Memscap Components launched with Given Imaging new colon pill

GRENOBLE, FRANCE & DURHAM: MEMSCAP, the leading provider of innovative solutions based on MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical systems) technology, has incorporated its key technology in the PillCam COLON 2 video capsule manufactured by Given Imaging, the leader in providing patient-friendly diagnostic solutions for the gastrointestinal community.

PillCam COLON 2, which obtained the CE mark in September, 2009, has been launched in Europe at the Gastro 2009 conference, which took place in London, on November 23. It enables physicians to visualize the colon and includes the following improvements over its first-generation technology: a new imaging angle (172˚ field-of-view from each imager) offers a near 360˚ view of the colon; a new RAPID software for image analysis and a new data recording process.

Like other PillCam capsules in Given Imaging's suite of products, PillCam COLON 2 does not require the use of sedation, intubation or air insufflation during the procedure. The new technologies embedded in the capsule make it an even more functional tool for visualizing the colon.

Despite statistical limitations resulting from the size of the trials finalized to date, the new capsule offers a high degree of consistency in the sensitivity and specificity of the data, both of which are high and balanced over the trials already realized.

Given Imaging is initiating additional multicenter clinical trials in the US, Europe and Israel and intends to complete these trials over the next few months. Subsequently, it will begin a phased roll out of PillCam COLON 2 in Europe and a few other countries outside of the US in 2010.

MEMSCAP components which are already embedded in other Given Imaging PillCam capsule endoscopes (PillCam ESO 2 and first generation PillCam COLON), are also an integral part of PillCam COLON 2, with a new generation of magnetic switches benefiting from simplified manufacturing processes. This technology enhancement has, among other advantages, enabled substantial gains in terms of manufacturing yields, reliability, manufacturing time, testing time, and particularly has made it possible to eliminate critical suppliers’ dependency through the use of standard processes.

The fit, form and function of the first MEMSCAP magnetic switch qualified for the first generation PillCam COLON have been maintained to ensure a smoother product qualification.

“Given Imaging capsules have revolutionized gastrointestinal tract imaging and offer a patient-friendly alternative. We are pleased to be part of this change and to contribute to this great innovation,” explains Jean Michel Karam, Chief Executive Officer of MEMSCAP.

MEMSCAP medical and biomedical devices, including the magnetic switches embedded in the Given Imaging PillCam video capsules, offer significant advantages to medical device companies worldwide that are looking for miniaturized, more reliable, more efficient, more patient-friendly products. By miniaturising the systems, MEMS is helping to advance minimally invasive surgery and diagnosis to improve medical care and decrease patient suffering.

“MEMSCAP has been for some time now a key partner for our gastrointestinal tract diagnostic solutions”, said Kevin Rubey, Chief Operational Officer of Given Imaging. “Through our partnership, MEMSCAP has showed a unique capability to innovate in the MEMS field. This has once more been evidenced by the development of their new switch generation successfully integrated into our new PillCam COLON 2.”