Olympus Launches VISERA ELITE III Surgical Visualization PlatformAn innovative and open solution bringing together multiple observation modes for future-proof endoscopic surgery

September 14, 2022


Surgical visualization platform VISERA ELITE III, VISERA ELITE III video systems center OLYMPUS OTV-S700, 4K camera head CH-S700-XZ-EA


Tokyo, September 14, 2022 - Olympus Corporation (“Olympus” - Director, Representative Executive Officer, President and CEO: Yasuo Takeuchi) today announced the launch of VISERA ELITE III, its newest surgical visualization platform that addresses the needs of healthcare professionals (HCPs) for endoscopic procedures across multiple medical disciplines. VISERA ELITE III offers various imaging functions, all supported in one system enabling minimally invasive therapies such as Laparoscopic Colectomy and Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy. Future software upgrades will advance surgical imaging technology and allow for individual configurations that facilitate seamless support of various surgical applications leading to a reduction in investment costs. VISERA ELITE III will be available in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), parts of Asia, Oceania, and Japan in September 2022 or later.

“With VISERA ELITE III, we provide a best-in-class surgical visualization platform designed for multiple medical specialties and configurations, allowing HCPs to fully focus on the patient during surgery. By incorporating the technologies of its predecessors VISERA ELITE II and VISERA 4K UHD into one platform, VISERA ELITE III enhances the quality of endoscopic surgery, contributes to improved efficiency in the operating room, and hereby elevates the standard of care,” said Kanichi Matsumoto, Global Head of Surgical Endoscopy at Olympus.

One System for All

VISERA ELITE III system integrates the 3D and infrared1 imaging functions from VISERA ELITE II, and the 4K imaging function from VISERA 4K UHD system. It also supports fluorescence guided surgery as well as NBI2, a unique observation mode developed by Olympus. By providing surgeons with multiple observation modes, the all-in-one system supports standardization and increases efficiency in the operating room. Users can also set up customized departmental profiles on VISERA ELITE III for different medical disciplines such as general surgery, urology, gynecology, ENT surgery and more. The platform is compatible with existing endoscopes from VISERA ELITE II.

1 Infrared imaging is a special light observation function for observing the fluorescence generated by administering a fluorescent agent called indocyanine green (ICG) and by applying near-infrared light (light with a wavelength of 700-780 nm).

2 NBI (Narrow Band Imaging) is an imaging technique for examining features such as the small blood vessels in mucosa and the surface patterns. NBI highlights tissue by illuminating it with two narrow bands (wavelengths) of light that are absorbed by the hemoglobin in blood.

Innovation That Grows with Need

The platform allows software upgrades to add new surgical imaging functions as needed. Switching entire surgical visualization systems to access the latest technology is no longer necessary, which not only sets a new standard and provides a high degree of flexibility, but also makes VISERA ELITE III a future-proof investment.

Improved Image Quality for More Focus

VISERA ELITE III system comes with a focus adjust mode during 4K surgical observation and is equipped with the EDOF (Extended Depth of Field) function that allows precise endoscopic observations through continuous broad focus and seamless magnification. In addition, it provides the C-AF (Continuous Auto Focus) capability that automatically adjusts focus in accordance with the movement of the camera head and endoscope. This facilitates clearer image capture, both up close and at a greater distance, so that HCPs experience less stress during surgery, allowing them to concentrate on the patient and the procedure's outcome.


VISERA ELITE III combines Sony Corporation’s state-of-the-art digital imaging technologies with the expertise and experience in medical product development that Olympus has accumulated over decades as a leading endoscope manufacturer and addresses the growing needs of hospitals as recognized through extensive exchange with customers.

In developing VISERA ELITE III, Sony Olympus Medical Solutions, a joint venture company of Sony and Olympus, optimized each technology and image processing function specifically for medical applications to create the most advanced, open, and versatile surgical visualization platform Olympus has ever brought to market.

About Olympus

Olympus is passionate about creating customer-driven solutions for the medical, life sciences, and industrial equipment industries. For more than 100 years, Olympus has focused on making people’s lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling by helping to detect, prevent, and treat disease; furthering scientific research; and ensuring public safety.
In its Endoscopic Solutions business, Olympus uses innovative capabilities in medical technology, therapeutic intervention and precision manufacturing to help healthcare professionals deliver diagnostic, therapeutic and minimally invasive procedures to improve clinical outcomes, reduce overall costs and enhance the quality of life for patients. Starting with the world’s first gastrocamera in 1950, Olympus’ Endoscopic Solutions portfolio has grown to include endoscopes, laparoscopes, and video imaging systems, as well as customer solutions and medical services. For more information, visit www.olympus-global.com and follow our global Twitter account: @Olympus_Corp.

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