Pressure-Propelled Capsule for Small Intestine Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for evaluating the small intestine, such as endoscopic examinations, are invasive and lack efficient means for imaging the entire length of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in detecting abnormalities and facilitating drug delivery or procedures within the small intestine.
Innovation Solution
A pressure-propelled imaging system comprising a guide member mounted near the ileocecal or pyloric valve, an introducer tube, and an ingestible capsule with an on-board gas supply that forms a pressure seal and uses positive gas pressure to propel the capsule distally through the small intestine for imaging and potential drug delivery, while transmitting images externally.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If endoscopic examination is used to evaluate the small intestine, then the ability to detect abnormalities is improved, but the invasiveness and complexity of the procedure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the examination function into separate components: an ingestible capsule containing imaging sensors and a separate external control unit. This segmentation allows the capsule to be swallowed easily (reducing invasiveness) while maintaining comprehensive imaging capabilities for detecting abnormalities in the small intestine.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a pressure-propelled capsule as an intermediary device that travels through the gastrointestinal tract to perform imaging. This intermediary approach eliminates the need for direct endoscopic insertion, reducing procedural invasiveness while maintaining diagnostic precision through onboard imaging sensors.
2Loss of information
If a standard endoscope is advanced into the small intestine, then imaging capability is improved, but the time required for the procedure and patient discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule is designed to propel itself through the gastrointestinal tract using pressure differentials and peristalsis, eliminating the need for continuous manual advancement by a physician. This self-service capability reduces procedure time and allows the capsule to autonomously navigate to capture images of the entire GI tract.
Solution Approach 2:
The capsule employs periodic imaging cycles, capturing images at regular intervals as it travels through the digestive tract. This periodic action allows comprehensive coverage of the entire GI tract over time, ensuring complete imaging without requiring continuous high-speed capture that would increase procedural complexity.
3Measurement precision
If a pressure seal is formed with the intestinal wall, then imaging quality and stability are improved, but the risk of tissue damage or discomfort increases
Solution Approach 1:
The capsule utilizes a flexible inflatable balloon or shell that can gently conform to the intestinal wall to form a pressure seal. This flexible structure distributes pressure evenly, maintaining stable imaging conditions while minimizing the risk of tissue damage compared to rigid sealing mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the inflation pressure of the sealing mechanism based on real-time feedback from pressure sensors and imaging quality metrics. By changing pressure parameters adaptively, the system maintains optimal imaging stability while preventing excessive pressure that could cause tissue damage.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables non-invasive, efficient imaging of the small intestine's entire length, facilitating drug delivery and procedures by using a pressure-propelled capsule that forms a seal with the intestinal wall, enhancing diagnostic capabilities and procedural efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
uses positive gas pressure to propel the capsule distally through the small intestine
Implementation Method 2
forms a pressure seal with the intestinal wall
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus for use in a body lumen is provided including an introducer tube configured to be advanced into a gastrointestinal tract of a subject. A guide member is coupled to a distal end of the introducer tube and is configured to be mounted in a vicinity of a valve of the subject. The apparatus also includes a capsule removably coupled to a distal portion of the introducer tube, and configured to be decoupled from the introducer tube and propelled through a small intestine of the subject once the guide member has been mounted in the vicinity of the valve. The apparatus also includes a gas supply configured to propel the capsule distally through the small intestine by generating positive gas pressure proximal to the capsule. Other embodiments are also described.