Olympus has announced the full market release of SeleCT Screening, an artificial intelligence-powered emphysema screening platform designed to identify patients who may benefit from bronchoscopic lung volume reduction treatment.
Developed in collaboration with 4DMedical (ASX:4DX), the SeleCT Screening tool automatically analyses chest CT scans across healthcare systems to detect candidates for treatment with devices such as Olympus' Spiration Valve System.
This minimally invasive procedure helps improve lung function by reducing the volume of diseased lung tissue in emphysema patients.
When a qualifying patient is identified, the tool alerts physicians for timely follow-up, which could accelerate access to potentially life-changing care.
"Matching the right patients to the right treatment opportunity is not easy. The process takes time—and that's a resource many of our patients don’t have," said Dr. Niral Patel of UC San Diego Health. "This technology helps us get to them faster."
Over 3 million Americans are diagnosed with emphysema, a progressive form of COPD, though actual numbers may be far higher due to underdiagnosis.
The Spiration Valve, placed via a bronchoscopic procedure, redirects airflow to healthier parts of the lung, reducing shortness of breath and improving quality of life.
Russ Welchert, who lives with a rare genetic form of emphysema, shared that treatment with the Spiration Valve "transformed my life" allowing him to enjoy everyday activities again.
At the time of reporting, 4DMedical's share price was $0.29.