Hamburg, 10/09/2020 | Press Release | Medical Systems Olympus Launches ENDO-AID, an AI-Powered Platform for Its Endoscopy System

Olympus Corporation (President: Yasuo Takeuchi) today announced the launch of ENDO-AID*, a cutting-edge platform powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and including the endoscopy application ENDO-AID CADe (computer-aided detection) for the colon. This new AI platform enables real-time display of automatically detected suspicious lesions and works in combination with the recently introduced EVIS X1, Olympus’ most advanced endoscopy system to date.

Gastroenterology
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As a global leader in designing and delivering innovative solutions for medical and surgical procedures, Olympus aims to improve the health and quality of life of patients by providing advanced medical technologies. Its latest endoscopy system, EVIS X1, was developed to set new standards for image detection, characterization, staging, and treatment. With the newly introduced endoscopy CAD (computer-aided detection/diagnosis) platform ENDO-AID, Olympus is now enhancing the capabilities of EVIS X1 through AI technology, aiming to elevate the standard of endoscopy around the world – whether for applications to disorders of the stomach, esophagus or other gastrointestinal organs.

ENDO-AID CADe: real-time computer-aided detection for endoscopy

ENDO-AID CADe is an application for computer-aided detection powered by AI which runs on ENDO-AID. It uses a complex algorithm via a neural network developed and trained by Olympus. With this new application, the system’s sophisticated machine learning can alert the endoscopist in real time when a suspected colonic lesion (such as a polyp, malignant neoplasm or adenoma) appears on the screen.

ENDO-AID CADe was developed toward the following improvements:

  • Improved observational performance in adenoma detection: By providing visual support, ENDO-AID CADe aims to improve the observational performance of the endoscopist’s adenoma detection.
  • Support of the colonoscopy screening process: The system provides visual support during screening, allowing the endoscopist to focus on any abnormalities indicated by the software regardless of the experience level of the endoscopist.
  • Efficient endoscopy procedure: Due to the simple and intuitive display of lesions, ENDO-AID CADe has the potential to make endoscopy easier and more efficient for the endoscopist by reducing excessive eye movements.

A first step towards the future of endoscopic diagnosis and therapy

With ENDO-AID, the latest feature of the EVIS X1 endoscopy system, Olympus has created the basis and infrastructure for the installation of future applications supported by AI. “At Olympus we are committed to innovation and driving our research and development with passion,” says Frank Drewalowski, Head of Endoscopic Solutions Division, Olympus Corporation. “Especially in AI, we recognize the power of elevating endoscopic imaging to uncharted levels. Considering ENDO-AID as a first step, we are planning additional AI-powered applications for image detection and characterization – not only for colonoscopy.”

Prevention of colorectal cancer remains focus

There is a positive impact of an increase in ADR (adenoma detection rate) on the prevention of CRC (colorectal cancer)**. Supporting the identification of lesions, ENDO-AID CADe is designed to increase ADR***.Olympus aims to increase the quality of CRC screening and its preventive efficacy against CRC. The prevention of CRC is a core element of Olympus' endeavors in medical endoscopy and beyond.

“With the launch of ENDO-AID, we are not only providing endoscopists across the world with an additional innovative tool,” says Takaharu Yamada, Vice President, GI Endoscopy Business Leader, Endoscopic Solutions Division. “We are also preparing for the future and following our vision of putting CRC in the history books.”

Official launch at United European Gastroenterology Week (UEGW)

During the virtual UEGW from October 11 to 13, ENDO-AID will be presented to the public for the first time. ENDO-AID is initially and commercially being launched in Europe beginning in November, followed shortly afterwards by some Middle East, African and Asian-Pacific countries. Japan, the Americas and China markets will follow at a later time after complying with laws and regulations in each region. EVIS X1 and ENDO-AID are manufactured by Olympus Medical Systems Corporation. The company and product names specified in this release are the trademarks or registered trademarks of Olympus.

About EVIS X1 and ENDO-AID

For further information, please visit: www.olympus.eu/evisx1

Notes and references

*Product name: Endoscopy CAD system

**Corley, D.A.; Jensen, C.D.; Marks, A.R.; et al. Adenoma Detection Rate and Risk of Colorectal Cancer and Death. N Engl J Med. 2014; 370: 1298-1306. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4036494/. Accessed in October 2020

***Compared to WLI (white light imaging) without CADe

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Matthias Gengenbach

Head of Corporate Communications EMEA
Olympus Europe SE & Co. KG

Mobile: +49 15142369420
E-mail: matthias.gengenbach@olympus.com