Robotic-Assisted Colonoscopy Platform with a Magnetically-Actuated Soft-Tethered Capsule

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Medical Devices
• Robotics

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a significant global health burden.
• Current CRC screening methods, like conventional colonoscopy (CC), are often invasive.
• There is a need for less invasive and more patient-friendly colonoscopy techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility, usability, and performance of the Endoo system, a magnetic-tethered capsule colonoscopy.
• To compare Endoo's navigation, interaction forces, and polyp detection rates against conventional colonoscopy (CC).

Main Methods:

• The Endoo system utilizes a soft-tethered capsule with an embedded magnet controlled externally by a robotic system.
• Ex-vivo feasibility and pilot studies were conducted by endoscopy experts and trainees.
• Key features, usability, and compliance were assessed in comparison to CC.

Main Results:

• Endoo achieved a 100% success rate in operating channel and target approach tests, with feasible and repeatable capsule progression.
• Interaction forces were significantly lower with Endoo compared to CC.
• Polyp detection rates were comparable between Endoo (8.7%) and CC (9.1%).
• Robotic colonoscopies were completed in 67% of Endoo procedures.

Conclusions:

• Endoo facilitates smoother navigation and exhibits comparable diagnostic capabilities to conventional colonoscopy.
• Magnetic capsule colonoscopy shows promising potential as a less invasive alternative for colorectal cancer screening.
• Further research is warranted to optimize the Endoo system for clinical application.