KARL STORZ Prepares for Launch of the New Bipolar Resectoscope and AUTOCON(R) II 400 ESU; Single-Unit Solution Expands Capabilities of Surgeons Performing Urology Procedures.

CULVER CITY, Calif. -- Karl Storz Endoscopy-America, Inc., a world leader in endoscopic technology and instrumentation, announces that plans are nearing completion for the launch of an advanced Bipolar Resectoscope and its AUTOCON(R) II 400 ESU. The revolutionary design of the Bipolar Resectoscope will provide advantages in urology applications and will be compatible with existing KARL STORZ telescopes and sheaths. The innovative AUTOCON(R) II 400 Electrosurgical Unit (ESU) will offer surgeons a single unit capable of powering both bipolar and monopolar instruments while offering automatic output regulation and optimal hemostasis.

The AUTOCON(R) II 400 ESU is equipped for both bipolar and monopolar output, which enables surgeons to perform resection in either mode. "This is truly one unit that does it all," says Howard Klymas, KARL STORZ Group Marketing Manager, Urology. "While bipolar resection with saline irrigation solution offers clinical benefits for patients who are cardiac challenged or have other co-morbidities, monopolar resection offers an economical and time-tested treatment for otherwise healthy patients."

The AUTOCON(R) II 400 ESU offers specially modulated bipolar and monopolar C-Cut modes that result in less bleeding. The result is reproducible coagulation current and high cutting efficiency that reduces the need for subsequent coagulation. Klymas says, "Using the monopolar C-Cut or bipolar Saline-C-Cut modes for transurethral resection of the prostate, known as TURP, can reduce the need for transfusions and saves surgery time. For urology patients, the risk of TUR syndrome is minimized."

The technology demonstrated by the new Bipolar Resectoscope is based on the company's many years of experience in developing monopolar resectoscopes and bipolar instrumentation. The device uses the same principles as monopolar units, but is equipped with an active electrode, as well as a path for the current to return to the generator without requiring a neutral electrode/patient return pad. Both electrodes are completely insulated from the resectoscope sheath. Offering a unique bipolar loop design, handling of the device is identical to that of KARL STORZ monopolar resectoscopes. "In our new Bipolar Resectoscope, the current flow path has been redesigned to be isolated laterally and confined to only the smallest space," says Klymas. "For surgeons this offers a number of important benefits when combined with the AUTOCON(R) II 400 ESU.

Compatible with KARL STORZ SCB units, a service port on the rear of the device allows functions to be expanded as needed to accommodate future forms of HF treatment. "This means the unit remains future compatible," Klymas adds. "The AUTOCON(R) II 400 ESU provides a sound economical solution for today's surgeons while supporting the needs and capabilities of tomorrow."

Karl Storz Endoscopy-America, Inc. is an affiliate of Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG, an international leader for over 60 years in reusable endoscope technology, encompassing all endoscopic specialties. Based in Tuttlingen, Germany, Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG is a family-owned company that designs, engineers, manufactures and markets all its products with an emphasis on visionary design, precision craftsmanship and clinical effectiveness. For more information, call [phone] or visit the company's Web site at www.karlstorz.com.