Olympus Corp., Tokyo, has entered into an agreement to acquire Quest Photonic Devices B.V. for approximately EUR50 million including milestone payments to strengthen its surgical endoscopy capabilities. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Quest offers advanced fluorescence imaging systems (FIS) for the medical field, enabling more surgical endoscopy capabilities, compared to conventional imaging technologies.
Fluorescence imaging refers to special light imaging technologies that utilize the properties of fluorescent dyes directed to specific anatomical structures. By using targeted dyes, in combination with specific light wavelengths, tissues or lesions that are nearly invisible under normal white light become visible.
Olympus’ existing laparoscopic imaging system, VISERA ELITE II, is already equipped with fluorescence imaging technology. VISERA ELITE II uses near-infrared light to identify blood vessels or lymph nodes under the surface tissues, aiming to assist surgeons in performing safer procedures with lower complication risks. The Quest technology acquired is intended to expand opportunities for Olympus in this field.
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Quest offers technologies for multi-spectral imaging and imaging systems for medical applications, ranging from fluorescence imaging to photodynamic therapy. Company officials say the acquisition strengthens Olympus’ position in the medical imaging equipment sector and delivers capabilities (including 3D and 4K imaging) to surgeons, to “make the invisible visible.”
Quest’s lead product line is the Quest Spectrum Fluorescence Imaging System, which enables fluorescence-guided surgery for open and minimally invasive procedures.
“We are delighted to incorporate Quest’s advanced FIS capabilities into our comprehensive medical imaging portfolio,” says Kanichi Matsumoto, global head of surgical endoscopy at Olympus. “The combination of the Quest Spectrum product line’s leading FIS technologies with Olympus’ existing laparoscopic imaging system VISERA ELITE II will enable Olympus to offer surgeons a wide range of high-quality fluorescence imaging solutions.”
