Capsule Sponge

 RM Partners is participating in the national capsule sponge pilot, involving a new diagnostic test introduced by NHS England to identify conditions such as Barrett’s oesophagus, a condition that can increase a person’s risk of developing oesophageal cancer.

Capsule sponge (previously called Cytosponge) is a small capsule attached to a fine string. During the test, which takes around 30 minutes, patients swallow the capsule. Once in the stomach, the capsule coating dissolves to release a small sponge.

A nurse pulls the sponge back through the oesophagus using a string attached to the sponge. The cells are then analysed in pathology for abnormalities.

The pilot is currently being delivered in west London at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, and St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust throughout 2023/2024.

For further clinical information including patient eligibility in both reflux and Barrett’s cohorts, please see the clinical guides (right).

For further general information please contact RMPartners.research@nhs.net