Olympus Partners with W. L. Gore to Expand EndoTherapy Product Line Globally

Olympus and W. L. Gore: A New Era in EndoTherapy Distribution

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing patient care and expanding its product portfolio, Olympus Corporation, a leader in medical technology, has partnered with W. L. Gore & Associates, a renowned material science company. This collaboration comes as part of an international distribution agreement that will allow Olympus to exclusively distribute Gore’s innovative biliary endoprostheses, specifically the GORE® VIABIL® devices designed for endoscopic placement. This agreement was announced on October 6, 2025, and marks a significant step for both companies in the healthcare sector.

The GORE® VIABIL® biliary endoprosthesis is a fully covered self-expanding metal stent that provides a unique solution for managing biliary strictures. Its cutting-edge design includes a non-porous ePTFE/FEP (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene/fluorinated ethylene propylene) coating, which not only creates a durable barrier but also minimizes tumor ingrowth, a common challenge in stenting procedures. This feature distinguishes it from traditional stents and underscores the innovative approach both Olympus and Gore are committed to.

Expanding Global Reach

Olympus plans to initiate the marketing of these biliary endoprostheses in the coming months, starting with Europe and gradually extending to other markets worldwide. By incorporating the GORE® VIABIL® stents into its existing hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) portfolio, Olympus aims to strengthen its position in the rapidly growing market for gastrointestinal (GI) metallic stents. This partnership not only broadens the range of therapeutic options available to healthcare professionals but also enhances treatment outcomes for their patients.

A Shared Vision for Innovation

The collaboration blends the technological expertise and innovative spirit of both companies. As Mike Callaghan, the Global Vice President/General Manager of EndoTherapy at Olympus, stated, "We are excited to collaborate with Gore as a global leader in innovative technologies. The VIABIL stent is a critical device for gastrointestinal patient care, and this agreement will complement our industry-leading ERCP range." This partnership signifies a shared vision to elevate healthcare standards by delivering advanced therapeutic solutions that meet the evolving needs of patients.

Jake Goble, the Head of Gore’s Surgical and Cardiac Solutions business unit, also voiced enthusiasm for the partnership. He believes that the proven commercial expertise of Olympus’s EndoTherapy team will perfectly complement Gore’s medical device innovation, ultimately benefiting patients with unique solutions moving forward.

Commitment to Quality Patient Care

Both companies have long histories of delivering high-quality care through their medical products. Since its establishment, Olympus has been dedicated to developing innovative solutions for early detection, diagnosis, and minimally invasive treatment of diseases, aligning with its mission to enhance patient lives. Similarly, Gore has been at the forefront of addressing complex technical challenges in demanding environments, including those within the human body. With an experienced team of around 13,000 associates, Gore’s commitment to transforming industries and improving lives speaks volumes about its dedication to healthcare advancements.

As the partnership unfolds, healthcare professionals can expect a comprehensive approach to GI stenting that prioritizes patient safety and effectiveness. The introduction of the GORE® VIABIL® stent not only represents technological advancement but also embodies a commitment to collaboration that aims to set new standards in patient care.

In conclusion, this exciting development between Olympus and W. L. Gore & Associates heralds a promising future for healthcare professionals and patients alike. With both companies’ dedication to innovation and improvement, the integration of the GORE® VIABIL® biliary endoprosthesis into Olympus’s offerings is set to enhance treatment modalities and outcomes in the field of gastroenterology, ultimately making a significant impact on patient care across the globe.