Imaging and collection device and related systems and methods
Inventors
Bansal, Ajay • Christenson, Lane • Baker, Nick • Baskins, Ryan • Stark, John • Sharifi, Nourouddin • Alzuabi, Hadi Kh A Kh • Gill, Parker
Assignees
University of Kansas • US Department of Veterans Affairs
Publication Number
US-11298010-B2
Publication Date
2022-04-12
Expiration Date
2038-01-31
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Abstract
Disclosed herein are devices having both imaging components and cell collection apparatuses. More specifically, the various embodiments disclosed herein include swallowable capsules having deployable collection structures, expansion structures to deploy the collection structures, and imaging components.
Core Innovation
The invention relates to diagnostic devices specifically designed for esophageal conditions, featuring swallowable capsules that combine both imaging and tissue or cell collection functionalities. These capsules incorporate deployable collection structures that can be expanded from within the capsule using an expansion component, such as an inflatable balloon, allowing the collection apparatus to protrude through openings in the outer casing of the capsule. An imaging component is integrated to capture images inside the esophagus or stomach during the procedure.
The problem addressed is the difficulty in early diagnosis of esophageal cancer and related conditions like Barret's esophagus and cardia cancer, which are increasing in incidence and have high mortality rates if not detected early. Current diagnostic methods rely on invasive and expensive endoscopic techniques requiring specialists and sedation. Although some pill-sized cameras exist, they have poor or ineffective cell collection capabilities. There is a need for an improved device and method that simultaneously image and collect esophageal or stomach cells in a minimally invasive, efficient, and cost-effective manner.
Claims Coverage
The patent includes three independent claims covering swallowable capsules with deployable collection structures and imaging components, as well as related diagnostic methods. The main inventive features focus on the mechanical deployment of collection structures, use of an expansion component, and incorporation of imaging capabilities.
Swallowable capsule with deployable collection structures and imaging component
A capsule having a core component with multiple deployment structures that move from undeployed to deployed configurations, each coupled to at least one collection structure. An expansion component within the core expands to urge deployment structures outward through openings in an outer casing, allowing collection structures to protrude. An imaging component on the capsule enables internal visualization.
Deployment structures coupled to capsule body and expandable by an expansion component
The deployment structures are coupled at their proximal ends to the capsule body and configured to move between undeployed and deployed states. The expansion component, such as an inflatable balloon, is positioned adjacent to the deployment structures and causes them to deploy radially outward upon expansion.
Collection structures configured for cell collection and radial extension
Collection structures, including brushes or blades, are coupled to each deployment structure, extending radially outward. The structures may include porous inserts positioned adjacent to collection members to aid cell capture. The collection members are designed to scrape or brush tissue to acquire cell samples.
Method for diagnosing esophageal or stomach conditions with swallowable capsule
A method involving positioning the swallowable capsule within the esophagus or stomach, expanding the expansion component to deploy collection structures through openings toward target tissue for cell collection, capturing images during the procedure, and removing the capsule. The collected cells are then tested for diagnosis.
The claims collectively cover swallowable capsules with mechanically deployable cell collection structures urged outward by an expansion component, integrated imaging components, and methods using these features for diagnosing esophageal and stomach conditions.
Stated Advantages
Allows imaging and cell collection without sedation or requirement of an endoscopic specialist, enabling use by non-specialists in outpatient settings.
Eliminates the need for invasive local tissue dissections, reducing complications.
Enables early detection and diagnosis of esophageal and stomach diseases, including cancers.
Combines imaging and collection in a single, swallowable device, improving procedural efficiency.
Documented Applications
Diagnosis of esophageal cancer, pre-cancerous conditions such as Barret's esophagus, cancer of the cardia, and eosinophilic esophagitis.
Early detection and potentially successful treatment of esophageal and stomach ailments through cell collection and imaging.
Medical imaging and cell sampling of the esophagus and/or stomach to aid diagnostic analysis by identifying preventable and treatable conditions.
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