| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3306645 | Gastrointestinal Endoscopy | 2011 | 7 Pages |
BackgroundRemote control of capsule endoscopes might allow reliable inspection of the human stomach.ObjectiveTo assess the safety and efficacy of manipulation of a modified capsule endoscope with magnetic material (magnetic maneuverable capsule [MMC]) in the human stomach by using a handheld external magnet.DesignOpen clinical trial.SettingAcademic hospital.PatientsTen healthy volunteers.InterventionsSubjects swallowed the MMC and sherbet powder for gastric distention. An external magnetic paddle (EMP-2) was used to manipulate the MMC within the stomach. MMC responsiveness was evaluated on a screen showing the MMC film in real time.Main Outcome MeasurementsSafety and tolerability (questionnaire), gastric residence time of the MMC, its responsiveness to the EMP-2, area of gastric mucosa visualized.ResultsThere were no adverse events. The MMC was always clearly attracted by the EMP-2 and responded to its movements. It remained in the stomach for 39 ± 24 minutes. In 7 subjects, both the cardia and the pylorus were inspected and 75% or more of the gastric mucosa was visualized (≥50% in all of the remaining subjects). A learning curve was clearly recognizable (identification of MMC localization, intended movements).LimitationsSmall amounts of fluid blocked the view of apical parts of the fundus; gastric distention was not sufficient to flatten all gastric folds.ConclusionsRemote control of the MMC in the stomach of healthy volunteers using a handheld magnet is safe and feasible. Responsiveness of the MMC was excellent, and visualization of the gastric mucosa was good, although not yet complete, in the majority of subjects. The system appeared to be clinically valuable and should be developed further. (Clinical trial registration number: DE/CA05/2009031008.)
