From the April 2017 issue of HealthCare Business News magazine
In addition to 4K, the use of fluorescence imaging technology has allowed for direct imaging of blood flow. Fluorescence imaging is based on using an imaging dye, such as indocyanine green, that fluoresces or glows when exposed to ultraviolet light. This assists surgeons in avoiding blood vessels while identifying tumor margins in critical areas of the body. These technologies offer the promise of sparing healthy tissue and improving outcomes.
Soft tissue or tumor ablation
One of the fastest growing procedural areas is the soft tissue or tumor ablation market. No longer are surgeons using a scalpel or even a basic RF generator to remove tissue. Despite the fact that capital costs can reach $100,000 or more, and consumable costs can be in the thousands, evolving technologies such as light (laser), radiofrequency, ultrasound (HIFU), microwave and cryo-thermal offer tradeoffs such as shorter recovery time, shorter surgical times, lower risk of infection, minimal damage to the healthy tissue, less blood loss, less pain and shorter hospital stays. This has allowed these technologies to be more financially attractive. Health care has become more competitive. To stay competitive, operating rooms have to change with the markets. Although this requires an investment in capital, consumables and training, it offers patients many more options.
About the author: James Laskaris is a senior emerging technology analyst at MD Buyline and serves as the primary analyst of high-end operating room technology. He also covers issues related to the legislative and reimbursement effect on health care and authors a bimonthly “Issues that Matter” publication.Back to HCB News
