How long does the capsule endoscopy procedure take?

The capsule endoscopy procedure takes about eight hours, according to Massachusetts General Hospital. Patients are not confined to the hospital during this period, but they are required to wear the data recording belt.

At the beginning of a capsule endoscopy, the patient swallows a tiny video camera, explains the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. The camera photographs the small intestine as it passes through the organ. A sensor device worn on a belt collects the images, which the doctor examines later. After about eight hours, the camera leaves the body through a bowel movement. Capsule endoscopies help explore several conditions, such as bleeding within the small intestines, polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers and tumors.