West Virginia Executive Winter 2023 | Page 133

Saneso Colonoscope
Saneso ’ s endoscope platform is a cutting-edge , first-of-its-kind endoscope designed to enhance visualization of the gastrointestinal ( GI ) tract due to the nature of its 360-degree integrated field of vision . Saneso has five cameras creating one integrated image providing an unprecedented view of the GI tract . The design is straightforward and intuitive to use , and , better yet , it is easy to interpret . Not only that , but its construction incorporates features such as advanced LED lighting , improved maneuverability , superior imaging capabilities and a multi-nozzle wash system .
A study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology shows that the Saneso colonoscope significantly
increases polyp detection . It is a powerful next step in fighting colon cancer and saving lives by detecting more life-threatening , pre-cancerous polyps .
Saneso is headquartered in Pittsburgh , PA , and has a production facility in West Virginia , thanks to Nitesh Ratnakar , M . D ., FACG , a West Virginia resident who has worked closely with Saneso to develop its revolutionary endoscope .
“ I am so pleased to be a part of the team at Saneso ,” says Ratnakar . “ I had the opportunity to help play a part in bringing the manufacturing of Saneso to West Virginia , where it can support both local talent and the economy . In addition , the facility is key in streamlining the product for national use .”
also help develop interventional tools to use for these endoscopic procedures .”
Using his expertise as an inventor and entrepreneur , Ratnakar also makes mentoring others a priority .
“ One of my favorite things is being a mentor to medical and nursing students and medical device innovators . They are the future of health care ,” he says . “ With other innovators , I enjoy helping them through the process and supporting them in realizing their dreams to the best extent I can . From helping with conceptualizing ideas to licensing , I mentor depending on the need of the innovator . If someone wants to commercialize an idea , I try to connect them with others who can help fuel their idea .”
Despite Ratnakar ’ s busy schedule , he still finds time to give back to the community . He is involved with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance , American Cancer Society and Care Well Charitable Society .
For his community engagement , education and awareness efforts for
colorectal cancer prevention , Ratnakar is a recipient of the SCOPY Award from the American College of Gastroenterology , an organization where Ratnakar has also served as a fellow and governor . Additionally , he has served as chair for innovation at the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy .
Although these accolades have been an honor for Ratnakar , what means the most to him is a simple thank you from the patients he sees .
“ Perseverance and dedication to a selfless goal can beat any challenge in life ,” he says .
At the heart of it , Ratnakar is devoted to saving lives , and the Mountain State has helped fuel his work to accomplish this feat .
“ People here have been very kind and supportive in both my medical practice and entrepreneurial ventures . Additionally , West Virginia has wonderful people and unbeatable natural beauty ,” says Ratnakar . “ My wife is from here , and it is a great place to raise our children .” •
WWW . WVEXECUTIVE . COM WINTER 2023 79