The Hummingbird device is a new surgical tool designed for ear tube placement surgery, also known as tympanostomy or myringotomy. Ear tubes, also called tympanostomy tubes or pressure equalization (PE) tubes, are tiny tubes inserted into the eardrum to allow air into the middle ear and prevent fluid buildup. The Hummingbird provides an innovative approach to ear tube surgery through its use of piezoelectric technology.
What is the intended use of the Hummingbird device?
The Hummingbird device is intended for transtympanic perforation of the tympanic membrane (eardrum) to facilitate tympanostomy tube placement in pediatric and adult patients. Essentially, the device creates a small opening in the eardrum so ear tubes can be inserted into the middle ear space. This opening allows fluid drainage and ventilation which helps treat conditions like otitis media with effusion (fluid in the ear), chronic ear infections, Eustachian tube dysfunction, and more. The minimally invasive procedure can be performed under local anesthesia in a doctor’s office setting.
How does the Hummingbird device work?
The Hummingbird utilizes piezoelectric technology to precisely perforate the eardrum with unparalleled accuracy and control. Piezoelectricity refers to the generation of electric charge in certain materials in response to applied mechanical stress. In the Hummingbird device, an electrical signal triggers a piezoelectric element to expand and retract at ultrasonic frequencies, causing the attached perforator tip to vibrate. This fast vibration enables clean and precise cuts through the eardrum tissue. The piezoelectric approach avoids some drawbacks of traditional methods like physical force, lasers or electrocautery.
Some key benefits of the piezoelectric mechanism include:
- Extremely fine, micrometer-level tip movement for accuracy
- Ability to stop perforation instantly
- Very stable depth control during perforation
- Minimal heat generation and tissue damage
- Adjustable perforation size
The surgeon controls the handheld Hummingbird device to guide the vibrating perforator tip through the ear canal and contact the eardrum at the desired location. Within milliseconds, a clean and precise opening is created without damaging surrounding tissue. The perforation size can range from 1-3mm based on surgeon settings and intended tube size. The tool gives surgeons enhanced operative control and efficiency compared to traditional perforation methods.
What are the potential benefits of the Hummingbird device?
The Hummingbird offers several potential benefits for ear tube surgery:
- Precision: The piezoelectric mechanism offers micrometer-level control and accuracy for clean and precise perforations.
- Efficiency: The fast perforation takes only milliseconds, improving operative time and workflow.
- Safety: Minimal heat is generated, reducing collateral tissue damage.
- Adjustability: Perforation size can be tuned to intended tube size.
- Accessibility: The office-based procedure expands access to care.
- Patient experience: Local anesthesia improves comfort over general anesthesia.
- Cost savings: Office setting reduces costs compared to surgery in hospital operating room.
By enabling a quick, targeted myringotomy, the Hummingbird can improve the accuracy and efficiency of ear tube placements. The enhanced control over perforation may lead to better outcomes and fewer complications. Placements may also be attempted earlier due to the simplified procedure. Expanding access through office-based procedures can allow more patients to benefit from ear tubes when needed.
What are some key features of the Hummingbird device?
Some key features that enable the precision and performance of the Hummingbird include:
- Piezoelectric mechanism: Provides ultrasonic vibrations for clean perforations.
- Disposable perforators: Single-use perforator tips optimize sharpness and sterility.
- Depth guard: Protects against over-insertion of perforator.
- LED illumination: Light at tip improves visualization.
- Reusable handpiece: Ergonomic design for comfortable grip and control.
- Variable speed/power: Surgeon can adjust perforation settings.
- Compact size: Fits easily into ear canal.
- Rechargeable battery: Enables cordless, portable use.
Together, these features allow the Hummingbird to safely produce precise perforations for accurate and efficient ear tube placements.
What is the basic procedure for using the Hummingbird device?
The basic procedure for ear tube placement with the Hummingbird is straightforward and minimally invasive:
- Patient is prepared and placed under local anesthesia to numb the ear canal and eardrum.
- The ear is examined under microscopy and the location for perforation determined.
- The Hummingbird device is introduced into the ear canal until the tip contacts the eardrum.
- The surgeon activates the piezoelectric perforator to create a small hole in the eardrum.
- Fluid buildup behind the eardrum is suctioned out through the perforation if present.
- The ear tube is inserted into the hole in the eardrum.
- The procedure is repeated in the other ear if necessary.
- The patient is monitored briefly in the office prior to discharge.
The piezoelectric perforation itself takes only a fraction of a second. No stitching or extensive recovery is required following the office procedure. Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately or the next day.
What are the potential risks or complications?
As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved with ear tube placement using the Hummingbird device. However, the risks are low with this minimally invasive approach. Potential risks include:
- Failed perforation
- Damage to surrounding ear structures
- Bleeding or infection
- Displaced or blocked tube
- Persistent eardrum perforation after tube extrusion
- Scarring of the eardrum
- Need for repeat tube placement
The precision of the piezoelectric perforation helps avoid collateral tissue damage and complication risks compared to other methods. Proper patient selection and surgical technique also reduce risks. Many complications can be managed with observation or additional minor procedures if needed.
What is the likely recovery and aftercare following use of the Hummingbird device?
Recovery after ear tube placement with the Hummingbird device is quick and comfortable since it is performed under local anesthesia. Patients can typically resume normal activity immediately or within 24 hours. Some key points about the recovery include:
- No extensive resting or downtime is required.
- Discomfort is minimal and may include slight ear pain, popping or clicking sounds.
- Any ear drainage usually subsides within a few days.
- Orals steroids or antibiotic eardrops may be prescribed for a few days.
- Water precautions are necessary while tubes are in place.
- Follow-up appointments allow monitoring of tube position and function.
- Tubes typically extrude on their own within 6-18 months as the eardrum heals.
Proper aftercare, especially water precautions, should be followed to prevent tube blockage and minimize infection risks. However, the enhanced healing from office-based Hummingbird procedures allows most patients to resume normal work and school activities within a day or two.
What types of healthcare providers can use the Hummingbird device?
The Hummingbird device is designed to be used by ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeons and other healthcare providers qualified to perform ear tube placement procedures. Specific providers able to use the Hummingbird may include:
- Otolaryngologists (ENT physicians or surgeons)
- ENT nurse practitioners or physician assistants
- Pediatric otolaryngologists
- General otolaryngologists
- Office-based otology centers
Ideally, providers should have specialty training in ear and hearing disorders as well as myringotomy procedures. Some pediatricians who frequently insert tubes in the office setting may also be candidates for the Hummingbird. Appropriate training on the device is recommended to ensure safe and effective use.
Are there any pediatric-specific considerations with using the Hummingbird device?
The Hummingbird device is suitable for performing ear tube surgery in both children and adults. However, there are a few special considerations for use in pediatric patients:
- Smaller ear canal size may require use of a pediatric-sized speculum.
- Younger children may require general anesthesia.
- Higher risk of otorrhea (ear drainage) after surgery.
- Higher long-term tube extrusion rates.
- Need for more vigilant water precautions.
- Frequent follow-up to monitor tube position and middle ear status.
- Higher likelihood of repeat tube placement procedures.
The Hummingbird’s enhanced precision and control can facilitate surgery in pediatric ears. The quick procedure and minimal discomfort also benefit children. With proper precautions, the Hummingbird enables ear tube placement even for very young patients to improve outcomes.
What types of training and support are available for healthcare providers to use the Hummingbird device?
ENVISIONTEC, the manufacturer of the Hummingbird device, offers training and support to ensure optimal use of the technology. Resources available may include:
- Introductory online product training sessions
- Hands-on device training workshops
- Surgical technique guide documents and videos
- 24/7 technical phone and online support
- On-site in-servicing for hospitals and surgical centers
- Extended service plans for maintenance
- Software updates for performance improvements
- Optional surgical services via ENVISIONTEC partners
ENVISIONTEC aims to provide the necessary training, tools and support so providers can safely and confidently use the Hummingbird device to improve ear tube placement procedures at their institutions. Contact ENVISIONTEC sales to inquire about training options and availability.
How much does the Hummingbird device cost for healthcare providers or facilities?
As an advanced surgical tool utilizing piezoelectric technology, the upfront cost of acquiring the Hummingbird device is substantial. However, given the benefits of improved ear tube placement accuracy, efficiency and patient experience, many providers find the value justifies the initial investment.
The approximate costs involved with integrating the Hummingbird system include:
- Hummingbird Pro Generator: $18,000 – $20,000
- Hummingbird handpiece: $1,200 per additional unit
- Packages of 10 disposable perforators: $200 per package
- Service contract (optional): $2,000 – $3,000 per year
This reflects an initial capital equipment investment around $20,000 – $25,000 to get started. Disposable perforator costs per procedure are minimal. Ongoing costs include service contracts and additional handpieces for busier clinics. While substantial, these expenses may be offset if the improved procedure efficiency allows higher patient volume and revenue.
Some avenues that may help manage the costs include: applying for equipment grants, sharing the system across providers in a group practice, or offering the service at a premium price point. Contact ENVISIONTEC sales to discuss purchase options and financing.
Conclusion
The Hummingbird device by ENVISIONTEC represents an innovative leap forward in ear tube surgery. By harnessing piezoelectric energy for clean and precise perforations, this technology can improve the patient experience, accuracy, and efficiency of procedures. The enhanced operative control also has the potential to reduce complications and improve outcomes. While the upfront investment is significant, the value for both providers and patients makes this equipment well worth consideration for frequent ear tube placers.
