A technology born in the EPFL Laboratory of Intelligent Systems
The foundation of our ENTscope is eight years into research on variable stiffness technologies for minimally invasive devices, conducted at the Laboratory of Intelligent Systems at EPFL. This research has yielded three items in our patent portfolio and six high-impact journal publications.
Enabling new minimally invasive sinus and larynx procedures with our variable stiffness ENTscope
Navigation of complex anatomies in the soft state
In the soft state, the variable stiffness ENTscope can safely access difficult-to-reach areas thanks to a tendon-driven bendable tip.
Switch to the rigid state at the press of a button
In its rigid state, the ENTscope holds its shape to provide precise control and reduce buckling, enabling stronger force application.
Precisely grasp tissue with forceps passed through the working channel
The ENTscope’s working channel enables the use of forceps or lasers to grasp and treat tissue. A bendable tendon-driven tip, integrated camera and light, and ergonomic handle provide precise control.
Revert instantly to the soft state
Using the lever, the ENTscope transitions between rigid and soft states in under a second, giving surgeons flexible control at every stage of the procedure.
The surgeon retracts the variable-stiffness ENTscope
The device contributed to a positive patient outcome.
Applications
Our variable stiffness technology is scalable to other endoscopic procedures, and we also hold proprietary technologies that extend beyond endoscopy, enabling new surgical approaches and improving patient outcomes across a wide range of medical procedures.
Sinus & larynx surgeries
Rigid endoscopes have limited reach and soft endoscopes are limited by a low applied force due to buckling.
Guidewires
Buckling limits pushability, and excessive flexibility often prevents advancing a stent along the guidewire.
Ureter & kidney surgeries
Doctors lose time when switching between rigid and flexible ureteroscopes during stone removal in the ureter and kidney.
Catheter ablations
Low applied force leads to poor-quality ablation and increases the risk of cardiac arrhythmia recurrence.
Get in touch for a demo
Have questions about our innovative endoscope technology? Our team is ready to provide you with the information you need to enhance your practice.