Technical validation of an ex vivo diagnostic device for colon polyp classification based on microwaves

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of death in developed countries, and early detection is crucial for a favorable prognosis of the patient. To promote and increase this early detection, screening program have been implemented in many countries, which has increased the amount of colonoscopies performed significantly. Consequently, the amount of colon samples and biopsies sent for histological analysis has also increased, which is creating bottlenecks in endoscopy and pathology departments at major public hospitals. A new technology to rapidly provide an initial diagnosis of the extracted polyps is under study at UPF in collaboration with Hospital Clínic and UPC. It is based on measuring the dielectric properties of the tissue using microwaves, in a non-ionizing and non-destructive manner. This device could potentially replace histological analysis of benign polyps, thus reducing the workload of pathologists. In this thesis I intend to do a technical validation of this technology, in which the idea is validated with experts in the field, the state of the art is researched and the technological specifications are defined. To do so I carried out an extended bibliographic research, sent surveys to the medical professionals involved and went to Hospital Clinic to dive into the endoscopists and pathologists daily practice. I also investigated the different technological approaches for the device. Additionally, I analyzed the measurements obtained from a pre-proof of concept experiment and proposed a future experimental validation test. Finally, the milestones that have to be followed in order to launch this device into the market are explained. The proposed device is a novel solution to an existing problem, which would be very beneficial for the medical community. However, there are still many steps to be performed before this device can reach the market.