AIG Introduces PillBot in India: Tiny robot set to replace traditional endoscopy

Hyderabad: Imagine swallowing a tiny robot that explores your stomach, providing real-time images without the discomfort of traditional endoscopy.

This vision is now a reality with PillBot™, a robotic capsule endoscopy technology introduced in India by AIG Hospitals in collaboration with US-based innovator Endiatx.

Unveiled during an event at AIG Hospitals’ Gachibowli facility, this technology is set to revolutionize gastrointestinal (GI) diagnostics.

The event featured experts, including Dr Vivek Kumbhari, Chair of Gastroenterology at Mayo Clinic, USA, and Dr Alex Luebke, Co-founder of Endiatx.

PillBot™: Non-Invasive and Precise

PillBot™, a swallowable capsule measuring 13mm by 30mm, is equipped with advanced cameras, sensors and wireless technology. Once ingested, it navigates the GI tract and transmits high-resolution, real-time images to physicians.

Dr D Nageshwar Reddy, Chairman of AIG Hospitals, described its potential: “This cutting-edge technology represents a monumental leap forward in gastroenterology. PillBot™ combines precision with patient convenience, offering a glimpse into the future of diagnostic care.”

Unlike traditional endoscopy, PillBot™ requires no sedation or invasive procedures, ensuring a comfortable and efficient experience for patients.

How PillBot™ Works

The procedure is straightforward:

1. The patient fasts and drinks water.

2. The capsule is swallowed.

3. Within 10 minutes, the doctor can remotely explore the stomach.

4. The capsule is naturally passed and flushed.

“The PillBot’s ability to provide high-resolution insights without invasive procedures marks a pivotal moment in patient care,” added Dr. Reddy. “By integrating robotics and AI, we are paving the way for accurate and cost-effective GI diagnostics.”

AI Integration: The Future of GI Care

PillBot™ integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance its diagnostic potential. AI models analyze data from the device, enabling early detection and personalized treatment plans for GI conditions.

Dr Rakesh Kalapala, Director of the Centre for AI and Innovation at AIG Hospitals, emphasized the hospital’s role: “Our partnership with Endiatx goes beyond showcasing technology. By contributing clinical data to Endiatx’s research, we aim to improve PillBot™’s efficiency and accelerate the development of AI-driven autonomous diagnostics.”

Collaboration and Research

Currently, in the research phase, PillBot™ has not yet received FDA approval and is being used in India for clinical trials.

“This technology represents years of research by engineers, clinicians, and scientists,” said Dr. Vivek Kumbhari of Mayo Clinic. “The collaboration between AIG Hospitals and Endiatx demonstrates how global partnerships can drive meaningful innovation.”

Dr. Alex Luebke, Co-founder of Endiatx, shared the broader vision: “Our goal is to make PillBot™ a widely accessible tool. By harnessing AI, we envision a future where PillBot™ not only diagnoses autonomously but also guides preventive care strategies.”

Transforming GI Care in India

Dr Reddy concluded, “This technology has the potential to redefine GI care in India, not only saving lives but also making diagnostics cost-effective. Right now the cost of production is $100. But once it is mass-produced we are sure that we can lower the costs to as low as 35 dollars.”

As clinical trials progress, PillBot™ promises to lead a new era of patient-friendly, AI-powered diagnostics.