A new type of endoscopy – small, easy, comfortable

Patients have to undergo a gastroscopy to rule out gastrointestinal conditions. Many dread this procedure since a thin, flexible tube is being pushed through the esophagus and stomach. Ovesco Endoscopy AG has teamed up with other project partners in the nuEndo research project to develop a capsule endoscopy device that is tiny, easy to swallow and makes the test more comfortable for the patient.

In this MEDICA.de interview, Dr. Sebastian Schostek explains the advantages of capsule endoscopy and the technological progress it represents. He also reveals the impact the diagnostic system could have on future patient care.

Dr. Schostek, a gastroscopy via a tube will soon be a thing of the past. Why is that?

Dr. Sebastian Schostek: The new capsule endoscopy technique will be able to replace the traditional gastroscopy procedure, where a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope is used to diagnose. Therapeutic interventions requiring the use of instruments will still involve a flexible endoscope. The capsule endoscope is made possible by technological advances in three areas. The first area pertains to miniaturized, powerful camera systems, which only measure few millimeters in size. The next area relates to new, wireless technology that enables real-time transmission of camera images. The third aspect affects innovative sensor/actuator systems allowing for intuitive control of the capsule inside the body.

How big is the capsule endoscopy?

Schostek: The capsule will have an approximate diameter of 11 millimeters and a length of 26 millimeters.

Why is a gastroscopy using capsule endoscopy quicker and more comfortable for the patient?

Schostek: The conventional gastroscopy procedure uses a flexible tube to guide through the patient's esophagus. This is very uncomfortable and many patients require a sedative for this test.

This highly unpleasant portion is now being omitted because capsule endoscopy like the one developed in the nuEndo project simply requires the patient to swallow a small capsule. This also reduces the risk of complications.

What are the possible risks and complications of capsule endoscopy for patients?

Schostek: Any medical procedure involves some risks. The risk profile in this case is no different from other capsule endoscope platforms. An advantage for the patient is that there are no risks resulting from the insertion of the flexible endoscope through the esophagus.

Is the camera pill more expensive than the more traditional endoscopy procedure?

Schostek: No statement can be made pertaining to cost at this time. Having said that, the goal is to deliver a positive cost-benefit ratio if possible.

What impact will the capsule endoscopy have on future patient care?

Schostek:  The aim is to make future patient care faster, easier for the operator and more comfortable for the patient. We want to do our share with the nuEndo project. This new type of gastroscopy can also be prepared and performed by non-clinical staff like an assistant for example. By unburdening the doctor with this process, it helps counteract physician shortage in the sector and make this diagnostic test accessible to more patients.

Who are Ovesco Endoscopy AG’s project partners?

Schostek: Ovesco Endoscopy AG is the project initiator and consortium coordinator. Our project partners include the Fraunhofer Institute for Reliability and Microintegration and Sensodrive GmbH in Munich.

What is the projected completion date for this project?

Schostek: The research phase will be completed in 2022. The system won’t be available for clinical application until 2024.