Patients of celiac diseases might soon be able to avoid pain in gastroscope and celoscope examinations, as China has invented a miniature robot wrapped in a normal-sized capsule which can wirelessly send images.

As the rechargeable robot moves through celiac organs, a mini-camera unit works at a speed of 5 seconds per photo frame. Meanwhile, a wireless transmitter sends images to a receiver.

In addition to celiac examination, the robot can be used in small wound surgery to mitigate pains, improve operation safety and reduce medical costs. The new technology has just passed the state appraisal in Beijing.

(Xinhua News Agency August 3, 2005)