Published online Dec 16, 2021. doi: 10.4253/wjge.v13.i12.673
Peer-review started: March 18, 2021
First decision: July 17, 2021
Revised: July 31, 2021
Accepted: December 2, 2021
Article in press: December 2, 2021
Published online: December 16, 2021
Processing time: 270 Days and 15.7 Hours
Inherent limitations exist with conventional colonoscopy which may be overcome by a variety of next-generation robotically-augmented technologies.
Robotic technologies have the potential to transform lower gastrointestinal (LGI) tract endoscopy with long term, benefits for patients, endoscopists and the wider healthcare industry. High quality evidence is currently lacking in this field.
This review provides a comprehensive summary of recent developments in the application of robotics in LGI tract endoscopy.
A systematic review of the literature was performed. Studies reporting on the use of robotic endoscopic technology in ex vivo colon models or in vivo animal and human experiments were included.
Of 37 studies were included of varying actuation modality. Five devices have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, however the majority remain in the early phases of testing and development. Level 1 evidence is lacking at present, but early reports suggest that these technologies may be associated with improved pain and safety.
Significant progress in robotic colonoscopy has been made over the last couple of decades. The reviewed devices appear to be ergonomically capable and efficient though to date no reports have convincingly shown diagnostic or therapeutic superiority over conventional colonoscopy.
Future improvements in design together with the integration of semi-autonomous and autonomous systems over the next decade will potentially result in robotic colonoscopy becoming more commonplace.