Modern Technologies in Surgery
Today, surgeons can use a variety of technologies. This includes robotics and telepresence. However, this article will concentrate only on three of most commonly used technologies by surgeons to improve patient care. These include Robotics, Telepresence and PeriopSim.
3D printing
We can now create a more customized treatment for patients using 3D printing and other modern technologies. By creating a virtual model of an anatomy surgeons can plan and implement surgical procedures.
Many specialties have adopted 3D printing technology in today’s world, including oncology, craniofacial, and orthopedic surgery. Other applications of 3D printing in medical field include designing surgical instruments, external fixators, and splints.
Multiple studies have shown that printed models are useful in pre-surgical planning. They can also be used to provide information about the patient’s condition. For example, the surgeon can use the models to identify blood flow rerouting. The model can also be used for education.
The number of studies that have been done on the use 3D printing in surgical procedures has increased over the past few years. 3D printing in surgery has been shown to reduce the time and scarring, as well the recovery period.
The printed models can also help to understand the anatomy and pathology of a patient. The surgeon can then customize the surgery to suit his patients and reduce the risk for complications.
One of the first specialties to adopt 3D printing technology was orthopedic surgery. In orthopedic surgery, 3D printed models have been used for pre-surgical planning.
Another specialty, pediatric orthotics, uses MRI/CT scans to plan ahead. This method of treating children is expected to expand to other areas in the future.
Surgeons also use patient-specific anatomic models for surgical simulations. These models are based upon available MRI data and a segmentation procedure.
Telepresence
Telepresence is a cutting-edge technology that can greatly improve the safety, efficiency, as well as patient outcomes. It has also been used in military operations, deep sea exploration and bomb disposal.
A telepresence system allows a surgeon the ability to perform surgery from anywhere. The system includes remote instrument control, haptic feedback, and real-time 3D video visual. Telepresence could be used in the operating room to mentor medical students or assist with introductory surgery training.
In the first phase of the pilot project, surgeons tested the benefits of telepresence by performing a variety of surgical cases. The majority of these cases were trauma surgical cases. Although most of these procedures were successful there were a few issues that needed attention.
Latency was one such issue. Latency is defined as the time lag between an operator’s input and the reaction of an instrument. This delay was a problem for surgeons who had to adapt quickly.
Another challenge was the lack of infrastructure in some countries. Without an internet connection, telepresence can be difficult. It can be difficult to establish a reliable internet connection even if a hospital has one.
As robotics technology improves, it is possible to incorporate them into surgical procedures in many ways. For example, they can help with less invasive procedures such as microsurgery. They can also offer new solutions to traditional laparoscopic surgeries.
In the future, it will be determined if telepresence has any significant effect on surgical outcomes. It could however lead to better surgery and greater access to healthcare.
In the short-term, telepresence can enhance the performance of surgeons in minimally invasive procedures, such as gynecology. It can also serve as a mentor to third-year medical student with little operative experience.
Robotics
Robotic surgery, a modern technology, is more popular than ever. These robots can perform minimally invasive surgery that reduces pain and scarring. They also allow surgeons to control the instruments and provide a better view of what is happening at the site.
While robotics have been around for over thirty years, their use has increased dramatically in the last decade. There are many robotic surgical systems being made by new companies. The robotics market is growing at an average rate 300% per year.
Robotic surgery offers the major advantage of being performed anywhere. This includes a hospital, a rehabilitation center, or a doctor’s office. Robotics can be monitored by surgeons and surgical teams on the patient’s bedside. This facilitates a more efficient workflow.
Surgical robotics can be used for a variety of purposes, including image-guided therapy, drug delivery, and diagnostic tests. A lot of research is being done to find robotic solutions that can improve surgical procedures in a variety.
Robotics can reduce the need to incision and allow for precise positioning of surgical instruments. They also make procedures safer. Surgical robotics can be used to reduce the risk of lymph node extraction in cancer operations.
Robots made from flexible, soft, and deformable materials are available in newer models. They can also be adjusted in terms of their stiffness. Some systems have haptic feedback that allows surgeons to know if they are performing a task correctly.
Robotic surgery equipment is becoming more affordable. Newer robotic systems are less expensive, and smaller ones are available for less complicated surgeries. However, the cost of specialized consumables adds to the expense of robotics.
Stereotactic breast biopsy
Stereotactic Breast biopsy is a common diagnostic procedure that detects cancerous cells in breasts. It is quicker than surgical biopsy and can usually be done in less than an hour.
Stereotactic core biopsy has demonstrated high accuracy and lower incidence of complications. This procedure also lowers the cost of patient care.
The Vacuum-Assisted device (VAD) is another method for stereotactic breast biopsies. This is a device that uses vacuum pressure and syringes to draw tissue samples into needles.
Stereotactic biopsy is able take images of the same location from different angles. This aids in pinpointing where the cancerous cells are located. This procedure is painless and has fewer side effects.
Some of the other advantages of stereotactic breast biopsies include low risk of infection and minimal scarring. This type of procedure is used to examine calcium deposits or tiny masses that aren’t visible on ultrasound.
Stereotactic breast biopsy is a good way to diagnose cancerous cells in the breast. You should consult your doctor before you have any procedure.
Several studies show that stereotactic biopsy is just as accurate as surgical biopsy, but it is less invasive. In addition, there are no stitches and the procedure is less expensive.
Stereotactic breast biopsies can not only detect cancerous cells but can also analyze minerals, vitamins and over-the counter medications. Follow-up exams can help determine whether the treatment is working.
You must inform the xray technician if you are pregnant to ensure that the biopsy is accurate and safe. You should also avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
PeriopSim
PeriopSim, a new app for medical simulation training, is designed for perioperative nurses. The program provides detailed session debriefing and assesses student progress. It also includes high-quality operating room equipment and surgical tools.
PeriopSim was developed by Conquer Mobile, a medical simulation and VR training specialist. It is available on Apple and Android tablets. The company has been working together with a medical advisory group that includes neuroscientists, surgeons, and other medical professionals. They are experts in 3D scanning, augmented reality, and other related areas. Providence St. Joseph Health Everett is among its customers, as well as Johns Hopkins Sibley (University Hospital of Cleveland).
PeriopSim’s efficacy was demonstrated in a study with PGY-1 neurosurgery patients. This study showed a significant increase in total scores and fewer errors. The study also included previous neurosurgery clinical experience.
PeriopSim, an educational software program that can be accessed via an iPad, is PeriopSim. Using voice narration and video, learners can practice procedures before surgery. It creates a virtual reality experience when the program is used in conjunction with a virtual reality headset. Students can practice entering the operating area, viewing the procedure and choosing the right instrument.
PeriopSim’s instrument trainer was instrumental in identifying 15 surgical instruments, according to the study. Participants were asked to identify each instrument and place it in a bin.
An additional module is available for purchase. PeriopSim includes over 4000 hours in hands-on training. Educators can customize the program for their institutions. PeriopSim can be integrated into the hospital’s education curriculum to prepare trainees for real-world situations.
PeriopSim can be gamified to allow learners to compete with peers and improve performance. As they continue to use the program, the total score increases.