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S U R G I C A L
I M A G I N G
On the other hand, following the opposite route — assembling a system by seeking out the best prices on image source, distribution and
output equipment from more than 1 vendor — requires caution in
terms of service agreements, says Mr. Pinkney. "The possibility of as
many as 3 manufacturers can mean a lot of finger-pointing in the
event of a breakdown."
Q
How can you get the
most out of an HD investment?
Purchasing technology, while at the same time planning for
its future usability, is a tough balancing act. If you're looking for the
future of HD video monitors, give serious consideration to LED over traditional LCD displays. "This is a difference in the type of backlighting,"
says Mr. Pinkney. LCD screens, which currently dominate the surgical
market, incorporate 1 large light source, which illuminates all of the display's pixels. LED screens, on the other hand, feature individual lightemitting diodes for each pixel, which provide improved image contrast,
he notes. Although the newer technology costs a bit more — about
$1,000 more per monitor than LCDs — as in the surgical lights they've
revolutionized, LEDs deliver quality and longevity.
Another consideration involves the possibilities for reprocessing the
HD system's source components, which will play a role in your equipment purchase, scheduling and workflow. "There are lenses, camera
heads and light cords that are either autoclavable or non-autoclavable,"
says Ms. Day. "Autoclavable equipment can be sterilized within 10 to 15
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