money on 4K."
The technology's
higher cost is deter-
ring many managers,
especially when they
compare its prices to
the latest 1080p HD
systems. "We looked
at 4K, but once the
physician-owners
compared the image
difference and the
price difference
between the HD and
4K, they went with the regular HD," says Cheryl (Skeet) Todd, RN, BSN,
CNOR, CPAN, RNFA, director of outpatient perioperative services at the
Texas Spine and Joint Hospital in Tyler, Texas.
But when you're only getting a new system every 5 to 10 years, it may be
worth it to spend a little extra to have the latest and greatest technology.
That way it potentially stays relevant a few years longer, suggests Mr.
Huffman. During his trial, he says he felt like he got a "better deal" on the
4K system since "it was a better technology," though his physicians even-
tually decided to go with another company that didn't offer 4K.
Is 3D falling out of fashion?
3D technology has entered into the surgical world in 2 ways: robots
equipped with 3D video and independent, standalone systems where
viewers wear glasses to give them the enhanced views. These systems
promise to give surgeons better depth perception during procedures,
which can be especially helpful for tasks such as suturing or separating
7 8 • O U T PA T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E • J U L Y 2 0 1 6
• BRIGHT AND CLEAR 4K video systems promise higher resolution and brighter colors than full 1080p HD systems..
