GRMC Makes GI Exams Easier with Advanced Capsule Camera Technology

GRMC Makes GI Exams Easier with Advanced Capsule Camera Technology
In partnership with USDA and USC, GRMC brings advanced capsule endoscopy to Guam

(Thursday, August 7, 2025; Dededo, Guam) – Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC) is proud to introduce a new, more comfortable way to check for stomach problems without needing sedation or a traditional endoscope. The new procedure, called Magnetically Controlled Capsule Endoscopy (MCCE), uses the NaviCam® camera pill and is now available only at GRMC. Supported by a grant from the USDA Rural Development Program, this new service underscores the commitment of GRMC and local leadership to advancing healthcare access and quality for Guam’s residents.

This exciting advancement was made possible through local training completed here on island by Dr. Supannee “Jill” Rassameehiran, GRMC’s Gastroenterologist/Hepatologist, and Dr. Paul Muna Aguon, the Gastroenterologist/Advanced Endoscopist at Guam Memorial Hospital. As part of this collaboration, Dr. Muna Aguon’s patients will receive their MCCE procedures at GRMC, ensuring that they will benefit from this innovative technology in a facility equipped to perform it.

“This small camera pill lets us see inside your stomach clearly without using any tubes or putting you to sleep,” said Dr. Jill. “It’s faster, safer, and much more comfortable for our patients.”

Dr. Muna Aguon adds, “This technology is a sophisticated, sedation-free modality now available on Guam, enhancing our ability to evaluate complex gastrointestinal disease in high-risk patients with greater safety and efficiency.”

HOW IT WORKS
Magnetically Controlled Capsule Endoscopy (MCCE) is a sedation-free, non-invasive way to examine the stomach using a smart, swallowable camera in the form of a capsule.

1. Swallow the Camera Capsule:
The patient simply swallows a small capsule, about the size of a vitamin. Inside the capsule is a tiny camera, light, and wireless transmitter.
2. Magnetic Control:
The capsule is moved inside the stomach using a magnet that a doctor guides above the patient’s abdomen. The magnet can be guided in five different directions to navigate the capsule precisely throughout the stomach.
3. Joystick or Software Guidance:
According to Dr. Jason Baker, Director of Medical Affairs and AnX Academy at ANX Robotica, the capsule can be controlled in two ways: The procedure can be performed manually by a trained operator using joysticks, or automatically by simply clicking a button to activate GastroScan™ – FDA-approved software that autonomously drives the capsule, scanning the stomach from start to finish in approximately 20 minutes.
4. Live Imaging:
The capsule sends live, high-quality images to a computer, allowing doctors to closely inspect the entire stomach lining for signs of irritation, ulcers, inflammation, or other digestive issues.
5. Natural Exit:
After the exam, the capsule passes naturally through the digestive system without any discomfort or recovery time.

“It’s incredibly exciting to bring the NaviCam® system to Guam,” said Dr. Baker. “This cutting-edge technology gives patients access to a safe, comfortable, and highly effective way to examine the stomach. In just 20 minutes, this procedure can capture clear, detailed images that will help Dr. Jill and Dr. Aguon make faster, more accurate diagnoses. It’s a game-changer for digestive care, and we’re proud to partner with GRMC to make it available right here on island.”

WHO CAN ACCESS THIS?
Patients from both GRMC and GMH have access to this procedure at GRMC, making it the island’s exclusive location offering this advanced technology with the sonly gastroenterologists in the region.

WHY IS IT A BETTER OPTION FOR YOU?
• No Sedation Needed
• Patients can return to normal activities right away—no downtime or anesthesia required.
• Minimally invasive and comfortable
• No tubes, no discomfort—just a small, swallowable camera.
• Fast and Convenient

The procedure can often be done the same day for patients experiencing symptoms like:
• Heartburn
• Bloating
• Stomach pain
• Indigestion
• Unexplained nausea
• Persistent discomfort in the upper abdomen
It can also help patients avoid unnecessary ER visits.
• Safe and Hygienic
The capsule is single-use and disposable, lowering the risk of infection and cross-contamination.

This technology offers a safe, non-invasive way to screen the stomach for abnormalities before proceeding to more invasive procedures like Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). While the capsule allows doctors to view the stomach lining in detail, it does not allow for intervention—such as biopsies or treatment—which can be performed during an EGD. The capsule camera is especially useful for patients who are high-risk for sedation or looking for a less invasive first step in diagnostic evaluation.

Through a Telehealth and Distance Learning Grant given to the University of Southern California by the USDA, GI Digital has partnered with AnX Robotica, the company behind the NaviCam® system, to bring world-class innovation directly to Guam, available exclusively at GRMC. AnX Robotica is known for providing safe, patient-friendly technology that helps doctors see inside the entire GI Tract without the discomfort and risk of traditional procedures.

This technology gives patients a safe, quick, and comfortable way to check for stomach issues. If you’re experiencing ongoing digestive discomfort or symptoms, talk to your primary care doctor to see if this procedure might be beneficial for you.

For more information about GRMC and Dr. Jill, visit https://www.grmc.gu/personnel/supanee/

For more information about ANX Robotica, visit https://www.facebook.com/GuamRegionalMedicalCity/videos/1047199497423964/