PENTAX Medical Introduces EPK-i and i-FLEX Scopes, First High Definition Programmable Video Endoscopic System.

Advanced imaging technology increases efficiencies for GI exams and treatment

WASHINGTON, May 20 /PRNewswire/ -- PENTAX Medical, an industry leader in developing technologies that positively impact patient outcomes, today introduces the new EPK-i Video Endoscopic System and i-Flex scopes for U.S. physicians specializing in gastroenterology, hepatology, endoscopy and gastrointestinal (GI) surgery.

The EPK-i is the first computer-controlled digital processing system providing a resolution of 1.25 megapixels-a full 50% higher than other existing systems-the sharpest endoscopic image available today for both upper and lower GI tracks, thus improving reliability and efficiency in the diagnosis and treatment of GI conditions. It is being premiered this week at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) in Washington D.C., the largest and most prestigious meeting in the world for GI professionals.

Solving the problem of GI unit efficiency

The EPK-i directly addresses and begins to solve the frustration frequently expressed by physicians regarding increasing efficiencies of the GI unit, such as procedure productivity and minimizing downtime. This state-of- the art, fully integrated system provides uncomplicated advanced imaging technology, coupled with automation and productivity technology that provides better, clearer images for easier diagnosis; the ability to share images through a network for immediate consultation; the ability to automate benchmarking for algorithms allowing for more informed and expedited decision- making in unit and patient procedure timing; and always-on, on-demand remote equipment service.

Reducing time to the cecum significantly increases exam efficiency. PENTAX engineers took this, and other factors such as illumination capabilities, air/water channel and nozzle design, on-demand air pump, graduated insertion tube stiffness and control body ergonomics, into account when designing the high-definition PENTAX i-Flex scopes. These scopes are tested to accelerate physician time to the cecum, while achieving a more thorough exam.

About PENTAX Medical Company

PENTAX Medical Company, a division of PENTAX, America, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of PENTAX Corporation of Japan, specializes in the complete solution for video and fiber endoscopy equipment and computer technology and imaging products for diagnostic, therapeutic and research applications in the GI, ENT, and pulmonology fields. The company's primary market encompasses hospitals, physician practices and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). PENTAX's ACTive Solutions Network provides single source access to multiple vendors who specialize in developing software technologies and integrated systems that improve the efficiency of GI labs and ASCs. PENTAX is headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey. For additional information visit http://www.pentaxmedical.com/.

CONTACT: Ann Marie Connolly Garcia of PENTAX Medical, 1-800-431-5880, Ext. 2129, [e-mail]

Web site: http://www.pentaxmedical.com/