FDA clears video endoscope for select minimally invasive cardiac surgeries
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared expanded indications that allow the Karl Storz Tipcam1 Rubina video endoscope to be used during selected cardiac surgeries.
As heart operations become more and more minimally invasive, this technology gives clinicians high-resolution 4K imaging in addition to stereoscopic 3D imaging for enhanced spatial awareness. The device also enables near-infrared fluorescence imaging (NIR/ICG). All of these features are combined into one video endoscope. In addition, according to Karl Storz, the system's horizon control technology also automatically maintains image orientation as the scope is rotated to help maintain consistency and workflow efficiency.
The new clearance expands access to these advanced imaging features for surgeons performing complex cardiac interventions. Procedures include mitral valve repair and replacement, tricuspid valve repair, internal mammary artery mobilization for cardiac revascularization and structural heart interventions such as left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO).
Karl Storz said the Tipcam1 Rubina is already used across minimally invasive procedures for general surgery, gynecology, urology, colorectal surgery, bariatric surgery, hepatobiliary surgery and thoracic surgery.
Dave Fornell has covered healthcare for more than 17 years, with a focus in cardiology and radiology. Fornell is a 5-time winner of a Jesse H. Neal Award, the most prestigious editorial honors in the field of specialized journalism. The wins included best technical content, best use of social media and best COVID-19 coverage. Fornell was also a three-time Neal finalist for best range of work by a single author. He produces more than 100 editorial videos each year, most of them interviews with key opinion leaders in medicine. He also writes technical articles, covers key trends, conducts video hospital site visits, and is very involved with social media. E-mail: [email protected]