SITZMARKS colon transit test (1513)

Key points below


What is a colon transit test?

A transit test tells the doctor how the colon is working. The Sitzmarks capsule holds 24 small plastic rings in a gelatin capsule that is easy to swallow. If your child cannot swallow the capsule, it can be opened. The capsule and rings will pass naturally through your child’s intestines just like food does. It will help diagnose severe constipation or other colon disorders.

How is the test done?

You will get the Sitzmarks capsules at the time of your appointment.Capsule

The healthcare provider will tell you:

If your child can not swallow the capsule, open it and mix the rings in a spoonful of yogurt or applesauce. Check to make sure that all of the rings have been swallowed if the capsule was opened. Sometimes a few rings can hide in the side of a child’s mouth by the teeth, or under the tongue. The rings should not be chewed. 

You will be told to do one of the Sitzmarks Methods:

After an x-ray, the doctor will count the number of rings, if any, that are still in your child’s intestines. This will help the doctor to decide the type of condition that your child has and how to treat it. If some of the rings are not swallowed, the test may not be correct.

Colon

Important information

Your Sitzmarks method

Day capsule taken: _______________________________________
Return for x-ray on: ____________________________________

Day 1. Take single chamber capsule: __________________________
Day 2. Take double chamber capsule: _________________________
Day 3. Take triple chamber capsule: _________________________
Return for x-ray on: ______________________________________

Follow-up

ALERT

Call your child’s doctor, nurse or clinic if you or your child have any concerns or if your child:

  • Throws up within 4 hours of swallowing the capsule or rings.
  • Does not swallow all the rings
  • Has a hard time pooping (constipated).
  • Has special health care needs not covered by this information.