Electrically Propelled Capsule for Use in Endoscopy

In December of last year, researchers succeeded in designing and testing a new device to more comfortably and accurately perform endoscopies on patients suffering from gastrointestinal issues. Typically, doctors perform endoscopies using tubular endoscopes which may cause discomfort to the patient, and may limit the scope of the procedure (being diffiult to pass into the small intestine). However, biomedical engineers in South Korea have come up with an electrically-propelled capsule that may replace the troublesome endoscope.

The capsule's design was based upon mathematical analysis of the drag and friction which occur naturally in the digestive tract. In addition to optimizing the mechanical aspect of movement, the researchers developed a powering system that allows for the twists and turns of the digestive tract. By using four strategically placed electrodes to stimulate (and contract) the smooth muscle cells, the capsule implements its own sort of peristalsis to effect movement through the tract. Most signifiantly, this control over electrical stimulation and its physiological effect allows for doctors to direct the capsule in an oral (as well as aboral) direction. In this way, the capsule may travel relatively quickly through the digestive tract with doctors going back to investigate areas of interest. Furthermore, the implementation of electrodes overcame the orientation problems of using a magnetic force and the excessively large energy requirements of self-propelled capsules with motors.

The creation of this electrically-propelled, streamlined capsule represents a significant shift in the medical practice toward the growing trend of non-invasive procedures. Although representing a potentially new diagnostic method in my career field of interest, this capsule has additional importance. Every year there is an increased incidence of digestive diseases due to changing lifestyles and stress levels. With endoscopies as a major component in diagnosing these diseases and ensuring proper treatment, the methods and biomedical devices used during these procedures are given an increasing amount of life-saving potential. Even a minor improvement can have a far-reaching positive effect among the vast field of patients.

http://www.biomedical-engineering-online.com/content/10/1/108