Developing an Endoscope Lens with Anti-Fogging and Anti-Fouling Properties using Nanoparticle Materials

Endoscopes are widely used in clinical settings. Gastric endoscopes particular useful for detecting early-stage gastric cancers and polyp removal. During removal or other simple surgical procedures, however, the spatter of blood bodily fluids resulting from excision affected areas can fog endoscope lens. Condensation caused by temperature differences between instrument interior exterior also affect image clarity. Any obstruction field view during procedure must be addressed removing cleaning lens; doing so prolongs time required procedure, makes it more invasive, increases patient burdens. Drawing on biomimicry principles, we developed an lens with anti-fogging anti-fouling features. This paper reports our results.