Karl Storz is the First Company to Introduce Laser-Resistant Uretero-Reno-Fiberscopes with Laserite Material; Revolutionary Flex-X2(TM) Combines Proven Capabilities with Superior Durability During Urologic Procedures.

CULVER CITY, Calif. -- Karl Storz Endoscopy-America, Inc., the leader in minimally invasive urology, launched its Flex-X2(TM) Uretero-Reno-Fiberscopes during this year's American Urological Association (AUA) Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas. The Flex-X2(TM) Uretero-Reno-Fiberscopes represent a significant accomplishment because they offer increased resistance to laser damage during use, which has become all too common an occurrence during surgeries.

AUA attendees were given an opportunity to examine the capabilities and responsive handling of the new generation of ureteroscopes, which offer all of the performance of the original Flex-X(TM) but with significant advantages in durability.

"The introduction of the original Flex-X(TM) was revolutionary," said Howard Klymas, Marketing Manager, Karl Storz. "The revolution now continues with the Flex-X2(TM) Uretero-Reno-Fiberscope. The key feature of the Flex-X2(TM) is its laser-resistant distal tip with Laserite(TM) material that helps resolve the issue of scope damage caused by laser burns. That also helps protect the hospital's investment from unnecessary downtime and repairs."

Like its predecessor, the Flex-X2(TM) offers active 270-degree up and down deflection with intuitive single-lever control. By enhancing complex navigation and adapting to a range of anatomical shapes, the Flex-X2(TM) Uretero-Reno-Fiberscope eases entry into the lower pole calyces and the entire renal collecting system. An ergonomically designed handle combined with the device's light weight offers greater operating comfort, and the 7.5 Fr. distal shaft gives physicians easy access during procedures. A stiffer 8.5 Fr. shaft is engineered from proprietary polymers to promote faster, easier passage of the uretero-reno-fiberscope.

"The crush-resistant shaft of the Flex-X2(TM) also resists back-table trauma, which is a frequent cause of shaft breakage," Klymas added. "And with 1:1 rotation, the shaft is torque stable. The Flex-X2(TM) Uretero-Reno-Fiberscope also provides improved strain relief for greater durability, and a unique shock absorber system enhances maneuverability."

Karl Storz Endoscopy-America, Inc. is an affiliate of Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG, an international leader for 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 800-421-0837 or visit the company's Web site at www.karlstorz.com.