Published online Feb 7, 2016. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v22.i5.1811
Peer-review started: November 9, 2015
First decision: November 27, 2015
Revised: December 12, 2015
Accepted: December 30, 2015
Article in press: December 30, 2015
Published online: February 7, 2016
Processing time: 76 Days and 5.7 Hours
Multiple robotic flexible endoscope platforms have been developed based on cross specialty collaboration between engineers and medical doctors. However, significant number of these platforms have been developed for the natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery paradigm. Increasing amount of evidence suggest the focus of development should be placed on advanced endolumenal procedures such as endoscopic submucosal dissection instead. A thorough literature analysis was performed to assess the current status of robotic flexible endoscopic platforms designed for advanced endolumenal procedures. Current efforts are mainly focused on robotic locomotion and robotic instrument control. In the future, advances in actuation and servoing technology, optical analysis, augmented reality and wireless power transmission technology will no doubt further advance the field of robotic endoscopy. Globally, health systems have become increasingly budget conscious; widespread acceptance of robotic endoscopy will depend on careful design to ensure its delivery of a cost effective service.
Core tip: The collaboration between clinicians, engineers and business entrepreneurs with advancements in visualization and actuation technologies have given rise to a new generation of advanced endoscopes with new capabilities. Current efforts have focused on the development of endoscopes with automated locomotion functions and improved instrument manipulation abilities. With further development these new endoscopes will enhance clinicians’ ability to perform advanced endolumenal procedures such as endoscopic submucosal dissection. It is vital that future robotic endoscope development will help deliver a cost effective health service.