Given Imaging's camera capsules employs Zarlink's wireless RF chip

Zarlink's custom RF (radio frequency) IC is used inside Given Imaging's new PillCam COLON 2 camera capsule, which is used to diagnose the stomach, intestine and colon diseases.

The new camera capsule provides a patient-friendly alternative for visualizing the colon.

Given Imaging says, PillCam COLON 2 is a smooth, plastic capsule which can be easily swallowed by the patient without requiring sedation, intubation, air insufflation, hospitalization or radiation. The capsule contains tiny cameras at each end, a light source and Zarlink's low power RF transceiver.

Zarlink's RF chip transmits images from the PillCam COLON 2 to an external data recorder as the vitamin-sized capsule passes naturally through the patient's colon. Zarlink's RF technology is in use in Given Imaging's PillCam SB video capsules for visualizing the small bowel.

"The evolution of Given Imaging's PillCam products highlights the increasing opportunity for our radio technologies in new and emerging wireless medical devices and therapies," said Steve Swift, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Zarlink's Medical Products group.

"Zarlink's wireless technology has been a key component as we have developed our successful range of PillCam products for wireless endoscopy. Our new PillCam COLON 2 is a patient-friendly capsule endoscope that may complement traditional procedures to visualize the colon in patients who are unwilling or unable to undergo colonoscopy," said Kevin Rubey, Chief Operations Officer, Given Imaging.

Availability: PillCam COLON 2 in Europe in 2010. [PillCam COLON 2 is not approved for use in the USA].

For more details visit www.zarlink.com