The idea for a GI data collection system began several years ago at the University of Buffalo, he said. In 2003, SmartPill began development and design, followed by clinical trials, he said. The devices are expected to be available to doctors and hospitals by the end of October, he said.

Future versions could eventually help diagnose other GI problems, including irritable bowel syndrome, Barthel said.

The capsules will retail for about US$500, while the computer system and software that evaluate the results will sell for about $20,000, according to the company. Called MotiliGI, the application includes software for the capsules, for the receiver and for data analysis after patient monitoring is completed.

Matt Petersen, a spokesman for the Alexandria, Va.-based American Diabetes Association, said gastroparesis among diabetes patients is "a real problem. It's certainly under recognized," compared to more commonly known complications.

"People often suffer with this problem not realizing that it's related to diabetes," Petersen said. "It can be painful and uncomfortable. It's considered a serious complication of diabetes."