Fully Rotatable Bronchoscope Expands Clinicians Reach

A new bronchoscope provides physicians and surgeons with unparalleled maneuverability and flexibility within the endobronchial tree.

The Olympus BF-190 bronchoscopes achieve this flexibility through the combination of a unique rotary function and wider tip angulations, allowing the physicians to access areas of the lung that may not be easily reached with current generation bronchoscopes. Ergonomically, the rotary function has been estimated to reduce hand torque by up to 82%, which could translate to a significant reduction in operator hand fatigue and injury.


The BF-190 is powered by Olympus' EVIS EXERA III Universal Platform, a high definition TV (HDTV) imaging system compatible with all Olympus endoscopes used in bronchoscopy, endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS), gastroenterology, laparoscopic and arthroscopic surgery, and more. The flexibility of the platform reduces the need for multiple video systems, thereby improving asset management throughout the hospital. The HDTV image, along with other enhanced features, provides a clear and detailed endoscopic image that allows for more precise observation. The Olympus BF-190 bronchoscope is a product of Olympus (Tokyo, Japan).

“The BF-190s represent one of the most significant advancements in bronchoscopes in over eight years,” said Luke Calcraft, President of the Medical Systems Group at Olympus America. “We believe that the technology provides unique functionality which, when combined with the brightest, clearest image on the market has the potential to transform the way bronchoscopies are performed throughout the world.”

“Increased maneuverability is perceived to be the most notable improvement in functionality compared to existing bronchoscopes,” said Ali Musani, MD, director of interventional pulmonology at the National Jewish Hospital (Denver, CO, USA). “Translating this feature to bronchoscopes will allow for easier access to traditionally difficult-to-reach locations and in some cases may permit navigation into areas impossible to reach with current generation bronchoscopes.”

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