University Gastroenterology’s Virginia Pierce, MS, FNP, explains that a capsule endoscopy is used to examine the small intestine, an area not reachable by traditional upper endoscopy or colonoscopy. This pill-sized camera captures 360-degree images as it travels through the digestive tract, helping diagnose issues like bleeding, Crohn’s disease, or genetic conditions like FAP. Preparation varies by provider and system, and while most capsules pass naturally in the stool, some require retrieval. If the capsule gets stuck, it can indicate the underlying problem.