Endoscope System Prevents Laser Damage
Gyrus ACMI developed a system, the Endoscope Protection System, designed to prevent damage occurring to the distal end of flexible uteroscopes from holmium lasers. The product introduction was described by Medical News Today.
In particular, the tool can be used in combination with the Gyrus ACMI DUR-D Digital Flexible Ureteroscope (introduced by Gyrus in September 2006) and the included ultra miniature Complementary Metal Oxide Semi-Conductor (CMOS) distal sensor technology. These tools work with the EPS software to precisely identify the position of the laser fiber.
The software system works through feedback from the imaging chip of the CMOS at the distal end of the scope. Information procured instructs the laser to cease functioning if the fiber is moved into a position within the working components of the endoscope device. It is in that location that the laser can cause damage to the endoscope.
Two modes of operation are available with the EPS software. The “Alert Only” mode can determine the position of the laser fiber. It then provides an audible alert, in addition to flashing a “Check Fiber” message on the screen of the endoscopy monitor.
In the “Control Laser” mode, the control unit and the DUR-HL20 are connected. In this mode, the laser can only be activated if the laser is within the safe field of view. However, if the laser is incorrectly placed, an audible alert occurs, the monitor flashes “Check Fiber”, and the laser goes to standby. The laser ceases within 100 milliseconds and will only start after the laser is replaced into the correct position and reactivated to the ready mode.
The benefit of this technology is the prevention of damage to endoscopy equipment, ureteroscopes in this case. Data suggests that almost 70 percent of malfunction to those scopes results from laser damage.
November 7, 2007 Related topics: Product Launches, New Technology & Innovation, Quality, Safety, Errors, Obstetrics, Gynecology & Neonatology, Endoscopy