Capsule Endoscope Strut Frame for Localized Luminal Distension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Capsule endoscopy is limited by inadequate luminal expansion techniques, leading to sub-optimal visualization and diagnostic efficacy due to collapsed luminal tissue obscuring the lens, especially in the small intestine.
Innovation Solution
A device with a capsule endoscope attachment and self-expanding struts that form a frame around the camera lens, radially and axially extending to create luminal distension, allowing for improved visualization by unfolding tissue folds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If capsule endoscopy is performed without luminal expansion, then the device remains simple and non-invasive, but visualization is obstructed by collapsed luminal tissue
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion device is divided into multiple struts (typically 3-6) that can be independently deployed from the capsule body. Each strut acts as a separate element that radiates outward to push against the luminal wall, creating segments of expansion around the capsule rather than requiring a single complex expansion mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The struts are designed to be dynamically deployable - stored in a compressed state within the capsule during ingestion, then deployed outward upon reaching the target location. This dynamic transformation allows the device to transition from a simple ingestible capsule to an active expansion frame, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and visualization capability.
2Illumination intensity
If struts are extended radially and axially to form a frame, then luminal distension is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The strut frame serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support to maintain luminal distension, creates space for the camera lens to capture images, and acts as a scaffold for potential additional instruments. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving comprehensive luminal visualization.
3Productivity
If the lumen is fully distended for complete visualization, then diagnostic yield is enhanced, but patient discomfort may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The expansion is localized to the immediate vicinity of the capsule endoscope rather than distending the entire lumen. The struts create a localized frame that pushes apart tissue folds only in the field of view area, maintaining complete visualization for diagnostic purposes while limiting the overall distension to a small region, thereby reducing patient discomfort.
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for enhancing visualization of a body lumen. The devices may include features for distending a body lumen for enhanced visualization with a capsule endoscope that includes a camera lens. The devices may include struts configured to extend from the capsule endoscope and meet at an apex with the apex positioned a set axial distance away from the camera lens. The retention strap may be configured to extend around the struts and the capsule endoscope to attach the struts to the capsule endoscope. The retention strap may be configured to be releasable from the capsule endoscope to release the struts from the capsule endoscope.