Capsule endoscopy, also known as capsule enteroscopy, is a noninvasive diagnostic tool used to visualize the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It involves swallowing a small, vitamin-pill-sized capsule that contains a tiny camera, a light source, a transmitter, and a power source. As the capsule moves through the digestive system, it takes thousands of pictures, which are transmitted to a recorder worn outside the body. These images are later downloaded and compiled into a video, allowing doctors to identify and diagnose conditions such as Crohn's disease, GI bleeding, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, colon polyps, and colon and rectal cancer. The procedure is particularly useful for examining the small intestine, which is difficult to reach with traditional endoscopy methods​​.

The capsule typically takes about eight hours to travel through the body and can capture over 50,000 images. Patients do not feel the capsule as it passes and can go about most of their daily activities. However, they are advised to avoid strenuous exercise, MRI machines, and strong magnetic fields until the capsule is excreted. The main risk associated with capsule endoscopy is the capsule becoming lodged in the digestive tract, particularly in people with bowel strictures or Crohn's disease​​.

There are several types of capsule endoscopy, differing in the number of cameras, image quality, recording time, battery life, and data transmission methods. Some capsules store data internally and must be retrieved after passage, while others transmit data externally and do not need to be recovered​​.

Preparing for a capsule endoscopy involves several steps, such as fasting, drinking clear liquids, taking a laxative to clear the digestive tract, and possibly shaving an area of the body to attach sensors. During the procedure, sensors are attached to the body to receive data from the capsule, and a recorder is worn to store this data​​.

Several companies are key players in the capsule endoscopy market. Chongqing Jinshan Science & Technology, based in China, holds a significant share of the market in China and has expanded internationally. Given Imaging, now part of Covidien, is known for developing the PillCam COLON. IntroMedic offers the MicroCam, known for its wide field of view and high-resolution images. Olympus, originally a microscope and thermometer company, now provides a variety of medical devices, including capsule endoscopy systems​​.