The SmartPill gastrointestinal mapping system is expanding to a third medical center, according to Business First of Buffalo. From the company’s website:
The patient swallows the SmartPill Capsule which contains two subminiature radio transmitters. The SmartPill Capsule’s transmissions are received by a small, patient worn Mobile Receiver/Controller. Site-specific data is captured in real-time as the capsule passes through the GI tract. The SmartPill Capsule is not absorbed nor does it interact with the GI tract in any way other than its propulsion via peristalsis, eventually exiting through the colon (usually within 24 hrs).
The second generation SmartPill GI Monitoring System, featuring Ambulant Capsule Technology II (ACT II) in development, will enable real-time, site-specific tracking of the SmartPill Capsule’s position within the GI tract. ACT II tracking software will discriminate multiple capsules and track them simultaneously in a patient, as they transit the bowel, by repeatedly mapping or monitoring the entire GI tract. In addition, the SmartPill ACT II System will provide Gastroenterologist and researchers with a real-time diagram of the patient’s alimentary tract.
Though the SmartPill can measure pH, temperature, and pressure, it doesn’t take pictures. Future versions, however, plan to incorporate drug delivery.
They say it’s just a little larger than a multivitamin. But at $425 a pop, it’s not immediately apparent whether the devices are re-usable.
More at Smart Pill Diagnostics…