Olympus launches new endoscopy system

Olympus has announced the launch of its new endoscopy system EVIS X1. It aims to improve outcomes from disorders of the stomach, colon, and oesophagus, as well as from bronchial diseases.

EVIS X1 supports screening and diagnosis through introducing new technologies to support how gastrointestinal disorders, such as colorectal cancer (CRC), or bronchial diseases are detected, characterised and treated. These include Extended Depth of Field (EDOF), Red Dichromatic Imaging (RDI), Texture and Colour Enhancement Imaging (TXI) as well as the already known and proven Narrow Band Imaging (NBI). Being committed to innovation, Olympus is also already developing future technologies – in particular featuring artificial intelligence (AI).

Frank Drewalowski, head of endoscopic solutions division, Olympus, said: “EVIS X1 is the latest innovation to build on our 100-year legacy of world-leading innovation and quality. We are proud that, with EVIS X1, we can support endoscopists around the world and help to elevate the standard of endoscopy across the board.” 

The key features of the EVIS X1 system include:

Extended Depth of Field (EDOF): EDOF combines two images at different focal lengths into one image to help aid diagnosis and confident decision-making. At the same time, the established Dual Focus function provides high magnification, which can be activated by the push of a button. This has been developed to reduce the necessity for focal adjustments and could improve efficiency and decrease the oversight rate.

Red Dichromatic Imaging (RDI): Gastrointestinal bleeding is a serious challenge, potentially involving considerable mortality and management costs. RDI enhances the visibility of deep blood vessels and GI bleeding sources, thereby helping to identify blood vessels that could require immediate treatment. It utilises green, amber and red wavelengths to visualise deep blood vessels. Easier identification of bleeding spots makes haemostasis quicker and easier whilst potentially improving the efficiency of any corresponding treatment.

Texture and Colour Enhancement Imaging (TXI): TXI supports better visibility of potential and extant lesions (such as areas of inflammation, flat or depressed lesions, or even tiny precursor lesions) through enhancing texture, brightness and colour to define subtle tissue differences more clearly. With its advanced imaging technology, TXI holds the potential to reinvent white light in endoscopy. By supporting better visibility of potential and extant lesions, TXI aims to contribute to higher detection rates and improve qualitative diagnosis.

Narrow Band Imaging (NBI): NBI is an already known optical technology that allows for a diagnosis through the creation of a contrast between vessels and surrounding mucosa. It uses specific blue and green wavelengths. NBI supports earlier detection of lesions and provides a detailed, higher-contrasted visualisation.

The next upcoming feature of the EVIS X1 system will be AI. Olympus is developing ways to integrate breakthroughs in deep learning into the world of image detection, characterisation, staging, and treatment.

Beyond introducing new features, EVIS X1 also provides newly established cross-compatibility between two formerly separate systems: EVIS LUCERA ELITE and EVIS EXERA III. This means that Olympus’ existing range of products can be combined to provide an extended portfolio of endoscopes for special procedures.

Especially by helping to facilitate screening and early detection of abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract, EVIS X1 could play a role in the prevention of colorectal cancer (CRC). In 2018, there were 1.8 million cases of colorectal cancer and 862,000 patient deaths worldwide. It is expected that the global burden of CRC will increase by 2030. For every 1% increase in adenoma detection rate (ADR), there is a 3% decrease in CRC risk.

Michal F. Kaminski, professor at the National Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, said: “Early detection and diagnosis is critical for CRC prevention. EVIS X1 is intuitive and gives endoscopists a range of innovative and proven tools to carry out minimally invasive, precise and effective procedures – enabling them to make truly-informed diagnostic and treatment decisions in the best interest of their patients. Among the new technologies especially TXI looks promising. It seems to provide more information to the endoscopist while maintaining a close to white light appearance. This will make it very easy to adapt to it.”

EVIS X1 is not only anticipated to serve healthcare professionals, hospital management and patients around the world but also follows Olympus’ implementation of its strategy.

Takaharu Yamada, vice president, GI Endoscopy Business, Global, Olympus Corporation, said: “Our purpose is to make people’s lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling. This launch also strengthens our global leadership in endoscopy and follows our focus of the corporate portfolio centering on the medical business.” 

EVIS X1 is initially being launched in EMEA (Europe, Middle East & Africa), Australia, India and Hong Kong. It is manufactured by Olympus Medical Systems Corporation.