Special Lithotripsy Fiber Protects Deflected Scopes

By HospiMedica International staff writers
Posted on 20 Oct 2016
A novel holmium laser fiber has a ball tip that can glide through a fully deflected endoscope in one easy, non-damaging step.

The Dornier GentleFlex is designed to efficiently transfer the holmium laser beam within the fiber core, achieving maximum power transmissions as a result of a proprietary quartz ferrule fiber design, which both boosts and extends the effectiveness of the optical fiber when used for treating kidney stones. A specially designed ball tip at the end of the fiber allows physicians to easily slide it through a curved (deflected) endoscope bore, without risking damage to the internal chamber of the scope.

Image: The ball tip of the GentleFlex holmium laser fiber (Photo courtesy of Dornier MedTech).

The GentleFlex holmium laser fiber enhances results when used with the Dornier Medilas H Solvo and UroPulse holmium lasers by providing an optimal optical and mechanical connection between the fiber and laser, and by matching the laser system’s proprietary parameters. A smart fiber recognition system further augments laser performance and overall patient results. The Dornier GentleFlex laser fiber and Medilas H Solvo and UroPulse holmium lasers are products of Dornier MedTech (Munich, Germany).

“The Dornier GentleFlex is the second laser innovation that Dornier has brought to market in the last six months,” said Abel Ang, CEO of Dornier MedTech. “Dornier Medtech is focused on creating innovative technologies that provide urologists safe, flexible, versatile and durable options to improve ease of use and handling of medical equipment.”

The holmium: YAG laser is a solid-state, pulsed laser that emits light at 2100 nm. It combines features of carbon dioxide (CO2) and neodymium:YAG lasers by providing both tissue cutting and coagulation in a single device. And since the holmium wavelength can be transmitted down optical fibers, it is especially suited for endoscopic surgery. Tissue ablation occurs superficially, providing for precise incision with a thermal injury zone ranging from 0.5-1 mm, providing a level of coagulation sufficient for adequate hemostasis.

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