Olympus Unveils AI-Driven Emphysema Screening for Enhanced Patient Care

Olympus Launches Innovative AI Technology for Emphysema Screening

On June 10, 2025, Olympus Corporation, a renowned medical technology company, announced the full market release of its groundbreaking AI-driven emphysema screening program known as SeleCT™ Screening. This new platform aims to improve the identification of severe emphysema patients who may benefit from a minimally invasive treatment procedure called bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR).

AI Technology Revolutionizing Patient Identification

The SeleCT™ Screening platform, developed with the support of 4DMedical, is designed to automatically review existing chest CT scans within healthcare systems. This automated analysis aids in pinpointing potential candidates for BLVR treatment using the Spiration™ Valve System. Upon identifying a potentially eligible patient, physicians are promptly notified, facilitating timely evaluations and treatment opportunities.

Dr. Niral Patel, an interventional pulmonologist at UC San Diego Health, articulates the significance of this technology, emphasizing that matching patients with the right treatment options has traditionally been a time-consuming task. He stated, "Getting to them faster is critical, as many of our severe emphysema patients are in urgent need of care."

Understanding Emphysema and Its Challenges

Emphysema is a progressive form of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), characterized by deterioration in the elasticity and enlargement of the lung's air sacs. This condition can lead to significant breathing difficulties as hyperinflated lung lobes restrict airflow, making even simple activities a struggle for those affected.

Dr. Kyle Hogarth from the University of Chicago Medicine believes that bronchoscopic lung volume reduction represents a valuable option for patients dealing with severe emphysema. "This technology not only aids in quick diagnoses but also enhances the possibility for patients to regain aspects of life that their condition may have taken away," he noted.

Real-Life Impact: Stories of Hope

The real-world implications of this technology can be profound. Take, for example, the story of Russ Welchert, a patient diagnosed with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a genetic disorder linked to emphysema. Following a 20-year battle with increasing lung compromise, he sought out the BLVR procedure recommended by his pulmonologist. After receiving treatment with the Spiration™ Valve System, Russ observed substantial improvements in his lung function, enabling him to engage in everyday activities like walking and camping with family.

"Opting for lung volume reduction was a life-changing decision for me," Russ shared. "The treatment allows me to do the things I enjoy without the fear of carrying oxygen."

Addressing the COPD Epidemic

The statistics surrounding emphysema and COPD highlight the urgency of the situation: over three million Americans are diagnosed with emphysema, and nearly 16 million adults in the U.S. suffer from COPD. Alarmingly, a significant number of cases remain undiagnosed, with studies indicating that 80% of adults with COPD globally have yet to receive a proper diagnosis.

"Access to advanced treatment options is vital for patients suffering from conditions like emphysema," remarked Swarna Alcorn, Vice President of Respiratory at Olympus America, Inc. She expressed enthusiasm for the full launch of the AI-powered SeleCT™ Screening tool, which aims to bridge the gaps in care for these patients.

Innovative Solutions for Better Outcomes

The Spiration Valve System, an innovative treatment method, utilizes an umbrella-shaped device placed in specific airways of the lung during a brief bronchoscopic procedure. This device enables airflow direction from damaged lung areas to healthier sections, thus expanding lung function and improving the patient's ability to breathe.

While the Spiration Valve System offers many benefits, it’s crucial to acknowledge possible associated adverse events, such as pneumothorax and exacerbation of COPD symptoms. Patients are encouraged to consult provided educational resources for comprehensive information regarding treatment and its implications.

A Commitment to Better Health

Olympus reaffirms its dedication to enhancing global health by partnering with healthcare providers to develop solutions and services that focus on early detection, thorough diagnosis, and less invasive treatment approaches aimed at improving patient outcomes. This commitment is intrinsic to Olympus's mission of making lives healthier and more fulfilling.

For organizations and healthcare professionals seeking to better address the challenges of emphysema, the introduction of SeleCT™ Screening represents a significant step toward transforming patient care and improving health outcomes across communities.