About the same size as a paracetamol capsule.
About the same size as a paracetamol capsule.
It is a soft sponge about the size of a 50 pence coin.
The water makes it easier to swallow the capsule and string. You may gag when the nurse pulls the sponge out, but it will only take a second or two.
Most people prefer not to have a numbing spray, but this is available if you would like to have it.
This is extremely unlikely. However, if it does, the sponge will stay in the stomach, which is harmless. We will arrange for you to have an endoscopy the same day to remove the sponge.
During the procedure, some people experience discomfort by the thread at the back of their throat. Retrieving the Cytosponge is uncomfortable, but very brief. You might have a sore throat for a few hours after the procedure, which can be soothed with a sweet or lozenge.
We will ask you to not eat or drink for 4 hours before the test. If you take any medication that acts to thin your blood, we will ask you to temporarily stop this prior to the procedure, based on advice from your doctor. After the test, you will be able to continue with your day as normal.