Cyalume Technologies
Chemiluminating Pelvic Examinations

Today, clinicians perform pelvic examinations with the help of speculums appended with light sources such as lithium-ion battery powered LEDs that often produces harsh light and requires constant maintenance. The reusable metal vaginal speculum that doctors use requires constant attention to proper cleaning and sterilization which ultimately increases its cost per usage. Continually having to sterilize speculums in between exams demands both additional supplies and personnel time. In addition, improper cleaning and sterilization of the speculum, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, has increased the awareness of the risks cross-contamination for both healthcare workers and patients.

Cyalume Technologies addresses such problems with SpecuLume EZ, a single-use, disposable, chemiluminated speculum that delivers exceptional value and allows easier pelvic examinations. Enhancing upon the functionality of a classic speculum, SpecuLume EZ is designed for easy use, making it a special innovation in women’s health. “We entered the healthcare market with a mission to provide clinicians with a high-quality illumination device, which results in benefits for both the healthcare provider and the patient,” says Jim Miller, Director of Medical Products.

Manufacturing chemical light products for over 40 years, Cyalume Technologies’ SpecuLume EZ provides brilliant diffused intravaginal illumination without batteries or other “warm,” light sources. In addition to the light, several unique design features have been incorporated into the speculum itself. SpecuLume EZ’s single middle-bolt design eradicates the ratcheting noise that many of the commonly used speculums creates, which is uncomfortable for both patients and doctors. The middle-bolt design further helps to securely lock the device in place at any point, with an easy-grip tightening nut that prevents it from accidentally closing.

From primary care physicians to obstetricians and gynecologists, we are delivering our proven expertise and unparalleled quality to the entire category of women’s health

The handles in the SpecuLume EZ are angled outwards, making it comfortable for clinicians to use, keeping their hands away from the pelvic area. “When you elevate a speculum and lower it, there's a risk of tissue being pinched between the upper and lower blade. We’ve applied pinch guards on SpecuLume EZ, such that when the clinician is lowering the speculum, the guards holds tissue back and mitigates the risk of uncomfortable pinching for the patient,” adds Miller.

Apart from this, what truly makes the product a preferred choice for doctors and patients is its diffused bright light source that is not as harsh as someothers when viewing the cervical area. The light insert used in the SpecuLume EZ does not produce any heat and can provide effective illumination for up to 15 minutes. Further, the product being completely disposable eliminates the need for sterilization, or disinfecting reusable batteries, making SpecuLume EZ a cost-effective product. Miller says, “Frequent sterilization and maintenance of every metal speculum increases its cost per use up to $4, whereas our cost per use is the cost of the product which can be considerably less than many”.

Miller talks about Cyalume Technologies’ legacy of over 40 years and its commitment to serve key industrial verticals other than healthcare with the chemical lighting expertise. While most of the companies in the chemiluminescence products space manufacture products for lesser-concerning verticals such as party items, and decoration, Cyalume Technologies is the leading company producing chemical light for essential and mission-critical purposes. The company’s products are used in the military worldwide, safety and emergency preparedness, healthcare, and maritime among other industries.

Evidently, Cyalume Technologies is on a mission to develop a new product category of chemical illuminated medical devices. Upon introducing SpecuLume EZ early this year, the company saw significant interest from both patients and physicians who have used it. “From primary care physicians to obstetricians and gynecologists, we are delivering our proven expertise and unparalleled quality to the entire category of women’s health,” concludes Miller.