Higher-acuity procedures are migrating to ASCs with the help of major advancements, including robotic technologies, according to ASC Focus.
Three trends in outpatient utilization of robotics:
1. Hospital collaboration. Sovereign Healthcare's North Valley Surgery Center in Scottsdale, Ariz., collaborates with Scottsdale-based HonorHealth on its robotics program. The ASC uses a robotics system for partial and total knee replacements, but utilization could expand to other orthopedic procedures.
2. Vendor attention. Robotics companies are catering to ASCs, which they see as an optimal setting for their technologies. Device manufacturers are launching more systems designed for procedures that are common in ASCs, such as colon or rectal surgeries.
3. Future competition. One major robotic surgery system is nearing the expiration date for its patent, meaning more players will likely enter the market and accelerate advancements. Increased competition could go hand in hand with a decrease in costs.
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