Newsletter
Development of the “Vacuum Insulated Scope Clear,” a Dedicated Vacuum Insulated Product for Medical Environments
Solving the Challenge of “Lens Smudging and Fogging” in Endoscopic and Robotic Surgery with 100 Years of Vacuum Insulation Technology
~ Demonstrations Completed in 41 Cases Domestically and Internationally, General Sales Scheduled for 2027 ~
Tiger Corporation (CEO: Yoshisato Kikuchi, Headquarters: Kadoma City, Osaka), a global leader in thermal control technology, has developed the “Vacuum Insulated Scope Clear.” This dedicated vacuum insulated product for medical environments applies the vacuum insulation technology we have cultivated over a century since our founding to solve the challenges of camera lens fogging and smudging during endoscopic and robotic surgeries.
Ahead of the general release in 2027, we are continuing demonstration experiments at medical institutions both in Japan and overseas, where the product has been earning high praise. Furthermore, this product will be exhibited at the “3rd Tokushukai Robotic Seminar” held on Sunday, July 19, and Monday (holiday), July 20, 2026.
Background of Development and Challenges in the Operating Room
Endoscopic surgery, such as laparoscopic and thoracoscopic surgery, is a surgical method that minimizes the physical burden on the patient by inserting a camera (endoscope) and surgical instruments through small incisions rather than making a large incision in the affected area. In these surgeries, if the scope (camera) inserted into the body cavity is not pre-warmed to approximately body temperature, condensation causes “fogging,” making it impossible to secure a safe field of vision. Furthermore, if the lens becomes smudged with bodily fluids during surgery, the scope must be removed and cleaned each time.
Currently, as a countermeasure in many medical settings, the “warm water method” is utilized, where heated saline solution is placed in a vacuum insulated container or a container with a heater to warm and clean the scope. However, depending on the type of container, there were issues such as “tipping over during surgery and causing a spill,” “the temperature dropping easily because the lid is left open,” and “high running costs for disposable parts.”
Medical professionals consulted with us, asking, “Could a specialized manufacturer use their technology to create an optimal, dedicated product for medical settings that resolves these issues?” In response, we have pooled our advanced vacuum insulation technology and design expertise cultivated over many years to develop a dedicated vacuum insulated product that solves these on-site challenges.
This product is lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle during surgery. Furthermore, all components are compatible with autoclave sterilization, allowing for repeated use, which directly contributes to reducing running costs for medical institutions.
Features of the “Vacuum Insulated Scope Clear”
- High Heat Retention
With its airtight lid and vacuum insulated container, it boasts excellent heat retention, keeping the saline solution warm even during lengthy surgeries. - Optimal Stability for the Operating Table and Compact Design
A specially designed stand provides high stability to prevent tipping. The compact design ensures it does not take up limited space on the operating table. - Operability that Allows Opening and Closing with One Hand (One-Hand Open/Close)
Features a lid that can be smoothly opened and closed with just one hand, making it easy to insert and remove the scope. - Economical with All Parts Compatible with Autoclave (High-Pressure Steam Sterilization)
The lid, main body, and dedicated stand can all be autoclaved. Since no disposable parts are required, it significantly reduces running costs and features an environmentally friendly design.
Conducting Demonstration Experiments Domestically and Internationally, Aiming for General Sales in 2027
In developing this product, we conducted demonstration experiments (a total of 41 cases) at medical institutions in Japan and overseas. Moving forward, we aim to build a sales network through collaboration with various businesses and launch general sales in 2027.
We will continue to apply the vacuum insulation technology we have cultivated for over 100 years to contribute to solving challenges in industrial sectors as well.
Chubu Tokushukai Hospital, Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery (8 Cases)
Comment from Dr. Yasutake Uchima, Chief Director of the Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery:
Using this product this time, we confirmed that it has high heat retention performance and a good effect in preventing lens fogging. Particularly in robotic surgery, securing a stable field of vision is crucial, and reducing the frequency of re-warming the camera and cleaning the lens could contribute to the smooth progress of the surgery.
We also consider it a significant advantage that it can be used repeatedly, keeping running costs down and leading to a reduction in environmental impact.
I think it is a very interesting product that applies Tiger Corporation’s strength in heat retention performance to the medical field. By reflecting the on-site feedback obtained in this demonstration experiment, we expect it to become an even more perfected medical device.
Saiseikai Yokohama City Eastern Hospital, Department of Urology (8 Cases)
Confirmed that the product can be applied without issue to surgeries using the surgical assist robot “da Vinci.” We received high praise for it being “lightweight, compact, and highly rated in terms of running costs,” achieving a 90% satisfaction rate from the surgeons in charge.
Hospital Nipo-Brasileiro, Brazil (25 Cases)
Conducted 25 cases in overseas medical settings. Received an evaluation stating, “The need to remove optical equipment for cleaning was reduced, improving safety,” achieving a 93% satisfaction rate. They showed a high intention to adopt the product.
Exhibiting at the 3rd Tokushukai Robotic Seminar (TROS)
We will exhibit an actual model of the “Vacuum Insulated Scope Clear” at our corporate exhibition booth during this seminar, which focuses on next-generation robotic surgery. Medical professionals will be able to experience the actual size, operability, and stability firsthand.
Dates:
Sunday, July 19 – Monday (Holiday), July 20, 2026
Venue:
Tokyo International Forum, Hall B5
Target Audience:
Medical professionals and related companies.
Media representatives wishing to cover the event are requested to contact the inquiry desk at the bottom of this release.
https://www.tiger-corporation.com/ja/jpn/support/inquiry/inquiry-product-images-and-coverage
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