Medtronic, a leader in healthcare technology, has announced the launch of the Endoflip 300 impedance planimetry system in India. This innovative solution provides real-time measurements of the esophagus, pylorus, and anal sphincter during endoscopic evaluations of esophageal motility disorders. These disorders can disrupt the normal swallowing process (peristalsis), leading to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chest pain, regurgitation, and heartburn. They are often misdiagnosed as they can overlap with GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) and other gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. The new technology offers a minimally invasive method to measure the change in the esophagus’s dimensions as it transports food and liquid into the stomach.
Doctors typically utilize the EndoFlip measurement balloon catheter to assess the health of the tube that carries food to the stomach, providing real-time diameter estimates of the measurement area. The system can measure and display diameter estimates at up to 16 points within the balloon while also showing balloon pressure, potentially allowing for more accurate diagnoses and treatment planning from the initial endoscopy, thus alleviating unnecessary patient distress. By using a specialized balloon catheter, the system measures diameter and pressure to calculate cross-sectional area and distensibility, helping evaluate tissue compliance in various parts of the GI tract—particularly the esophagus, pylorus, and anal sphincter. These metrics are valuable for diagnostic evaluations and pre- or post-treatment assessments.
Endoflip’s real-time assessments can guide interventions (e.g., endoscopic dilation) and future evaluations. Assessing esophageal motility during endoscopy may accelerate clinical evaluations. The Endoflip 300 is the only technology available that enables surgeons to objectively assess the tightness of a fundoplication or the adequacy of a myotomy during procedures, which may improve procedural outcomes and reduce complications. This advanced tool aims to facilitate accurate diagnosis and management of esophageal motility disorders, conditions that are often overlooked during endoscopies, offering new opportunities for both patients and clinicians. Abhishek Bhargava, Senior Director of Medical Surgical at Medtronic India, stated, “Medtronic is dedicated to revolutionizing esophageal care in India by equipping physicians with advanced solutions to enhance clinical outcomes.
Our newly launched Endoflip 300 system empowers medical gastroenterologists and GI surgeons with objective data to expedite diagnosis and inform clinical decision-making for patients with esophageal motility disorders. As a global leader in healthcare technology, our mission remains to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life through continuous innovation.” The Endoflip 300 impedance planimetry system portfolio includes the Endoflip 300 impedance planimetry system, Endoflip measurement catheter, and Esoflip dilation catheter. Endoflip technology is now commercially available in India and has the potential to standardize motility diagnostic protocols and elevate patient care standards.
