In May 1999, the idea of NBI was conceived. In order to confirm the feasibility of NBI, a study was conducted using a multispectral camera capable of producing spectral images and a high-power light source. I volunteered to participate in the tests. It was shown that the use of 415 nm narrow-band light improved the contrast of capillary images, which were difficult to observe with conventional white light. A biopsy image generated using NBI is shown in Figure 5. Then, in collaboration with Dr. Sano at the Eastern National Cancer Center Hospital, we began development of the NBI endoscopic system, and on December 14, 1999, based on a study using a prototype of the NBI, we confirmed that this technology is a promising technique for endoscopic examination of hollow mucous membranes, including the colon, stomach, and esophagus. We have been developing products by improving the capabilities of the prototype not only through collaboration with endoscopy experts in Japan, but also through collaboration with various locations. EXERA II (OLYMPUS CLV-180 EVIS EXERA II Xenon Cold Light Source, OLYMPUS CV-180 EVIS EXERA II Video System Center) and EVIS LUCERA Spectrometer ( OLYMPUS CLV-260SL EVIS LUCERA Spectrum Xenon Light Source, OLYMPUS CV-260SL EVIS LUCER were launched in 2005 and 2006, respectively CENTER (Olympus, Tokyo, Japan).
