improved visualization of
the operative space.
The last thing you
want a surgeon to say
during an arthroscopic
procedure is, "Why can't
I see anything?"
Bundle and save
When shopping for a
visualization system, it's
vital to make sure the
individual components
communicate with each
other. If you purchase
one vendor's camera,
another vendor's shaver,
and yet another ven-
dor's radiofrequency
(RF) probe, you could
run into compatibility
problems. Finding
compatible systems,
typically from the
same vendor, can save
you a lot of headaches
in the long run.
Second, many
vendors sell their
arthroscopy systems in
bundled packages, just like you'd buy internet and
TV from the same cable provider. The vendors bun-
dle the costs of the pump, shavers, burrs, RF sys-
tem, camera and monitor. Compare the quality of
the camera head and display monitor between the
vendors. Then, choose the vendor that has the most
complete and cost-effective package.
We'll continue to see many visualization break-
throughs that will enhance joint treatment for
years to come. As providers of top-level orthope-
dic care, we owe it to our patients to keep up with
these advances.
OSM
• Data storage.
Visualization systems
offer more data storage
options than ever. You
can load video and
images to a CD or upload
them directly to a server.
Some systems also
enable you to upload
images and video direct-
ly into a patient's elec-
tronic health record.
Cloud-based data storage
is especially beneficial
because it allows anyone
on the patient care team
to upload and access it.
• Voice control. This
is just like talking to
"Alexa" on an Amazon
Echo. Surgeons must
wear headsets to use
this feature and, full
disclaimer, I haven't
used it yet. However,
I've talked to other sur-
geons who've used it in
the OR, and they give it
high marks. With these
features, you can acti-
vate commands and record audio during surgeries.
I know some surgeons who video record parts of
surgeries and audio record descriptions of them.
Afterward, they can share the audio and video files
with patients.
• Better fluid pumps. Advancements in infusion
pump systems have also improved the standards for
arthroscopy. Newer pump systems make the fluid
management during surgery more consistent.
During arthroscopic procedures, fluid is injected
into the joint, but is also removed during use of the
shaver handpiece or burr. It's important to regulate
fluid to avoid a dry joint. Newer automated pumps
sense the change in fluid and increase or decrease
the level depending on the most optimal conditions,
allowing for a more stable surgical field and
1 2 • 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 • S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 0
We'll continue to see many
visualization breakthroughs
that will enhance joint
treatment for years to come.
Dr. Nho (shane.nho@rushortho.com) is an
orthopedic surgeon in sports medicine and hip
arthroscopy at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush in
Chicago.
