The backdrop of health care reform along with the conversional medical device tax have failed to prevent the ongoing developments in medical technology by numerous companies which are focused on healthcare products that are not only cheaper, but also provide proficient patient care. According to the latest healthcare technology news, the medical technology industry was burdened by the pointlessly complex approval process for new medical devices.
However, the FDA announced a new Medical Device Innovation Consortium (MDIC), which was responsible for simplifying the whole process of design and testing of new technologies.
We bring to you the top 5 medical technology innovations that will advance the medical sciences significantly:
1. MelaFind Optical Scanner
Melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer. Previously, it was impossible to differentiate between moles that were harmful from the ones that weren’t, without an invasive surgical biopsy.
Thanks to the MelaFind Optical Scanner, dermatologists have now at their disposal a handheld tool that can carry out a multispectral analysis of tissue morphology. The ultimate goal of the device is to reduce the number of patients that are left with needless scars as a result of the biopsy.
2. ATI Neurostimulator
The ‘take two aspirins’ method has never worked for migraine and cluster headaches. For long, physicians have associated the chronic forms of headaches with a facial nerve bundle called the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG). The ATI Neurostimulator is currently under investigation and is a powered tool designed to block SPG signals as soon as a headache is detected.
A permanent implant in the upper gum on the side of the head where the headache usually occurs is used to block pain causing neurotransmitters.
3. Transdermal Biosensor
A transdermal biosensor is currently under production at Echo Therapeutics with the aim of providing a needle-free solution for diabetic patients. The sensor will be able to read blood analytes through the skin without the need of drawing any blood at all. A small handheld electric toothbrush-like device functions by removing some of the top-layer skin to bring the blood chemistry within the range of the sensor.
The sensor is capable of collecting a reading every minute and can send the data to a remote monitor. It can also trigger alarms whenever glucose levels are exceeded beyond optimal range.
4. RP-VITA Remote Presence Robot
The latest healthcare technology news constantly keeps us apprised on the latest developments in the healthcare sector. More and more sophisticated technology is being implemented to provide a cost-effective means of patient care.
Medical robots are the next step forward. The RP-VITA Remote Presence Robot is produced by InTouch Health and iRobot Corp. The robot is equipped with a two-way video screen and medical monitoring equipment that is programmed to maneuver itself across the busy hallways of a hospital.
5. Sapien Transcatheter Aortic Valve
The Sapien transcatheter aortic valve is an alternate to an open-heart surgery designed for people who need a replacement valve, but cannot endure the severity of the open-heart surgery procedure.
The valve is already available in Europe, and is slowly making its way into the United States. Such an efficient procedure is bound to reduce the health care costs incurred as a result of prolonged hospitalization.