Key Points:
- Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children has adopted the EvoEndo single-use endoscopy system to conduct anesthesia-free endoscopies for pediatric patients aged over 5, as reported by local news affiliate WFTV on February 23.
- This initiative positions the facility as one of the few hospitals in the region to offer EvoEndo, with procedures overseen by Dr. Yamen Smadi, a pediatric gastroenterologist specializing in this procedure.
- The EvoEndo system enables pediatric patients to undergo GI examinations without repeated anesthesia exposure, enhancing their comfort and safety during the procedure.
- Unlike traditional endoscopes, EvoEndo’s scope is inserted through the nose to examine the esophagus, stomach, or bowels while the patient remains fully awake. To keep patients distracted and comfortable, they wear virtual reality goggles during the procedure.
- Currently, only 25 hospitals nationwide offer this procedure, with Arnold Palmer Hospital being one of them. However, EvoEndo aims to expand its presence to 50 hospitals by the end of the year.
This adoption of EvoEndo at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital signifies a significant advancement in pediatric gastrointestinal care, providing a safer and more comfortable alternative for young patients undergoing endoscopic examinations.