Cameras are used more than taking beautiful pictures. They are also used for scientific experiments, and in some cases, even as a life-saving tool for doctors. The Scottish National Health Service (NHS) has used a small camera in a ‘pill’ to screen more than 2,000 patients for bowel cancer. The Pilcam Colon capsules are used for endoscopy (CCE) procedures. It is an important tool in allowing intestinal diagnostic screening and testing to continue during an ongoing epidemic, and it is an easily swallowed alternative to colonoscopy.
Pilcam is roughly the size of a large pill. It works in conjunction with an adjustable belt that patients wear around their waist because the pill works through their digestive tract. The Pilcam captures approximately 50,000 images of a patient’s gut at a frame rate of two to six frames per second as it passes through the body.
Pilcam next to a simple ballpoint pen. Credit: PA |
Since the Pilcam captures images with its built-in light, the images are transmitted wirelessly to a recording device stuck around the patient’s waist. After Pilcam completed its journey, images were downloaded from the recording device and analyzed by medical professionals. Surprisingly, Pilcam is a disposable device. This is probably the only time one should flush the camera in the toilet.
“We are delighted to have reached this milestone for 2,000 patients with this exciting, fast and effective diagnostic procedure,” said Professor Angus Watson, colorectal surgeon and clinical lead consultant for colon capsule endoscopy. ‘Traditionally, these tested patients need sleeping pills and can be quite anxious to come for their appointment. The test is painless, and although they still have to do the same cleansing preparation, what they are doing is swallowing the capsule and letting the camera work. ‘
Many people are afraid to get a colonoscopy and may stop diagnostic screening for fear. Furthermore, relief, which always carries some risks, can be risky for certain patients. Like many types of cancer, early detection of colorectal cancer is important for successful treatment. Pillcams can save lives in general, but the number of traditional colonoscopies that can be performed, especially during epidemics, has been reduced.
“It’s much easier, it’s just swallowing a tablet, the preparation is the same as a normal colonoscopy, and if you are worried about the procedure, it is a very good option because it is much less invasive,” said the healthcare worker. Jacqueline Gribbon, who received a CCE procedure in December. ‘It’s painless, it’s not uncomfortable at all, it’s easy to do and it’s straightforward as long as you follow your preparatory work, I would definitely recommend it.’
Dr. John Thomson, Consultant Gastroenterologist and Associate Clinical Director at the Center for Sustainable Delivery, says Pilcam and CCE have the potential to improve patient experience and health outcomes. “This state-of-the-art technology will not only help people get the health checks they need, but also make it as convenient and fast as possible.”