In vivo pan/tilt endoscope with integrated light source, zoom and auto-focusing.

We describe a surgical imaging device with pan, tilt, zoom and integrated LED light source. It can be fully inserted into the abdomen, leaving the insertion port free for tooling. Using a porcine model we have tested the device and performed surgical procedures including cholecystectomy, appendectomy, running (measuring) the bowel, suturing, and nephrectomy. The tests show that the new device is: * Easier and more intuitive to use than a standard laparoscope. * Joystick operation requires no specialized operator training. * Field of view and access to relevant regions of the body were superior to a standard laparoscope using a single port. * Time to perform procedures was better or equivalent to a standard laparoscope. We believe these insertable platforms will be an integral part of future surgical systems.