Tiny robots help detect bowel cancer early, instead of having to take a sample to bring a biopsy, opening the direction of a lesser and more effective diagnosis.
The study was published in the Journal of Science Robotics on March 27. Scientists in the UK have developed a tiny robot capable of exploring intestinal tract to detect and treat colon cancer, one of the leading death cancer. This is a new step in the field of medical robots.
The robot has a special shape, helping it roll and move flexibly in the body by remote control. The robot is also equipped with high frequency ultrasound probes to scan 3D and create detailed images from deep within the digestive system, allowing “virtual biopsy” without taking samples. This technology helps early detection of colorectal cancer in an invasive, fast and accurate manner. It also reduces the waiting time for diagnosis, increasing the effectiveness of treatment.
Nikita Greenidge, a researcher at the University of Leeds and the main author of the study, said: “This minimal invasive robot can improve early and future diagnosis, supporting the distribution of drug -targeted drugs by ultrasound.”
Developers from the University of Leeds, Glasgow and Edinburgh are expected to test robots in the next year, after success on animal models.
Robots are shaped like shells to support early detection and cancer treatment. Image: StormLab
According to researchers, the process of screening, diagnosis and treatment can be performed once instead of lasting weekly. This method is especially useful for women, due to the average average female colon than men, making the standard endoscopy can cause more discomfort and pain.
Jane Nicholson, a research director at the British Science and Technical Research Council, said this project is a typical example of advanced technology that can promote cancer diagnosis and treatment methods in a faster and less invasive manner.
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the third most common cancer in the world. In 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) recorded 1.9 million new cases and 900,000 deaths worldwide. Notably, the incidence of colorectal cancer in people under 50 is increasing in many high -income countries, including the US. Scientists are investigating the relationship between this disease and a super food -rich diet.
Professor Naeem Soomro, a member of the Council and Vice President of Future Surgery at the Royal University of Royal Surgery, assessed that this robot has the potential to become an important improvement if proven to be effective through human tests. However, he emphasized that more research is needed to confirm safety, clinical efficiency and widely applicable in practice.
Medical robots are increasingly widely used in diagnosis and treatment, helping to improve accuracy and minimize invasion. Currently, robots have been deployed in processes such as vascular and anti-radiation X-rays, supporting the treatment of many different types of cancer.