Shape memory alloy-based biopsy device for active locomotive intestinal capsule endoscope

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Robotics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Capsule endoscopes are limited to diagnosing small tubular organs due to their lack of locomotive function.
• Active locomotive capsule endoscopes are needed for comprehensive gastrointestinal tract examination.
• A biopsy function is crucial for definitive diagnosis using capsule endoscopes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and validate a novel robotic biopsy device integrated into an active locomotive capsule endoscope.
• To enable flexible movement and tissue sampling within the gastrointestinal tract.
• To provide sufficient tissue samples for histological analysis.

Main Methods:

• Development of a capsule endoscope with a permanent magnet actuated by an electromagnetic system for flexible movement.
• Integration of a robotic biopsy device featuring a sharp blade activated by a shape memory alloy actuator.
• In-vitro testing of the capsule endoscope with the biopsy device using the electromagnetic actuation system for tissue extraction.

Main Results:

• The integrated biopsy device successfully extracted approximately 6 mm³ of tissue, sufficient for histological analysis.
• The shape memory alloy actuator effectively exposed the sharp blade for biopsy.
• The electromagnetic actuation system facilitated controlled movement for tissue sampling.

Conclusions:

• The proposed robotic biopsy device is feasible for integration into active locomotive capsule endoscopes.
• This technology enhances the diagnostic capabilities of capsule endoscopy for the entire gastrointestinal tract.
• The system demonstrates potential for improved definitive diagnosis of digestive diseases.