Intersystem Interference Study between Medical Capsule Camera Endoscopy and Other Systems in Co-Channel and Adjacent Bands

The Ultra-High Frequency (UHF) band occupies a very vital region in the spectrum and is becoming very congested because many applications use it. The capsule camera (CapCam), an ultra-low power wireless device, is a Short Range Device (SRD) application that utilizes the UHF spectrum for medical endoscopy and it is designed to operate at the 430-440MHz frequency band range. This study will focus on the interference between the CapCam and other systems operating in the frequency of 435MHz and adjacent bands. Other systems that can operate in this band include non-specific SRD and radiolocation services such as airborne radar and ground radar stations. The Minimum Coupling Loss (MCL) method is implemented in this study. The findings showed that restricted distances between the CapCam and other services must be considered when the CapCam is in use. This should be done to avoid harmful interference from the CapCam especially in the case of radiolocation services.

Accelerated non-medical endoscopy training: one trust's experience

Endoscopy services are under considerable pressure to meet the increasing demand expected by 2020. A large hospital foundation trust was offered the opportunity to develop its endoscopy workforce by two of its endoscopy nurses obtaining a place on Health Education England's accelerated non-medical endoscopy training programme. The training took place over a period of 7 months and combined comprehensive endoscopy training supported by a robust academic component. A thematic analysis was carried out on the trainees' reflective journals kept during the course, and this highlighted the frequently occurring themes. The trust has benefited greatly from the experience, and, although challenging, the rewards can be far-reaching and have a positive impact on staff and patients.