Fujifilm New Development, U.S.A. recently introduced new surgical visualization systems, marking its entry to the growing minimally invasive surgery market in the U.S. The company plans to expand the current realm of minimally invasive tools, leading the way in developing the next generation of products designed to handle more sophisticated surgeries.
“As a comprehensive healthcare organization focused on the entire continuum of care — prevention, diagnosis and treatment — the minimally invasive surgical space is an appropriate market segment for Fujifilm,” says Takaaki Ueda, President and Chief Executive Officer, Fujifilm New Development, U.S.A. “Drawing on Fujifilm’s core technologies and expertise gained over many years in digital radiography, endoscopy, women’s health, ultrasound, and healthcare IT, Fujifilm is well positioned to bring innovations to the industry.”

(Image credit: Fujifilm)
The product portfolio is targeted to surgeons and clinicians who perform surgical procedures in a range of medical specialties. The following systems are now available in the United States:
Fujifilm Ultra-Slim Video Laparoscope System — Using a proprietary Super-Honeycomb CCD technology, the EL-580FN delivers exceptional image resolution, excellent color fidelity, and sharp display quality. Product features include “Chip on the Tip” high definition digital image processing, less-fogging, autoclave sterilization re-processing, and a low profile, light weight ergonomic handle. The Ultra-Slim 3.8mm diameter distal end—42% smaller area than most—was designed to improve clinical workflow, reduce physician fatigue, and potentially reduce the size of incisions. The EPX-4440FN Digital Video Processor System features advanced image HDTV 1080i processing technology to facilitate endoscopic diagnostics and therapies. Automatic light control provides optimal illumination and an anti-blur function extracts high quality motion images. The system also includes a High Definition Image with a 2 x digital zoom .
Fujifilm Full High Definition Surgical Visualization System — Designed for a wide variety of surgical applications, this solution includes a portfolio of rigid surgical scopes, cameras and video processing systems. The camera includes optimized settings for various clinical specialties. The system’s Full HD Video Controller offers edge enhancement, automatic gain control (AGC) and dynamic contrast function. In addition, selective color enhancement, smoke reduction and grid removal features all enhance observation abilities. A High Power 200 LED Light Source allows the user to adjust the intensity of the light from 5-100%—providing operational efficiency and lowering power consumption.
“Fujifilm’s innovation combines exceptional image quality with a durable, low profile, easy to use scope. It has the potential to move us forward into the realm of Reduced Port Surgery and ultimately improve how minimally invasive surgeries are performed in the future,” says Paul G. Curcillo, II, MD, FACS, Chief of Minimally Invasive Surgery and Director of Minimally Invasive Surgical Initiatives and Development at Fox Chase Cancer Center based in Philadelphia, PA and pioneer in Single Port Access surgery.
Based on a “patient-first” philosophy, Fujifilm’s mission is to develop innovations focused on practical applications that can be utilized in everyday patient care while raising the standard of care. Fujifilm technologies will allow surgeries to be performed with less pain while reducing recovery times and improving patient outcomes.
“The Ultra-Slim Video Laparoscope is unique compared with all the other scopes I have used since beginning Single Port Access Surgery in 2007. It is a small, lightweight scope providing excellent image quality and less muscle fatigue on holding the scope continuously during procedures,” says Stephanie A. King MD, Director of Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery at Fox Chase Cancer Center.