Medtronic has announced the successful completion of the first procedure using its updated ingestible camera, designed for capsule-based endoscopy both in clinics and remotely during telehealth appointments.
The PillCam Genius SB, which received FDA clearance in May, builds on capsule endoscopy technology first introduced in the early 2000s. The new system captures tens of thousands of high-resolution images of the small bowel mucosa, aiding in the diagnosis and monitoring of gastrointestinal conditions like Crohn’s disease, iron-deficient anemia, and hidden internal bleeding.
Unlike previous models that required bulky recorder hardware and sensor belts, the latest version transmits images to a single-use wearable device that attaches directly to the skin. The wearable device notifies users when the procedure is complete through lights, sounds, and vibrations, simplifying the process.
As reported by fiercebiotech, the system also enables limited real-time visualization, allowing clinicians to track the capsule’s location within the gastrointestinal tract.
“Capsule endoscopy technology has advanced to simplify equipment management and make the procedure more accessible and patient-centric,” said Dr. Jodie Barkin, director of pancreatic and small bowel diseases at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, who helped oversee the procedure.
“The ability to conduct procedures remotely, combined with seamless integration of advanced imaging, streamlines workflows for healthcare providers, offers greater flexibility for health systems, and enhances the patient experience,” Dr. Barkin added.