Summary
At present, video endoscopic systems (VE) are available from four companies. We have
had an opportunity to test these instruments in clinical practice.
In principle, all the VE's are similar in that they employ charge coupling devices
(CCD-chips) as image sensors, but they differ significantly in CCD chip technology
and in the color acquisition technique. The basic aspects of CCD chip and transmission
technology of relevance to the endoscopist are discussed. The mechanical properties
of the endoscopes are listed. Finally, we provide an outlook on the determinants of
the optical performance of VE's. The optical performance of a VE can be characterized
by its resolution and color performance.
Key words:
Video endoscopy systems - Testing of instruments - Color acquisition technique
