J&J’s Ethicon Releases Echelon 3000 Stapler in U.S.

Johnson & Johnson MedTech company Ethicon has launched its new Echelon 3000 stapler in the U.S.
 
The digitally-enabled device provides one-handed powered articulation, with 39% greater jaw aperture and 27% greater articulation span, according to the company. Echelon 3000 also contains software as well as haptic and audible device feedback so critical adjustments can be made during procedures.
 
“Surgical complications often stem from difficult-to-access anatomy and compromised tissue, which this next generation ECHELON stapler is specifically designed to address,” Tom O’Brien, worldwide president of Endomechanical for Ethicon told the press. “Our goal, with ECHELON 3000, is to arm surgeons with a device that helps address the root causes of surgical complications, enabling them to successfully navigate the differing needs of each patient’s anatomy, deliver on their preoperative plans and ultimately make a meaningful difference in patient outcomes.”
 
“The ECHELON 3000 has the flexibility that we as surgeons have long craved in a surgical stapler—with greater articulation for better access to tissue in tight spaces, such as the thoracic cavity,” said Zane Hammoud, MD, FACS, Chief of General Thoracic Surgery at Ascension Providence Hospital System. “As a thoracic surgeon, these new enhancements to a trusted device may allow for a more seamless and efficient surgical experience.”
 
Echelon 3000 was designed for thoracic, colorectal, and bariatric/gastric laparoscopic procedures, though Ethicon says it can be used for a wide range of surgical procedures.
 
It can be particularly useful for VATS segmentectomy, low anterior resection, and sleeve gastrectomy, according to Ethicon.
 
“Greater jaw aperture, powered articulation and articulation within a shortened distance are all incredibly valuable assets that make an already beneficial stapler, even better,” said Joe Northup, MD, FACS, Bariatric Surgeon at BMI Surgery, Past-Chair, ASMBS Access to Care Committee and ASMBS Executive Council. “Having placed the ECHELON+ stapler in my hand already, it feels natural and familiar to transition right into this new device.”