Olympus introduces the CleverCut3V Distal Wireguided sphincterotome (CleverCut3V DW) for endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedures.

Olympus, a global technology leader in designing and delivering innovative solutions for medical and surgical procedures, among other core businesses, introduces the 510(k) cleared CleverCut3V Distal Wireguided sphincterotome (CleverCut3V DW). Available preloaded with VisiGlide or sold separately, CleverCut3V DW promotes safety and efficiency through advanced technology.

According to Truven Health, approximately 600,000 endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography procedures are performed every year . Sphincterotomes are used during the procedure to enlarge the opening of the biliary sphincter via an electrical cauterizing wire or knife, allowing the endoscopist access to pancreaticobiliary anatomy for the purposes of bile duct stone extraction, treatment of papillary stenosis, and to carry out other diagnostic and therapeutic applications such as ductal sampling and stent placement. In cases of difficult anatomy or limited visibility, tissue damage can occur if the wire cuts into duodenal folds. The CleverCut3V DW CleverCut coating insulates the proximal portion of the cutting wire, helping to prevent such tissue damage and associated complications such as perforation.

Comment:The shift in endoscopy from diagnosis-only to include increasingly more therapeutic measures is seen as an exciting opportunity for endoscopists.