E-Z-EM Inc. introduces contrast agent for new "see-through" small bowel radiographic study; Entero Vu™ provides detailed images not possible with conventional small bowel x-ray examination

Business Wire, Sept 5, 1996

WESTBURY, N.Y.--(HealthWire)--Sept. 5, 1996--A new procedure for imaging the small bowel was introduced today by E-Z-EM Inc. (AMEX:EZMA and EZMB).

Referred to as a "see-through" small bowel radiographic study, the procedure employs E-Z-EM's newly developed contrast agent marketed under the name Entero Vu(TM).

Archie Williams, E-Z-EM's Vice President of Imaging Products describes this new procedure as a breakthrough in the routine diagnosis of diseases and disorders of the small intestine. "Radiology has long been used to evaluate the small bowel," said Williams, "and this most commonly involves the oral administration of a contrast agent to fill and distend the small intestine and make it visible on x-ray film. The relatively high density of the contrast, however, prevents optimal definition and detail. Furthermore, where the intestine twists and folds back on itself, the cumulative density of several layers of contrast may render portions of the x-ray effectively opaque. All of this can make accurate diagnosis difficult. What distinguishes the Entero Vu(TM) "see-through" procedure is that translucency is maintained - even through multiple organ layers - enabling the radiologist to obtain a clear study of the entire small bowel."

Until Entero Vu(TM), there were only two options available for imaging the small bowel. The conventional small bowel study, as mentioned above, often lacks the fine detail necessary for critical diagnosis. The second procedure, known as enteroclysis, provides outstanding image quality, but requires direct infusion of contrast into the small intestine via nasogastric catheter. Special training, and additional time, labor and expense have restricted use of this procedure to a limited number of practitioners. "Entero Vu(TM) fills the gap in image quality between conventional small bowel studies and enteroclysis," asserts Williams. This new product and procedure gives physicians the ability to obtain excellent results in cases where enteroclysis is either not indicated or unavailable."

Entero Vu(TM) and the "see-through" small bowel procedure are both based on the pioneering work of Dr. Richard Lee, MD, a radiologist associated with Mount St. Joseph Hospital in Vancouver, Canada, in conjunction with E-Z-EM Canada Inc. of Montreal.

E-Z-EM Inc. is the world leader in developing and manufacturing contrast agents for gastrointestinal radiology. Headquartered in Westbury, E-Z-EM had fiscal 1996 sales of $92 million. The company's common stock trades on the American Stock Exchange under the symbols EZMA and EZMB. For additional information on E-Z-EM, including a copy of our latest annual report, please contact Frank Kerrigon at 1-800-544-4624, ext. 325.

CONTACT: Imaging Products

Archie B. Williams, 1-800-544-4624, ext. 316