Japanese firms Canon Medical Systems and Olympus have teamed up in a bid to increase the image quality of Endoscopic Ultrasonography (EUS) and expand across Japanese and European markets.
The newly announced partnership between the two will see Canon Medical develop and manufacture diagnostic ultrasound systems for use in Endoscopic Ultrasonography whilst Olympus will perform the sales and marketing efforts.
Both companies have said that the aim of the partnership between Canon's Aplio i8002 diagnostic ultrasound system for EUS and Olympus' Ultrasound Endoscope is to expand business in the diagnostic imaging market, starting in Japan with plans to push into Europe.
EUS’ methodology involves using an ultrasound attached to the tip of an endoscope to observe the outer organs from the stomach and duodenum, which compared to an approach from the body surface, allows for clinicians to get much clearer images.
Toshio Takiguchi, CEO of Canon Medical Systems said: “We have a long history in diagnostic ultrasound systems and have developed unique technologies that contribute to the early detection of diseases in cooperation with doctors around the world.
“We are very pleased to collaborate with Olympus, a leading endoscope manufacturer, in the EUS field, which we have not been able to cover adequately until now, to deliver superior solutions to more patients.”
The announcement comes after Canon saw success in its radiography department, with a US-published white paper finding that the company’s Intelligent Noise Reduction system for imaging was able to improve image quality in pediatric x-rays.
Frank Drewalowski, executive officer of Olympus Corporation, said: “Olympus aims to improve patients’ quality of life through early diagnosis made available with Endoscopic Ultrasound Systems. In the field of EUS, diagnostic ultrasound systems are very important, and we are pleased to have a cooperative relationship with Canon Medical, which has advanced ultrasound imaging technology.
“Canon Medical and Olympus will continue to introduce products and technology that address the needs of the patients, healthcare professionals, and the broader medical industry.”
