Karl Storz Unwraps Unique Tricam 3D Imaging System with the First Live 3D Telesurgery in U.S. at the 2003 Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons -SLS-.

Business Editors/Health/Medical Writers

CULVER CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 26, 2003

Now 3D Technology Provides Crisp, Clear Imaging

with Increased Depth Perception

Karl Storz Endoscopy-America, Inc., a leader in medical video imaging, will launch its Tricam(R) 3D Imaging System during a live telesurgery transmission to the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS) 12th International Congress and Endo Expo 2003, September 22-25th in Las Vegas. The first ever U.S. live 3D Telesurgery broadcast will originate from Northside Hospital in Atlanta, GA and be transmitted via fiber optic network to an estimated 600 leading endoscopic surgeons attending the SLS Plenary Session at the Las Vegas Paris Hotel on September 24.

This new Karl Storz video imaging system uses a single camera to provide a three-dimensional sense of depth, making it easier to maneuver instruments in minimally invasive surgical procedures requiring more detailed, precise techniques of reconstruction and suturing. This system is designed for use in all specialties, including gastrointestinal, general surgery, gynecology, and urology. The Tricam(R) 3D Imaging System facilitates these complex surgical maneuvers by delivering superb spatial resolution with no sacrifice in image quality. A single, stereo optical channel, with single image processing, eliminates "binocular" rivalry and eyestrain while maintaining uniform brightness and resolution. The surgeon views crisp, clear images through a pair of lightweight polarizing glasses, thus eliminating the use of heavy headsets and goggles.

"Now surgeons can have all the classic benefits of the integrated Tricam(R) optical zoom camera systems, plus 3D Imaging," commented Jackie Benz, Product Marketing Manager, Karl Storz. She added, "Interchangeable 2D and 3D camera heads and telescopes keep costs down and offer flexible convenience in the OR. Because the Tricam(R) 3D Imaging System is fully compatible with existing Karl Storz Tricam(R) SL-IPM CCUs, there's no need to buy a new control unit."

How Karl Storz 3D technology benefits minimally invasive surgery 

Karl Storz 3D system increases the benefits of 3 dimensional imaging in endoscopy, where previously surgeons had to learn to work in the 2D world. 3D provides potential for increased surgical accuracy while suturing and cutting, and more importantly, identifying and locating vital anatomical structures. These benefits could also mean improvement in safety, precision, and speed of procedures, and provide a valuable teaching/learning tool.

The system includes a single channel, stereo telescope, which transmits images to the camera head. The camera shutters rapidly between the right eye and left eye and sends the 3D image to the monitor. To view the 3D image, the surgeon need only wear a pair of special polarizing glasses, similar to sunglasses. Competitor systems use either a bulky headset, or 2 cameras linked together to get the 3D image, and a two-channel telescope. These systems can prove to be much more costly. The Karl Storz single channel telescope also minimizes any "binocular" rivalry, which can cause eyestrain and headaches for the surgeon.

The Karl Storz system, using 3D visualization, focuses on the surgeon or hospital desiring advanced technology to assist in the learning curve or advance surgical outcomes.

Karl Storz Endoscopy-America, Inc. is an affiliate of Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG, an international leader for more than 50 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 website at www.karlstorz.com.

The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS) is an educational, non-profit organization established to help ensure the highest standards for the practice of laparoscopic, endoscopic and minimally invasive surgery. SLS offers a unique, multi-disciplinary approach to the study and education of minimally invasive surgery by bringing together different medical specialties that uses the techniques and tools of minimally invasive surgery.

SLS has over 6,000 active members from around the world. Publications include JSLS, Journal of the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons, a quarterly, peer-reviewed interdisciplinary journal; and Laparoscopy, a semi annual publication with information on advancements, new developments and surgical techniques. For more information, visit www.sls.org or www.laparoscopy.org.