Japanese medical technology firm Olympus has announced the full market release of its AI-driven emphysema screening programme, SeleCT Screening.
SeleCT is an advanced screening platform developed in collaboration with 4DMedical.
The platform is designed to identify patients with severe emphysema who may benefit from bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR).
BLVR is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at improving lung function.
SeleCT Screening leverages artificial intelligence to automatically review existing chest computed tomography (CT) scans within health systems.
The programme identifies potential candidates for BLVR using endobronchial valves, such as the Spiration Valve System.
It alerts physicians when a suitable patient is found, for further evaluation for the procedure.
Olympus America respiratory business unit vice president Swarna Alcorn said: “Access is an important factor when it comes to procedures like bronchoscopic lung volume reduction, so we are excited for the full launch of an AI-powered tool to help connect patients to procedures that offer the possibility of an improved quality of life.
“Coupling technologies like SeleCT Screening and Spiration Valve represent the intersection of Olympus’ core values of patient focus, innovation and impact.”
Emphysema, a severe form of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), is marked by the loss of elasticity and enlargement of lung air sacs and leads to breathing difficulties.
The Spiration Valve System involves an umbrella-shaped device inserted into targeted lung airways during a short bronchoscopic procedure.
The device directs airflow from diseased lung areas to healthier regions, allowing the healthier lung tissue to expand and function, potentially improving the patient’s breathing.
Potential adverse events associated with the Spiration Valve System include pneumothorax, worsening COPD symptoms, pneumonia, and dyspnoea.
UC San Diego Health interventional pulmonologist Niral Patel said: “This use of AI technology is an exciting opportunity for us to help more emphysema patients in the communities we serve.
“Matching the right patients to the right treatment opportunity is not easy – the process takes time, and that’s a resource that a lot our severe emphysema patients don’t have. Getting to them faster is critical.”
In March 2025, Olympus has introduced its first AI-powered clinical decision tool in collaboration with medical software company Ziosoft.
