Top 10 Medical Innovations for 2009

At its 2008 Medical Innovation Summit, Cleveland Clinic presented its list of Top 10 Medical Innovations for 2009. Months prior to the presentation, a rigorous selection process began, where Cleveland Clinic clinicians and researchers are asked: "What game-changing medical technology, device, or therapy do you see breaking through in 2009?" The purpose of this annual listing is to share the perspective of Cleveland Clinic leaders on what innovations they believe will help to re-shape healthcare in the next year.

The Top 10 Medical Innovations for 2009

1. Use of Circulating Tumor Cell Technology
   Use of new technology to measure circulating tumor cells as a predictor of success of chemotherapy.
2. Warm Organ Perfusion Device
   Warm organ perfusion device to preserve organs for transplantation during transport.
3. Diaphragm Pacing System
   Use of a diaphragm (phrenic nerve) stimulator to enable paralyzed patients to breathe without the assistance of a mechanical ventilator.
4. Multi-Spectral Imaging Systems
   Improvements in multi-spectral image analysis to assess multiple protein pathway configuration in a single sample/cell.
5. Percutaneous Mitral Valve Regurgitation Repair
   Use of a special clip to percutaneously repair mitral valve regurgitation (MVR).
6. New Strategies for Creating Vaccines for Avian Flu
   Use of new strategies for creating vaccines for avian flu, including genetically-engineered virus-like particles (VLPs) as the basis for vaccines.
7. LESS and NOTES Applications
   Laparoendoscopic single-site surgery (LESS) and Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopy (NOTES) for nephrectomy, cystectomy, prostatectomy, colon resection and other applications.
8. Integration of Diffusion Tensor Imaging (Tractography)
   Integration of diffusion tensor imaging (tractography) with surgical navigation of the brain to minimize damage to fiber tracts during brain surgery.
9. Doppler-Guided Uterine Artery Occlusion
   Doppler-guided non-invasive transvaginal uterine artery occlusion for treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids.
10. Private Sector National Health Information Exchange
    Use of a common exchange standard among participants to enable access through the Internet regardless of provider source.