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Olympus Launches its First Endoscopic Balloon Dilator
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Olympus announced 510(k) clearance for its new EZDilate multistage endoscopic balloon dilator, which provides improved precision and procedural control.
“I am excited about the release of the Olympus EZDilate balloons,” Paul Akerman, MD, a gastroenterologist at Rhode Island Hospital, said in a press release. “The introduction of the balloons will help complete the Olympus EndoTherapy devices selection. The new balloon has the advantages of improved visualization through the inflated balloon, along with the mid balloon endoscopic marker that will assist in accurately placing the balloon. I look forward to using the balloon in clinical practice.”
According to the press release, the device’s fast inflation, insertion and deflation enable greater procedural efficiency, and its softer atraumatic tip and low profile balloon catheter protect sensitive anatomy while improving insertion and navigation efficiency. Its center visual marker allows placement and positioning to be more precise and stricture assessment to be more accurate, while its rounded balloon shoulders and “ultra-clear material” enhance stricture visualization. Finally, research has shown that EZDilate achieves target inflation diameters more accurately than other balloons without the need for overinflation, and new half-millimeter interval sizing allows for gradual dilation and more unique diameters compared to the industry standard.
“This new device is exciting for its advancements in balloon dilation precision and also because of the opportunities it presents our customers for accessing a more complete and cost-effective line-up of EndoTherapy devices from Olympus,” Richard Reynolds, executive vice president of sales and marketing of the Medical Systems Group at Olympus Corporation of the Americas, said in a press release. “The announcement builds upon our continuing commitment to the triple aim of health care reform — increased quality of care, reduced costs and improved patient satisfaction."
The device will be available through the Ambulatory Surgical Center Select Program, according to the press release.
Disclosures: Akerman reports he is a contracted physician with Olympus, and Reynolds reports he is an employee of Olympus.