1. 4K video
Ultra-high-definition video monitors feature a 3,840 x 2,160-pixel
matrix, or more than 8 million pixels compared with standard HD's 2
million pixels. There are 4K surgical monitors and 4K camera systems
on the market, and in order to get the full benefits of ultra-high defini-
tion, you need to upgrade the entire imaging chain, including the cam-
era, video tower and monitors, says Alan Sherburne, MD, a general sur-
geon with Auburn (N.Y.) Community Hospital. 4K systems can also
offer more than just a pretty picture; at least one system has an autofo-
cus feature, which manufacturers say keeps the surgeon's image sharp
as he changes location or settings in the surgical field. Additionally, 4K
scopes now come in 5 mm instead of the larger 10 mm, and most
scopes now are fully autoclavable to make reprocessing them easier.
As far as the clinical benefits of using the technology, it's pretty sim-
ple: The more pixels on the screen, the better the image quality, which
helps surgeons with depth perception and distinguishing between dif-
ferent layers of tissue. Additionally, colors "pop" on 4K monitors,
especially reds and yellows. "The lighting in the system is very good
as well," says Dr. Sherburne. "When there's blood in the field, the sys-
tem seems to balance the colors and the lighting in the image is much
better."
Surgeons can also magnify an image on the screen 10 to 30 times
with virtually no pixilation, adds Dr. Sherburne. "There's no loss of
resolution, which was a problem with older standard definition sys-
tems," he says.
As with most new surgical video systems, facilities say cost is one of
the biggest reasons why they aren't making the switch to 4K just yet.
Oftentimes the cost is higher than simply purchasing a new HD sys-
tem because you need new towers, cameras and displays in order to
go fully 4K, says Dr. Sherburne.
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