Technology trends

The trends in medical instrumentation for the US health care are presented. A successful heart bypass that marked the first North American use of the da Vinci Computer-enhanced Surgical System which uses remote-controlled instruments guided by a surgeon at a computer keyboard is described. A stereotactic radiation system that allows oncologists to shape radiation treatments three-dimensionally to match irregularly contoured tumors and deliver a full radiation dose is discussed. A tiny MRI device that is inserted in the esophagus and provides sharper images of the throat and aorta is developed. A pump system that is based on elastomeric infusion technology and provides pain medication is explored. A self-expanding stent system is presented.