The valve-less access system also purports to help keep the scope
clear from smudges that occur when moving the scope in and out of
the trocar. "There are no valves on the system, so there's nothing for the
scope to touch as it's inserted," says Dr. Renton. "Liquid and debris
often collect at the valves, and that then touches and smudges the cam-
era."
Or you can go the gadget-less route, though it may require a little dex-
terity on the surgeon's part. "Some docs are proficient enough to wipe
[the lens] on a clean organ or use their irrigation stream to clean it,"
says Ms. Dennis. "Though most of the time, you need to just remove the
scope and wipe it off."
Talking to your docs to find what they need the most can help cut
down on investments in gadgets while ensuring clear views all
around. "With dwindling reimbursement, and every hospital and ASC
watching their margins, sometimes you have to go back to basics,"
she adds. "You might not need to incur every little widget."
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