Towards real-time remote diagnostics of capsule endoscopic images using Wi-Fi

Abstract

The paper presents a design of a microcontroller based Wi-Fi adapter that can be used in wireless capsule endoscopy application. Using the proposed adapter, image data from an endoscopic capsule, after swallowing, can be can be saved (or logged) directly on smart device, laptop, workstation or server that are connected to hospital's Wi-Fi network. This enables medical doctors to analyze data in real time during examination from a remote place. Two case studies are shown where (a) an Android mobile app for Smartphone and (b) computer software for standalone laptop workstation have been developed. The design has been prototyped in laboratory and the advantage of the proposed adapter is demonstrated for capsule endoscopy application. The proposed W-Fi adapter is also useful for other external or implantable biosensors with similar advantages where remote viewing and diagnosis in real-time are desired.