• 4K HD. Perched atop the food chain of arthroscopic visualiza-
tion is 4K ultra-high-definition with its rich spectrum of colors, vivid
depth perception and lifelike clarity.
When high-def cameras and monitors came along, we wondered
how we ever got along without them. And many of us assumed that
was about as good as it could get. But as the 4K pioneers and pur-
veyors will tell you, the incremental leap from HD to 4K may be
even more impactful. Some 4K systems even let you optimize your
view depending on the kind of work you're doing — laparoscopic,
arthroscopic or endoscopic. But the reality is that for many — if not
most — 4K is out of reach, at least for the time being. As prices
come down and facilities transition, it may become the new stan-
dard, but for now, most of us are still working in simple high-def
mode. Fortunately, however, there are other tools and techniques we
can use to achieve the visual acuity we seek.
• Through the fog. The technology that helps military person-
nel see their way through clouds, smoke and other harsh air and land
conditions has been co-opted by at least one manufacturer to help
surgeons see their way through the fog, smoke and debris of
arthroscopy.
A sophisticated algorithm can brighten images in dark and posterior
compartments of joints, desaturate colors and use edge enhancement
to increase the detail and contrast of specific structures.
Is it cost-effective? The manufacturer says so. I can't say for certain,
but if it shortens the length of surgery by allowing you to spend less
time dealing with smoke, blood, cloudy water and other debris, it
seems likely. We all know how expensive every minute of OR time is.
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