ColonX

During a colonoscopy, a flexible endoscope is inserted and navigated through the colon with the movable endoscope tip. The procedure is considered uncomfortable for patients. One of the reasons for this is that the endoscope rests against the intestinal wall during advancement. The resulting pain and the preparation for the procedure (bowel evacuation) limit its acceptance among the population.

The RiSC project ColonX in the field of medical robotics aims to reduce the strain exerted by the endoscope shaft on the intestinal wall and the associated pain during and after the procedure. The aim of the project is to develop a new method of robot-assisted colonoscopy that uses the principle of soft everting robots to improve the acceptance of screening and the early detection of colorectal cancer in the long term.

The term “soft everting robots” is made up of the words “soft” - soft materials - and “everting” - turning inside out or expanding. The robot body is usually made of a flexible material. The tubular material, which is turned inside out, is expanded with a drive gas. The pressure causes the robot body to grow at the distal tip without the outer shell of the robot moving relative to its surroundings. Everting robots have a simple operating principle, can penetrate small openings and apply high forces. They can be used in many areas - not only in medicine, but also in manufacturing and rescue operations.

The above-mentioned properties speak in favor of its use in colonoscopy: It is assumed that the expansion mechanism, the lack of relative movement of the robot and bowel and the lack of support on the bowel wall result in a considerable reduction in intraoperative and postoperative pain for the patient. Integrated mechanisms for defined directional insertion can further enhance this effect. Compared to conventional colonoscopy, the Everting Robots' technology is designed to significantly reduce ergonomic strain and fatigue for doctors during the procedure.  Movements can be performed with greater precision and coordination. This can increase the efficiency of the colonoscopy and the acceptance of the examination.