A Simple Procedure and Novel Technology Provide an Alternative to Sedated Esophageal Exams
ORANGEBURG, N.Y., Oct. 27, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The report by the New York City Office of the Chief Medical Examiner on the death of Joan Rivers points to a "predictable complication of medical therapy." Vision-Sciences (Nasdaq:VSCI) believes one solution to these complications is a sedation-free exam for the patient. The Vision Sciences® TNE Endoscopy System with patented EndoSheath® Technology offers physicians the ability to visualize, diagnose, and treat a patient's upper airway, throat, esophagus, and stomach without the need for the complications of sedation.
"This no-sedation method is a viable first line approach in diagnosing diseases of the esophagus. The lack of a need for sedation eliminates the risks and complications associated with sedation and physicians should be discussing this alternative to traditional endoscopy with their patients," stated Howard Siegel, M.D., founding partner at Manhattan Internal Medicine Associates, P.C.
The Vision-Sciences innovative endoscopy technology and the transnasal approach avoid the use of propofol sedation, allowing patients to undergo the diagnostic exam while alert and awake. Due to the small size of the TNE System, the endoscope can be comfortably passed through the nasal passage instead of through the mouth, avoiding the patient gag reflex – a significant factor in the requirement for sedation in traditional oral exams.
"A key necessity in stopping the growth of esophageal cancer is a safe, cost-effective, efficient diagnostic option for physicians," stated Howard Zauberman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Vision-Sciences. "We believe our TNE System combined with our EndoSheath Technology provides the ideal instrument for the mounting need in diagnosing and managing esophageal disorders."
Vision-Sciences is currently the only provider of an FDA-cleared line of transnasal endoscopes for this procedure that utilizes the patented EndoSheath technology, a cost-effective and safe solution for patients, doctors, hospitals, and other medical facilities. With EndoSheath Technology, the TNE endoscope is placed inside a new, sterile cover for each exam. The sheath is discarded after each procedure, guarding against the potential of an unclean endoscope and the risk of bacterial or viral cross-contamination with the next patient.
Howard Zauberman, President and Chief Executive Officer, is available for in-person meetings or phone interviews. Please contact Mitch Kayden at (845) 709-5607 or mkayden@onitdigital.com for more information or to set up an interview.
About Vision-Sciences, Inc.
Vision-Sciences, Inc. designs, develops, manufactures and markets products for flexible endoscopy. The Company's unique product lines feature a streamlined visualization system and proprietary sterile, disposable microbial barrier, known as EndoSheath® technology, providing users with efficient and cost effective endoscope turnover while enhancing patient safety. Information about Vision-Sciences' products is available at www.visionsciences.com.
Vision-Sciences owns the registered trademarks Vision Sciences®, EndoSheath®, EndoWipe®, Slide-On®, and The Vision System®.