Translational trial outcomes for capsule endoscopy test devices

摘要

Endoscopy and colonoscopy are the clinically recognised standards for imaging and diagnosis of diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. While 'scope-based approaches combine optical and ultrasound imaging to allow both imaging of the surface and full thickness of the bowel wall, they are limited in their ability to access the full length of the GI tract particularly the small bowel. Wireless video capsule endoscopy (VCE) devices designed to transit the entire GI tract are currently limited to optical imaging of the superficial surface. Work is thus under way to implement additional capsule endoscopy (CE) functionality through the development of devices incorporating both optical and microultrasound imaging. Research to date has identified several gaps in the literature, which have been addressed through early translational trials in vivo. The areas of concern can be classified by sensing modality and necessary support circuitry, and resulting research questions addressed through bespoke, single system capsules.