Our First 100 Cases - What We Have Learned
We did it. ClearCam’s goal to perform 100 cases before making a public announcement to nationwide media was reached on March 24, 2021. We were able to prove the clinical relevance that the Kelling device was effective for clearing a laparoscope of fat, condensation, blood, and other surgical debris, without removing it from the patient’s body. In doing so, we were able to determine an even greater benefit of the device and develop the Kelling 1.5 in the process.
Despite the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic with increased restrictions imposed in operating rooms, and on sales calls and demonstrations, we were still able to reach our objectives: perfecting laparoscopic visualization for better patient outcomes, saving valuable OR time, and reducing surgeon frustration. Here are a few of the additional benefits of our pilot program:
Benefit #1 – Kelling 1.5 Developed
Our team recognized an additional value of the Kelling device: the Kelling does not require a trocar since the outer sheath allows access into the abdominal cavity. This innovation allows a surgeon to enter the body 4 cm further and the size of the incision can be 3mm smaller with Kelling 1.5 compared to a standard trocar. The sleeve can also accept additional instrumentation, including graspers scissors and ligating instruments. Lastly, it means an even greater cost savings to the facility and one less device that needs to be opened per procedure.
Benefit #2 - Advancing Training with New Video
Training is vitally important when a new device is introduced. During our wait times we were able to create a new training video for surgeons and O.R. staff to watch to become more comfortable with Kelling. This form of communication is vital in not only training the surgeon and first assist in using the device, but also in introducing its simplicity and advantages to patients and surgeons. Hands on training is, of course, incorporated as well. Being able to see Kelling in use during a procedure ahead of conducting a procedure has proved to be very valuable.
Benefit #3 – Two Sales Reps Added to Team
Once we hit the 100 human trials, we were able to hire two new sales representatives to introduce the Kelling on the west coast, with the plan to expand our Sales Team in other key geographic areas in the coming months. With a dozen hospitals, including pediatric hospitals, joining in our initial clinical pilot, we’re gaining quite a bit of momentum, and now will show commercial interest and viability throughout the country.
Benefit #4 – The Addition of the SureFit Spacer
It was determined in the first 25 cases that being able to pre-set the wiper to for exact lens/wiper contact was paramount. After a day in the lab, a viable solution was developed and we were able to fast track the approval, manufacturing and packaging of the SureFit Spacer. This addition to the Kelling has made a huge impact on the acceptance rate and adoption of the device. We were able to address a problem, find a workable solution, and put it into action in under 4 months! This is almost unheard of in the medical device marketplace.
It has been a very productive 6 months since our first cases in September. I am extremely excited and energized for what the next 6 months will manifest for ClearCam, Inc.
