Science Robotics发表！MIT开发FIREFLI可吞服胶囊设备，诊断肠系膜缺血准确率超90%

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the development of a groundbreaking medical robot, FIREFLI, designed for the diagnosis of acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI), a condition with a high mortality rate of up to 55% due to delayed diagnosis and treatment [1][3]. Group 1: FIREFLI Capsule Design and Technology - The FIREFLI capsule is inspired by the bioluminescent properties of fireflies, utilizing a "light-emitting - light-sensing" mechanism to detect changes in light reflection caused by ischemic conditions in the intestines [4]. - The capsule features a pH-responsive polymer coating that ensures it activates only in the small intestine, preventing premature activation in the stomach [4]. - Inside the capsule, three sets of flexible printed circuit boards (PCBs) are integrated, each containing a white LED and a 10-channel photodiode sensor, allowing for the detection of light reflection across a spectrum of 350-1000 nm [5]. Group 2: Diagnostic Performance and Validation - Animal studies using pigs demonstrated that the FIREFLI capsule could accurately diagnose ischemia, achieving a diagnostic accuracy of 89%, sensitivity of 98%, and specificity of 88% based on the "tissue brightness" biomarker [8][10]. - The study found that the "tissue brightness" indicator was more effective than color change indicators, which had a lower diagnostic accuracy of 65% and sensitivity of only 37% [10]. - The system maintained consistent performance over time, with ischemic tissue brightness remaining below the threshold during a 5-hour monitoring period, providing reliable data for clinical decision-making [11]. Group 3: Safety and Practicality - Safety trials indicated that the FIREFLI capsule passed through the gastrointestinal tract without causing any obstruction or retention, confirming its design's safety [12]. - The capsule is designed for efficient power management, allowing it to operate for over 5 hours on a single charge, which is sufficient to cover the average transit time through the small intestine [14].