Title:New Robotic Technologies in Cancer Colon Screening
Volume: 5
Author(s): Luigi Manfredi*Gianfranco Natale
Affiliation:
- Institute for Medical Science and Technology (IMSaT), University of Dundee, Dundee,United Kingdom
Keywords:
Colonoscopy, robotics, capsule endoscopy, colorectal cancer, cancer screening.
Abstract: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the 3rd most common cause of cancer death worldwide. Regular
screening of the asymptomatic population can drastically reduce the mortality rate. CRC screening
includes several proceedings although the gold standard remains optical colonoscopy (OC), which is
unpleasant, causes pain and discomfort. New technologies exemplified by capsule endoscopy (CE)
constitute alternative painless solutions and despite their limitations, e.g., passive locomotion and absence
of on-board instrumentation, are being increasingly used for CRC screening. Research and development
centres are investigating novel advanced robotic technologies for diagnostic and therapeutic
use. These include wireless communication, active locomotion, sensors, diagnostic, and therapeutic
instruments. This review describes the traditional OC procedure and the existing robotic technologies
for CRC.
