| [ Summary ] |
There has been the needs for a user to change the stiffness of a colonoscope at their discretion, during insertion. Auxiliary instruments, such as the splinting tube were developed to meet this need. However, since they are separated from the scope, it is cumbersome to handle them. Olympus has recently introduced three kinds of colonoscopes equipped with a variable stiffness function, which allows the user to easily change the stiffness of the endoscope, at will. To produce this variable stiffness function, an ultra-thin coil and wire system was adopted. These variable stiffness colonoscopes, therefore, have specifications comparable to those of conventional types, in terms of size, an optical system, angulation performance, etc. These three kinds of colonoscopes are available in different sizes and levels of stiffness so that they can accommodate differences in technique by various users. Regarding the handling of these variable stiffness colonoscopes, there are some points to consider in relation to preendoscopic inspection, and disinfection/storage after examination.
Olympus will continue to develop endoscopes, aiming at easier and safer examinations. |