5 4 S U P P L E M E N T T O O U T P A T I E N T S U R G E R Y M A G A Z I N E M A R C H 2 0 1 7
different systems for at least 2
months each, including another with
4K capability. "Our physician part-
ners ultimately made the decision,
with our input," says Ms. Schuetz.
"And not a day goes by that we're
not thrilled to have 4K here."
More than meets the eye
The wow factor of the 4K system they chose has actually gone beyond crystal-
clear visuals, says Chris Chase, CST, who works in sterile processing at the cen-
ter. She ticks off numerous other benefits, including the sterilization capabilities,
the ease of use for surgeons and staff, the kinds of warranties that are offered
and having a platform that can be expanded as time goes on.
The entire system is fully autoclavable — including scopes, cameras and
shavers — so there was no need to buy a low-temperature sterilizer, says Ms.
Chase, who adds, "That would have been an expense both to buy and run."
4K technology is bound to attract physicians and impress patients. But will it
lead to better outcomes? That's going to be really hard to prove, says Dr. Fong.
"It might be that it adds to surgeon comfort, but even if he can move a little
faster, is saving a few minutes in the OR going to make it worthwhile?"
Absolutely, says Ms. Schuetz. "You can't show documentation that says the
technology is better, but you just know," she explains. "The patient is under
anesthesia for less time because the doctor can see what he needs, and is
able to do the job as quickly as possible."
The small advantages all add up, says Ms. Schuetz. Another example:
Surgeons can download high-resolution images and email them to patients. "We
get a lot of snowbirds down here," she says. "They may come to us to get their
knee or shoulder scoped, then go back north and see a doctor for a follow-up
appointment. This way, they have the pictures to show them."
• STILL STUNNING Standard high-definition images provide more than
enough detail to satisfy many surgeons.
Pamela
Bevelhymer,
RN,
BSN
