SmartPill is an Innovative Therapeutic Option for GI Conditions

The Center for Neurogastroenterology and GI Motility at Mercy provides advanced diagnostic tests and therapies for many digestive-related conditions that tend to be difficult to properly diagnose and treat. Gastroenterologists at Mercy use the SmartPill as an innovative therapeutic option for patients experiencing many different GI conditions.

What is SmartPill?

SmartPill is a specially designed capsule that allows physicians to monitor PH and pressure throughout the entire GI tract. These measurements can be used by your physician to calculate regional transit times to understand the underlying cause of symptoms such as nausea, bloating, heartburn, constipation and an early feeling of fullness when eating. These symptoms can indicate motility disorders such as gastroparesis and chronic constipation.

How does SmartPill work?

SmartPill travels through your GI tract and collects pressure, PH and temperature data. After the capsule ingestion, a data receiver, worn on a belt or lanyard, records information collected by the capsule. The data is downloaded to a computer, providing your physician with the GI transit information to evaluate your stomach, small bowel and colon. Your office visit will be approximately 30 minutes and does not expose you to radiation. You will naturally pass the pill in a few days and return to our offices for follow-up.

When is SmartPill used?

SmartPill can help a physician rule out a variety of digestive issues. The biggest benefit to SmartPill is that it measures all three sections of your intestine in one test. The SmartPill does not work for patients with a history of strictures in the intestines, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease or a pacemaker on the heart or other organs.