Necklace with optical capsules

A swallow capsule device can detect esophageal conditions at a much lower cost than a colonoscopy.

Researchers at the Wellman Center for Optical Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital said the device provided a new way to detect cancer or other problems in the throat, according to Red. Orbit.

The main objective of this device is to scan for signs of a condition called Barrett's esophagus , a precancerous phenomena that usually occurs due to patients suffering from gastric acid reflux for long periods of time.

Endoscopy - (Photo: Massachusetts Hospital)

At the size of a multivitamin and equipped with an infrared source and sensor, the device can capture detailed images of the esophagus, just like using a microscope but taking advantage of some of the advantages of the method. traditional laparoscopy.

The new system offers a more convenient way to scan the throat in the case of Barrett's esophagus test but eliminate the hassle associated with endoscopy, said lead researcher Dr. Gary. Tearney.

"By displaying the 3D structure, the microscope's esophagus, it reveals more details than a high-resolution endoscope ," Tearney said.

A small rope is connected to the pupa, allowing a medical expert to control the device during the examination and only to withdraw from the patient's throat when complete.