Magnetic Actuator Assists in Guiding a Colonoscope.

A magnetic actuator for colonoscope navigation was fabricated. We then examined a motion test using the intestine of a pig. The actuator was composed of a tubular permanent magnet and a spiral structure made of rubber. The magnet was magnetized in the direction of its diameter. The actuator was attached to the end of a simulated endoscope. When a rotational magnetic field is applied, the actuator rotates and moves in the intestine tube. The magnetic actuator can trail two flexible silicone tubes in the small and large intestines of a pig without changing the shape of the intestines. This result suggests that the actuator has great potential for colonoscope navigation.