Abstract
Problem
The objective of this project is to establish if an advantage exists in using the C-View ‘trademark’ endoscope compared to a typical 0-degree Hopkins rod-lens telescope. The C-View ‘trademark’ endoscope is a novel design that provides a field of view up to ‘plus-minus’ 135-degrees about the optical axis and 360-degrees panoramically.
Methods
A cadaveric sheep glottis and trachea was examined using both a 4-mm Hopkins rod-lens telescope and a C-View ‘trademark’ endoscope (under development by Inter-Science, Inc., Troy, NY). At this time, the C-View ‘trademark’ endoscope prototype performs optical imaging only and does not include a means of internal illumination. Therefore, a separate external illumination source was used. Video taken during these examinations was analyzed and still images were obtained using the video editing software included with our stroboscopy tower (KayPentax Model 9295, Lincoln Park, NJ).
Results
The C-View ‘trademark’-based endoscope offers a sizable increase in field of view. Mucosal findings on the tracheal wall that could not be appreciated with the standard 0-degree model were readily apparent using this endoscope.
Conclusion
The C-View ‘trademark’ endoscope has enormous potential in the field of diagnostic endoscopy by creating a new working environment with an unmatched ultra-wide field of view. At this point, its use in living models or patients cannot be assessed without further development of the endoscope's illumination subsystem.
Significance
The true potential of this endoscopic system may not be fully realized until a prototype is developed which includes adequate illumination capabilities. Once perfected, this system will provide an enlarged field of view to any endoscopic surgeon or diagnostician. In the field of otolaryngology, this system has potential clinical relevance in many areas, including sinus endoscopy, laryngoscopy/tracheoscopy, esophagoscopy, and skull base surgery. Furture studies will assess manipulation of instruments in this new environment.
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