A new medical device, which is scheduled to enter clinical trials later this year, will make it possible for doctors to more accurately dispense drugs that treat gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as colon cancer, colitis, and Crohn’s Disease. The ingestible electronic capsule, called the iPill, uses a pH sensor and thermometer to determine its location within the GI-tract. A radio transmitter and antenna are used to communicate with an external computer, and a tiny pump controlled by a built-in microprocessor dispenses the on-board supply of drugs at the optimal time.

The biggest benefit of such a system is that it minimizes the toxic side effects of chemotherapy, steroids and other drugs on surrounding organs and tissue by more closely targeting the affected area. It will also open up possibilities for promising new treatments that could otherwise not be administered in high enough concentrations to be effective.

Someday, doctors may be able to deliver life saving drug right to the problem spot. Imagine the possibility of treating cancers by using the iPill to deliver targeted chemotherapy.

www.research.philips.com/newscenter/index.html

Tags: Burrus, Competitive Advantage, Dan Burrus, Daniel Burrus, Future, Future Tech, Future Technology, Healthcare, Technology

Posting on February 3rd, 2010 under Technology News. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.