To revolutionise lateral skull base surgery, the Princess Alexandra ENT department will utilise cutting-edge technology from Karl Storz. 4K endoscopes (flexible tubes with a lens at one end and a camera at the other) and endoscopic instruments (small instruments used through the endoscope tube) will allow some lateral skull base procedures to be carried out through the ear, with no external incision. This system will improve visualisation and identification of internal structures and tumour tissue. The VITOM 3D system provides life-like 3D visualisation of structures and tumour tissue. This technology will not only improve more invasive lateral skull base surgeries (where endoscopic surgery is not possible), but in addition greatly enhance surgical training.
Revolutionising Lateral Skull Base Surgery
Initiative Type
Technology
Status
Deliver
Added
Last updated
Summary
Key dates
Sep 2017
Sep 2019
Implementation sites
Princess Alexandra Hospital
Partnerships
Healthcare Improvement Unit
Aim
Provides an opportunity to pilot and evaluate new technologies within 'real world' clinical settings in the Queensland context.
Benefits
The potential benefits of this technology include:
- In an Australian first - 4K Endoscopes will improve visualisation and identification of internal structures and tumour tissue.
- These technologies will improve the patient experience through reduced invasiveness, shorter hospital stays, and cosmetic improvement.
- These technologies will provide value for money for Queenslanders through shorter hospital stays and shorter procedure times.
- For the first time in Australia -VITOM 3D will provide enhanced life-like 3D visualisation.
- The advanced visualisation provided by these technologies will improve tumour removal and reduce collateral damage.
- The 3D visualisation afforded by the VITOM will be an invaluable tool for training junior doctors in lateral skull base surgery.
Background
This technology was funded through the New Technology Funding and Evaluation Program (NTFEP). The NTFEP funds the introduction and evaluation of new technologies that:
- Are safe and effective
- Provide better health outcomes
- Provide value for money
- Provide greater access to care.
The evaluation findings will inform recommendations regarding the future use and/or investment of the technology within Queensland.
Evaluation and Results
Key findings will be published at the end of the evaluation period.
