the results for recommended patient treatment.
Q:What is the Hydrogen Breath Test (HBT)?: A: Hydrogen breath test uses the measurement of hydrogen in the breath to diagnose medical conditions that cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea or bloating. In humans, only bacteria in the colon are capable of producing hydrogen. This means that a large amount of hydrogen in the breath may indicate that the small intestine allowed more unabsorbed food to reach the colon. Positive test findings may indicate an abnormal absorption of food. .
Q: What are Esophageal Manometry and 24 Hour Ambulatory pH Testing?: A: Esophageal Manometry measures the motility and function of the esophagus and esophageal sphincter. The manometry test is a tool used to help evaluate swallowing disorders. Esophageal manometry is a test to measure the motor action of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and esophageal body. A catheter is used to measure esophageal pressure and records the duration and sequence of contractions in the esophagus. 24 Hour Ambulatory pH Testing pH is a term used to describe the degree of acidity in the stomach and esophagus. Persons with excessive heartburn often have too much acid backing up into the esophagus. pH testing can confirm this and help guide therapy. .