The healthcare industry is driven by technology. New developments mean that healthcare providers can offer patients better levels of care, treating a wider range of diseases and conditions with greater degrees of success.
It’s a rapidly evolving industry. Sometimes, it can be difficult to keep up with the latest and greatest developments. We’ve put together a list of three innovative medical instruments you might not know about. Check it out below.
1. New Surgical Retractors
Retractor instruments are one the oldest medical tools but are still incredibly valuable and widely used today. They work by holding incisions open while a surgeon works inside a patient and are used for a range of different procedures and surgeries.
In days gone by, retractors were rudimentary instruments that could be difficult to operate, often requiring more than one medical professional. Today, retractors are far more advanced and have a range of special features and benefits. The Galaxy II from June Medical is a perfect example. It is self-retaining, meaning it does not require someone to manually hold it open. It is also made of single-use, medical-grade plastic, meaning it can be discarded after use, minimising the risk of cross-contamination. What’s more, the Galaxy II is the first self-retaining retractor to come with a light attachment, allowing for greater visibility and accuracy when performing surgery.
2. Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems
Diabetes is an incurable lifelong condition that affects millions of people across the world. It requires those living with it to be vigilant about their health and ensure their blood glucose levels stay within a specific range.
In the past, people with diabetes would use something known as the finger prick method to check their blood glucose, drawing blood from their fingers and using a device to test it. This process was invasive and inconvenient, not to mention uncomfortable. Today, new medical developments are working to improve the lives of those with diabetes.
Continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMS) work by placing a small sensor under the skin that constantly monitors and reviews blood glucose levels. If it goes above or below a specified level, the user will be alerted so that they can then take action. This is a far more convenient and effective way for people with diabetes to manage their condition.
3. 5G Devices
You would be forgiven for assuming that you only find 5G on your mobile, but the new network standard has a range of benefits to offer medical instruments as well. 5G is far faster and more efficient than previous networks, which makes for more efficient communication between devices. Medical instruments and diagnostic equipment fitted with 5G will be able to transmit data and reports much more quicker, which will certainly improve patient care and diagnostics.
Conclusion
There’s never been a more exciting time to get involved with the medical industry. Technology is driving the field forward, and we’ve seen some incredibly innovative new instruments in recent years.