OSE_1311_part2_Layout 1 11/6/13 9:40 AM Page 115
O P H T H A L M O L O G Y
buy a new or used scope depends on what you and your facility need. If
your center is performing a lot of cases with a high percentage of
refractive cataract and retinal surgery, the technologies available with a
new scope will pay off by shortening case times, decreasing turnover
times, preventing surgeon frustration and improving outcomes. A new
scope will also have equity if you sell it later. But if you're performing a
relatively small number of standard, uncomplicated anterior segment
cases and typically not using premium intraocular lenses, a reliable
used scope with good optics and depth of focus is probably sufficient.
The downsides of a used microscope include the lack of a service contract (unless you purchase one separately), difficulty finding replacement parts and bulbs, and the inability to interface with new technology
as it becomes available. For example, although they're not currently
required by meaningful use, DICOM-formatted video or images may
become a routine and integral part of the patient's electronic medical
record. OSM
Dr. Scherer (w.scherer@newsomeye.net) is the head of the research department at the Newsom Eye & Laser Center in Tampa, Fla.
N O V E M B E R 2013 | O U T PAT I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E O N L I N E
1 1 5
