Determining scope position during colonoscopy without the use of ionizing radiation or magnetic field: The enhanced mapping ability of the NeoGuide endoscopy system

Introduction: Knowledge of the position and shape of the colonoscope could overcome many of the challenges of performing a colonoscopy. Fluoroscopy and magnetic endoscope imaging systems can provide physicians with information on scope shape but are limited by cost and the risk of ionizing radiation. A novel computer-assisted colonoscope was designed to avoid loop formation and thus limit patient discomfort during colonoscopy. The colonoscope utilizes a fully articulated, computer-controlled insertion tube. On manual insertion of the colonoscope, the position and angle of the tip are encoded into a computer algo…