Olympus Corporation has launched its VISERA ELITE III surgical imaging platform in the US, developed to improve visualisation during surgery, streamline workflow efficiency, and provide flexibility for a range of specialities.
This marks the third major product jointly developed by SONY Olympus Medical, a partnership formed in 2013.
The platform features continuous auto focus (CAF), true 4K and 3D imaging, yellow enhancement (YE), narrow band imaging (NBI) technology, Endoeye rigid and flexible videoscopes, and fluorescence-guided surgery (IR/ICG) with full 4K White Light and high contrast magenta mode.
These functions are integrated into a software-driven single system supporting minimally invasive surgeries across various fields.
VISERA ELITE III supports specialities such as arthroscopy, bariatric, general surgery, gynaecological, hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) transplant, thoracic, and urological disciplines. It is also compatible with previous generation videoendoscopes.
Clinical benefits include comprehensive advanced imaging in one system and critical structure identification.
Additional benefits reported by Olympus include reduced suturing time with 3D horizon lock compared to 2D images, perfusion assessment through IR/ICG imaging, optimised fluorescence visibility via efficient LED, and integrated IT tools for video streaming and workflow automation.
The compact platform supports Olympus’ scope portfolio, including rigid and flexible videoscopes.
Olympus stated that the device is designed for treatment, video observation, and laparoscopic diagnosis, but warns that TYPE BF endoscopes connected to this platform must not be applied directly to the heart due to the risk of cardiac complications.
Olympus Americas' vice-president and surgical solutions regional business lead Darryl Rock said: “VISERA ELITE III is more than a platform — it’s a strategic enabler for modern operating rooms and is a cornerstone of Olympus’ SEE. TREAT. CONNECT. ecosystem.
“Its software-based architecture allows hospitals to scale capabilities while controlling capital investment and selectively activate advanced features like 3D and infrared imaging as needed.”
In December 2025, Olympus committed $150m to a new venture capital fund, with the intention of allocating the funds to promising medtech startups in the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and urology sectors.
