From the April 2018 issue of HealthCare Business News magazine
By Jamie J. Dildy and Rod Faulkner, MD Buyline Analysts
The purchase of high-end technology can be a long and strenuous task.
This is especially true when there are multiple vendors to consider and an array of configuration choices based on variable procedures. An added factor, as in the case of hybrid OR, is determining whether existing room dimensions can accommodate this technology, or will it require the structure to be modified.
Hybrid OR can be a costly system because you are modifying a traditional angiography room to enable conversion to an open surgical case, or a dual case involving interventional angiography combined with an open surgical case. The primary difference is a modified table that will serve both interventional and surgical cases. The hybrid OR market continues to evolve, with advancements in treatment and diagnosis. However, MD Buyline has not seen an increase in interest from our 3,300-plus hospital members over the past couple of years. Many hospitals currently utilize their mobile C-arm during surgical cases.
When facilities are planning to purchase a hybrid OR system they should look for features and options that fit the facility’s needs and meet their spending limits. Factors that can impact the purchase decision include size of the detector, ceiling- versus floor-mounted systems, and single plane versus biplane. If the system will primarily be used for cardiology, dedicated neuro and/or pediatric cases, a small detector will typically be sufficient. If the clinicians want to expand beyond that, a mid-size detector would be appropriate. MD Buyline sees far more ceiling-mounted, single-plane system quotations from our member hospitals.
Another decision will be which table to utilize. Maquet, Steris and Trumpf are the vendors that currently offer surgical tables. These tables typically include a cradle and tilting feature, which is beneficial for many OR procedures.
Hybrid OR systems are typically installed in surgery for convenience and practicality. This can be a costly investment because a hybrid OR requires the same stringent requirements as an OR suite (e.g., air flow, infection control, etc.). Careful thought and planning must also be given to the scheduling of surgical versus interventional cases and how the room will be used when non-hybrid work is done.
The MD Buyline database shows that hospitals tend to be brand loyal. They continue with vendors that provide excellent performance and reliability as well as service and support. When making purchasing decisions you need to research every aspect of the vendor and system offered.
