Even without clinical studies showing that clearer, crisper images improve patient outcomes, there's no disputing the advantages of HD in the OR.

The arrival of high-definition video displays in GI endoscopy, laparoscopic cholecystectomy, arthroscopic joint repair and other minimally invasive procedures brought surgeons more detail, sharper pictures, greater color accuracy and a better sense of depth perception. You've benefited, too, since the technology attracts physicians' cases and, in lending confidence to surgical techniques, fosters workflow efficiency.

However, enhanced vertical-by-horizontal screen resolution isn't the be-all and end-all of video technology. Other recent advances have made the displays easier on the eye, safer to use and even more informative. Here's how:

• Better backlighting. LEDs aren't just revolutionizing overhead lights. Video displays that incorporate individual light-emitting diodes for each pixel provide brighter images than traditional LCD displays, in which a single light source illuminates all of the pixels.
• On-screen multitasking. Large screens that can display images and input from more than one device simultaneously let surgeons observe and monitor a range of information quickly, conveniently and with consistent quality.
• Visual aids. Displays designed with anti-glare screens and wide-angle visibility make it easier for surgical personnel to watch the action, no matter where in the room they're standing. A display that produces high-contrast images may lessen the need to dim the lights during its use, which supports staff safety, as do display systems that can receive signals from imaging equipment wirelessly.
• Higher than high-def. A new resolution standard known as ultra-high definition or 4K delivers images that are 2,160 pixels high by 3,840 pixels wide. That's 4 times the resolution of 1,080 by 1,920 pixel "full HD," and a world of difference in clarity, detail and color, say its proponents. Keep in mind, however, that not every equipment manufacturer has developed ultra HD imaging instruments to feed these displays yet.

Ampronix
Medvix Surgical Monitor
medvix.com
(800) 400-7972
Pricing: $3,650 for 26-inch monitor (pictured)
FYI: Available with 19-, 24- and 26-inch high-definition displays, Medvix monitors are OR-ready, made from medical grade materials and a single, bonded protective panel with sealed controls for easy cleaning. Flexible video input/output options enable seamless integration into new and existing systems. The LED backlit displays feature resolution up to 2.3 megapixels, contrast up to 1,400:1, accurate natural color reproduction and a wide viewing angle, all of which help to reduce eye strain and deliver high-quality images.

Eizo
RadiForce LS580W
eizo.com
(562) 431-5011
Pricing: $90,000 to $95,000
FYI: This 58-inch diagnostic-grade monitor is ideal for ORs that demand the simultaneous display of multiple images. The LS580W presents 8 megapixels of high-resolution data, letting users view all images consistently and conveniently on a single screen without the regional color differences or distracting bezels of separate monitors. Minimal color shifts when viewing the screen from off-angles enables comfortable views for the entire surgical team.

FSN Medical Technologies
FS-P2603D Medical Display Monitor
fsnmed.com
(714) 300-0540
Pricing: $6,500
FYI: FSN's 26-inch LED display features rapid signal detection for compatibility among OR technology; expanded input/output options — including dual DVI and onboard DC-out power — for smaller component needs; and clinical color calibration for accurate images. The company's display units can withstand bumps, positioning adjustments and repeated cleanings to provide long-term performance in sterile-field environments.

NDS Surgical Imaging
EndoVue 24-inch Surgical Display
ndssi.com
(866) 637-5237
Pricing: Less than $2,500
FYI: Fully compliant for surgical use, NDS's EndoVue 24-inch display offers widescreen HD visualization at a low cost. It features long-life LED backlight technology and lightweight design, and it can accommodate HD signals from a variety of imaging sources, including endoscopes, ultrasound, PACS, angiography and vital signs monitors. The EndoVue incorporates a sealed front enclosure, patient-safe 24-volt DC power and accurate color response.

Panasonic
EJ-MLA26U1 LED Monitor
panasonic.com
(877) 803-8492
Pricing: $5,995
FYI: Features a 32-inch, 16:9, LED backlit screen with 3,840 by 2,160 "Quad Full-HD" resolution (4 times the number of pixels in 1,080p video). The new monitor offers 1,000:1 contrast and displays 1.07 billion colors. It incorporates 4 3G-SDI inputs and outputs, can be remote controlled via RS-232C and GPI, and can also be configured as part of a multi-screen display.

Sony Electronics
LMD-2765 MD Monitor
pro.sony.com
(800) 883-6817
Pricing: not disclosed
FYI: Sony's new, 27-inch LMD-2765 MD medical-grade video monitor has been designed for easy, intuitive use. Its 1,920 by 1,080 monitor is LED backlit, and the company's OptiContrast panel technology adds a special resin layer to minimize reflection and glare while increasing contrast and brightness. The system automatically performs image correction. The monitor's front panel is resistant against condensing, dripping or spraying fluids.

Steris
Vividimage HD Surgical Displays
steris.com
(800) 548-4873
Pricing: not disclosed
FYI: Steris's Vividimage HD displays deliver realistic color accuracy for true-to-life visualization; a glare-free screen; and the VectorSharp Algorithm Image enhancement technique, which lets you distinguish fine structure details. The unit is vent-free to reduce the risk of sterile field contamination, accepts a diverse range of camera and equipment signals, and optionally includes a microphone for telephone and video conferencing.

Stryker Endoscopy
VisionPro SYNK Wireless LED Display
stryker.com
(800) 624-4422
Pricing: $6,400
FYI: With increased brightness, contrast and custom gamma curves, the VisionPro SYNK provides improved clarity and color reproduction. A protective layer reduces accidental panel damage, and double-sided anti-reflective coating reduces glare and reflection. Part of the SYNK Wireless platform, the monitor can use the system's dual-channel functionality for wireless transmission of secondary video signals from Stryker's or other manufacturers' equipment.