Wireless Insufflation for Wireless Capsule Endoscopy

Abstract

Robotic mechanisms promise to enhance the diagnostic abilities of capsule endoscopes, endow them with novel interventional capabilities and reduce the invasiveness of endoscopy. The success of traditional endoscopy in diagnosing disease of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract can be attributed to the clear view that such techniques provide of the intestinal lumen and the range of motion they are capable of displaying. When viewed in the context of capsule endoscopy, the ability to clearly view tissue and navigate within the GI track both depend on the ability to distend tissue. In an effort to bring this functionality to wireless capsule endoscopy, the present investigation examines the feasibility of generating a significant volume of gas from a capsule based-platform. Success of the system is determined by its ability to provide a level of insufflation that is necessary to enhance visualization, and allow for magnetic locomotion, within the colon. As such, this research begins by quantifying the amount of gas that must be introduced to the colon to enhance visualization and magnetic locomotion. Once the desired level of insufflation is established, various chemical reactions are evaluated for use as a gas generator within capsule-based devices. Finally, prototypes are designed, fabricated and tested to demonstrate the feasibility of wireless capsule insufflation.