Surgical Market Trends anno 2024

At JAM-Labs, we recognize the critical importance of listening to our partners, identifying market trends, and transforming insights into best-in-class solutions for the operating room (OR). 

In this article, we explore three market trends that are revolutionizing surgical procedures worldwide and highlight how JAM-Labs responds to these trends with innovative solutions. 

1. Robotic surgery: revolutionizing minimally invasive procedures 

Since the late 1980s, minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has transformed surgical procedures, offering reduced recovery times and minimal scarring. However, MIS poses challenges, requiring specialized training and relying on 2D screens that lack depth perception, which can hinder precision. Additionally, laparoscopic instruments have limited degrees of freedom, amplifying hand tremors and reducing surgical accuracy. 

Robotic surgery has emerged as a groundbreaking solution to these limitations. By integrating electromechanical and computerized interfaces, robotic systems enhance traditional laparoscopy. These advanced systems digitize surgical procedures and imaging, allowing for real-time processing and modifications that improve precision and efficiency. 

Robotic surgery is not a new concept. For example, the first version of the da Vinci surgical system, with three robotic arms, was introduced in Europe in January 1999 and received FDA approval in July 2000. Since then, robot-assisted surgery has been adopted across all surgical disciplines, revolutionizing procedures in gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and plastic surgery. 

Leading Robotic Surgery Systems 

Several robotic surgery systems have gained prominence in the medical field. Here are some well-known examples: 

• Hugo by Medtronic 
• Da Vinci by Intuitive 
• Mako by Stryker 
• Navio by Smith & Nephew 
• Monarch by Auris Health 

Benefits of Robotic Surgery 

Surgeons who utilize robot-assisted techniques report numerous benefits. One key advantage is the ability to perform surgeries via a transcervical approach, involving a small incision in the neck. This area heals quickly with minimal pain, offering significant patient comfort. 

In delicate procedures, such as connecting blood vessels and lymphatic vessels, robotic surgery plays a crucial role. Plastic surgeons emphasize its importance in ensuring successful transplants while minimizing patient risks. Anecdotal evidence suggests that patients undergoing robotic surgery experience less pain and a quicker return to normal activities compared to traditional methods. 

How JAM-Labs addresses this market trend

Robotic solutions typically include a 3D view for the surgeon. In an integrated operating room (OR), ORION by JAM-Labs helps integrate the robotics solution with other equipment, allowing features such as streaming, recording, or routing the view to a wall monitor for OR staff to follow the procedure in 2D. This integration enhances the overall functionality and efficiency of robotic surgeries. 

2. AI, VR & AR in surgery: transforming the future of healthcare

Artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) are revolutionizing the field of surgery, offering unprecedented advancements in precision, safety, and efficiency. These cutting-edge technologies are enhancing surgical practices, from real-time assistance during procedures to innovative training methods for surgeons. 

AI in Surgery: Enhancing Precision and Safety 

AI technology is making significant strides in surgery by analyzing real-time images to assist surgeons. These AI systems help identify specific tissues and structures during procedures, reducing cognitive load and minimizing the likelihood of errors. By drawing from extensive surgical video data, these systems ensure accuracy and reliability, providing invaluable support in navigating the complexities of internal organs. 

AI’s role in surgery extends beyond pre-surgical diagnostics. Real-time AI assistance during operations marks a significant milestone, transforming surgical practices by offering enhanced precision and safety. The integration of AI technology into various surgical fields, such as gynecological and urological surgeries, promises a global transformation in surgical practices. 

VR in Surgery: Immersive Training and Real-Time Visualization 

Virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing surgical training and real-time visualization during operations. VR headsets provide immersive experiences for surgeons, allowing them to practice procedures in a highly realistic virtual environment. This hands-on training helps surgeons refine their skills and improve their performance in actual surgeries. 

During operations, VR technology overlays crucial information onto the surgeon’s field of vision, enhancing precision and streamlining the surgical process. The ability to visualize real-time data and compare outcomes against similar procedures improves decision-making and patient care quality. As VR technology continues to advance, its integration into surgical practices is set to enhance healthcare productivity and efficiency. 

AR in Surgery: Real-Time Data and 3D Visualization 

Augmented reality (AR) is another transformative technology in surgery, offering real-time data visualization and interactive 3D representations of patients’ organs. AR headsets enable surgeons to manipulate virtual monitors seamlessly, facilitating swift decision-making and improving the overall surgical experience. 

By enhancing spatial awareness and allowing for collaborative decision-making, AR significantly improves surgical outcomes. Surgeons can plan and tailor operations according to each patient’s unique anatomy, anticipating surgical challenges with unprecedented clarity. The versatility of AR technology suggests broad applications across various surgical domains, from liver and heart surgeries to gynecological and urological procedures. 

Benefits of AI, VR and AR in surgery 

The integration of AI, VR, and AR in surgery offers numerous benefits for both surgeons and patients. For surgeons, these technologies enhance precision, reduce cognitive load, and improve decision-making during procedures. Real-time data visualization and interactive 3D models provide a clearer understanding of the surgical field, leading to more accurate and efficient operations. 

For patients, the benefits are equally significant. Enhanced surgical precision reduces the likelihood of errors, leading to better outcomes and faster recovery times. Minimally invasive procedures supported by these technologies result in less pain and scarring, improving the overall patient experience. As these technologies continue to evolve, they promise to make surgeries safer, more efficient, and more effective. 

How JAM-Labs addresses this market trend 

JAM-Labs is actively engaged in integrating AI, VR, and AR technologies into surgical practices. Our commitment to innovation is exemplified by the recent launch of our Cognitive Assistant platform. Powered by Computer-Aided Augmentation (CAA) technology and utilizing the Holoscan SDK from NVIDIA, this platform marks a significant step forward in enhancing the precision and efficiency of surgical procedures. 

3. Environmental responsibility

The healthcare sector is increasingly recognizing its significant environmental impact, particularly through hospitals’ contribution to global carbon emissions. Operating rooms, with their high energy consumption from medical equipment, intensive lighting, and HVAC requirements, coupled with the use of single-use items, generate substantial waste. 

To address these challenges, there is a growing movement towards sustainability in healthcare. Initiatives include reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and adopting eco-friendly technologies and practices. Smart power management systems, sustainable materials, and environmentally conscious operational protocols are being implemented to decrease the carbon footprint of healthcare operations while maintaining or enhancing patient care quality. 

Benefit of environmental awareness 

Embracing environmental responsibility offers substantial benefits to healthcare institutions. By optimizing energy use and reducing waste, hospitals can achieve significant cost savings over time. Sustainable practices also enhance the hospital’s reputation as a responsible community member and attract environmentally conscious patients and staff. 

In addition to these benefits, embracing environmental awareness directly contributes to preserving the planet’s health. By reducing carbon emissions and minimizing resource consumption, healthcare institutions play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and promoting a sustainable future. This proactive stance not only benefits the immediate hospital environment but also extends to the broader community and global ecosystem. 

How JAM-Labs addresses this market trend 

JAM-Labs is committed to advancing environmental sustainability in healthcare through innovative solutions. Our DIPS (Digital Integrated Platform Solution) system for example, monitors and optimizes environmental conditions, such as temperature, humidity, air particle levels etc., ensuring optimal operating room environments. All components of the ORION solution feature low-power consumption, a long operational lifetime, and a zero-footprint, eco-friendly design, contributing to more sustainable and efficient healthcare facilities. By minimizing the number of components and employing smart integration, JAM-Labs reduces both the operational footprint in the OR and the overall environmental impact. 

About JAM-Labs

At JAM-Labs, we believe that all surgical procedures worldwide should be performed in a safe environment with high quality equipment.
Headquartered in Fremont, CA, JAM-Labs was founded in 2019 and has offices in USA, Europe and Asia.