Olympus: A next-gen endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) bronchoscope
(Image courtesy of Olympus)
Olympus is touting the impending launch of two surgical devices. The BF-UC190F, the next generation of Olympus’ endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) bronchoscope, is designed to provide enhanced access and control to allow staging and diagnosis of difficult-to-reach lymph nodes and lesions. Olympus points to more than 1,600 clinical studies in its efforts to innovate and work with pulmonologists who treat patients with lung cancer.
An improved endoscopic image with higher resolution offers better visualization in the airway to accurately identify anatomy landmarks and detect abnormalities, according to the company. The BF-UC190F’s real-time ultrasound imaging enables direct visualization of the ViziShot 2 EBUS-TBNA needle as it penetrates the lymph node to optimize sample collection. A steeper needle puncture angle provides a more perpendicular needle orientation toward the target, allowing for smoother target penetration between cartilage rings and other critical vessels.
The new bronchoscope’s compact distal tip and increased scope angulation were designed to enhance maneuverability with better access to difficult-to-reach lymph node stations in the mediastinum (4L) and in the hilum (10R). A decreased forward oblique angle of 20° facilitates easier endoscopic orientation and allows the operator to keep the endoscopic image in a full field of view while navigating the airways during a procedure.
Olympus also plans to launch the single-use Nova lighted surgical instrument, designed to illuminate target tissue while reducing shadows and glare for precise minimally invasive and open surgery or work in deep pockets.
Nova is part of the Olympus RF surgical pencil and grounding pad portfolio — with patented LED lights, traditional cut and coag buttons, and included 2.75-in. and 6-in. PTFE non-stick electrodes for optimal energy delivery — as well as a light switch for intermittent or continuous light.
