Diagnosing Gastro-related Disease Becomes Even Simpler

Main Category: GastroIntestinal / Gastroenterology
Article Date: 21 May 2009 - 3:00 PDT

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Given Imaging LTD. (NASDAQ: GIVN) announced the launch of a simplified procedure for performing PillCam SB 2 capsule endoscopies for the detection of disease in the small intestine. Unveiled at the Society of Gastroenterology Nurses and Associates, Inc. (SGNA) 36th Annual Course, the new procedure utilizes two new products - SensorBelt and RecorderPouch - replacing the sensor array and the recorder belt used previously with the DataRecorder to record the wireless signals emitted by the capsule. Both products can be viewed at Given Imaging's booth #623 at the SGNA meeting, taking place in St. Louis from May 15 to May 20.

"This new procedure makes a patient-friendly diagnostic test even easier and improves workflow productivity at the same time," said Pat Moushey, RN, CGRN, St. Luke's Hospital, St. Louis. "The SensorBelt reduces the time required to prepare the patient for a capsule endoscopy and time spent on equipment maintenance. The RecorderPouch is less visible and allows greater freedom of movement for patients."

The SensorBelt is fitted over a single layer of natural fiber clothing worn by the patient and employs easy-fasten straps for quick adjustments and removal. The sensors are incorporated within the belt and eliminate the need for a nurse to adhere sensors or prepare a patient's abdomen for the procedure. The RecorderPouch includes a strap worn over the shoulder and provides a less visible, more comfortable means for patients to carry the DataRecorder during the procedure. Both products can be washed or disinfected using common liquid disinfectants and are priced to enable cost-effective reorder. The RecorderPouch is available now. SensorBelt is awaiting 510(k) clearance and expected to be available for commercial distribution by mid-summer.

About PillCam SB

The PillCam SB video capsule measures 11 mm x 26 mm and weighs less than four grams. It contains an imaging device and light source and transmits images at a rate of two images per second generating more than 50,000 pictures over an eight-hour period. Initially cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2001, PillCam SB today has become the gold standard as evidenced by more than 1,000 peer-reviewed clinical papers. It is the most accurate, patient-friendly diagnostic and monitoring tool for visualization of the small bowel and is used by physicians to evaluate patients with obscure GI bleeding, including iron deficiency anemia, suspected Crohn's disease, suspected small intestinal tumors and monitoring patients with polyposis syndromes and in suspected or refractory malabsorptive syndromes, such as celiac disease.

About Agile Patency

The Agile Patency System is an accessory to the PillCam video capsule. It is intended to verify adequate patency of the gastrointestinal tract in patients with known or suspected strictures prior to administration of the PillCam video capsule. Clinical situations that might preclude the use of a PillCam video capsule unless intestinal patency can be confirmed include suspicion of strictures related to Crohn's disease, chronic NSAID use, tumors or radiation enteritis.

Source
Given Imaging