With advanced medical technology, equipment and procedures, high-risk procedures for patients have become much more common. Although advanced technology has saved many lives, it has also increased the risks for hospital negligence and medical malpractice. To prevent errors and negligence, many hospitals are employing new technology that will lower the risks for doctors, nurses, hospitals and patients who must hire an Illinois medical malpractice lawyer to protect their rights.
The ECRI Institute recently released a 30 page report listing the top 10 new medical technologies being implemented by hospitals in 2016. The ECRI Institute (Emergency Care Research Institute) is a 50 year old non-profit organization dedicated to scientific research of medical procedures, equipment, devices, and drugs to improve patient care. Here are some of the new technologies:
- Mobile Stroke Units – Strokes are a leading cause of death and traumatic brain injury. Mobile stroke units, high-tech ambulances, are being outfitted with telemedecine technology that lets the mobile staff communicate directly with remote medical staffs.
- Wireless Wearable Sensors – Wireless sensors allow doctors to monitor both inpatient and outpatient medical conditions. New movement/activity sensors are so sophisticated they can detect neurological movements in Alzheimers and Epilepsy patients.
- Miniature Leadless Pacemakers – These revolutionary devices do not require surgery, but currently are only authorized for about 15% of patients that need pacemakers.
- Blue-Violet LED Light Fixtures – This new technology has been shown to reduce contamination levels in hospitals, especially in burn units. It may also prevent dangerous hospital-acquired infections such as staphylococcus aureus.
- Robotic Surgical Equipment – Although the da Vinci Robotic Surgical System was introduced on the market more than 15 years ago, many hospitals did not use it. New robotic technology has made robotic surgical equipment easier to use and more cost effective for 2016.SpaceOAR – A new injected hydrogel is preventing injuries, pain and complications in prostate patients receiving radiation therapy for prostate cancer. The new gel limits the risk of rectal injuries during radiation.
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New medical technology offers medical professionals and patients reduced risks of injury from medical negligence and error. In Illinois, both groups will benefit from fewer injuries and medical malpractice lawsuits by an Illinois medical malpractice lawyer.
