A Miniaturized Capsule Endoscope Equipped a Marking Module for Intestinal Tumor Localization

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Gastroenterology
• Robotics

Background:

• Accurate localization of intestinal tumors and lesions is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.
• Traditional endoscopic tattooing methods have limitations and risks.
• Development of advanced wireless capsule endoscopes is an active area of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a miniaturized, actively controlled wireless capsule endoscope with an integrated marking module.
• To enable precise localization of intestinal tumors or lesions using an electromagnetic actuation (EMA) system.
• To demonstrate a novel, battery-free tattooing mechanism for in-situ marking.

Main Methods:

• Design of an active wireless capsule endoscope with a permanent magnet for EMA manipulation.
• Development of a gas-generated chemical reaction system to activate an ink injection module.
• Utilizing an external EMA system to control capsule movement and trigger the tattooing process.
• Stowing the injection needle during capsule transit to prevent organ damage.

Main Results:

• Successful demonstration of a miniaturized capsule endoscope capable of wireless navigation and marking.
• Feasibility of the EMA-controlled, gas-activated ink injection system was proven.
• Visible ink marking was successfully created on the serosa of the intestine, confirming the design's potential.
• The system operates without consuming internal battery power.

Conclusions:

• The proposed robotic capsule endoscope offers a feasible and potentially safer alternative to traditional endoscopic tattooing.
• The design facilitates precise lesion localization and marking within the digestive tract.
• This technology holds promise for advancing functional wireless capsule endoscopy and improving gastrointestinal diagnostics.