February 26, 2024
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6min

Cervical cancer ranks as the second most common cancer among women in Sri Lanka, accounting for an estimated 1,407 diagnoses and 780 deaths each year.1 Without intervention, projections forecast a potential death toll of 58,754 by 2070 and 115,137 by 2120.2

Addressing this urgent need to eliminate cervical cancer , a panel discussion was convened comprising experts such as Dr. Chithramalee de Silva, Director of Maternal and Child Health and Consultant Community Physician; Dr. Ramani Punchihewa, Consultant Histopathologist at the National Hospital for Respiratory Disease; Dr. J Padmaka Silva, Consultant Community Physician and National Program Manager for the Well Woman Program; and Nirmali Samaratunga, Chairperson, Rotary Cervical Cancer Elimination project.

 



 

Moderated by Dr. Sandeep Sewlikar, Head of Medical, Scientific, and Regulatory Affairs at Roche Diagnostics India & Neighbouring Markets, the discussion highlighted the steps taken by Government of Sri Lanka towards the elimination of the cervical cancer, programs undertaken like Well Women Clinic, pilot project in Kalutara district to analyse different methods of cervical cancer screening among ever-married women in 35-year and 45-year cohorts, and steps taken by the Family Health Bureau to align cervical cancer elimination targets with that of World Health Organisation’s (WHO) goals.

Key highlights of the Kalutara project:

  • A comparative analysis assessed the effectiveness of various screening methodologies such as Pap smear, LBC and HPV DNA to determine the most effective screening method for detecting indications of cervical cancer among married women aged 35 to 45.3
  • The findings showcased that the Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia (CIN) detection rate by colposcopy was higher with HPV DNA screening than other methods.3

The panellists also discussed the WHO recommendation of using HPV-DNA based detection as the primary screening method, starting at the age of 30 years, with regular testing every 5–10 years.3 A thorough examination of the current cervical cancer screening landscape in Sri Lanka was presented, along with detailed plans for expanding screening programs to reach a broader demographic. Furthermore, Nirmali Samaratunga illuminated the crucial role played by organisations such as the Rotary Club of Colombo in raising awareness and facilitating access to cervical cancer screening programs across the country.

Dr. Chithramalee said, “Proactive initiatives like policy advocacy, health system strengthening, increasing coverage & equity, quality of care, and raising community awareness on screening are being undertaken by the Well Women Program, Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka. Based on the evidence that has been generated worldwide on the effectiveness of different screening methods used by many countries for cervical cancer screening, HPV DNA testing has been identified as the most effective. Hence, the government of Sri Lanka has taken a decision to introduce HPV DNA based screening in phase wise manner.

Dr. Padmaka Silva added, “Through vaccination, early screening, and education, we aim to make significant strides towards eliminating cervical cancer. To screen 70% of women with high precision tests we have introduced HPV DNA as the primary screening test for cervical cancer from 2020 onwards. With our extensive network of 1000 Well women clinics in 354 public health units in nine provinces in the country, we have made significant strides for cervical cancer screening and hope to expand the screening program in a phased manner with HPV DNA in all districts in the country by 2030.”

Dr. Sandeep Sewlikar outlining the crucial need for a multipronged strategy to tackle cervical cancer in Sri Lanka, expressed  gratitude to the team involved in executing the project, while also recognising their commitment and hard work as pivotal in advancing the fight against cervical cancer in the country. “We are inspired by Sri Lanka’s efforts and are delighted to support the Family Health Bureau, and Ministry of Health, as a diagnostics provider. With the WHO prequalification for our cobas HPV test, we are confident that together we can help countries overcome this preventable cancer through timely screening.”

 


 


February 17, 2024
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5min

We proudly announce that MyFootBalance® 3D foot scanning technology has been shortlisted in the Sports Medical category in the Sports Technology Awards 2024.

MyFootBalance®, FootBalance’s patented 3D Foot Scanning Service, combines advanced 3D scanning with biomechanical foot analysis and personalised footwear and gear recommendations, making it the most comprehensive 3D foot scanning technology in the market.

The Sports Technology Awards celebrate and recognize outstanding achievements in the ever-evolving field of sports technology, honouring innovation and excellence across various sectors. It’s like The Oscars of Sports Technology.

Judging The Awards were leading technologists, business visionaries, and champion athletes. Renowned figures such as Sir Steve Redgrave, Nasser Hussein, Stef Reid and Adam Lallana, along with representatives from Magic Johnson Enterprises, FIFA, PGA European Tour, ATP, and TikTok, have scrutinized the submissions, ensuring that only the most innovative and impactful technologies make it to the shortlist.

 
 
 
 



 
 
 

3D Foot Scanning Technology - FootBalance

”We are delighted and tremendously honoured to be one of the finalists in the Sport Technology Awards 2024. For the past 20 years, we’ve been the forerunners of innovation, pushing the boundaries of technology to revolutionise the sports and medical industry.” said Erkki Hakkala, FootBalance’s founder.

Our unique concept integrates advanced health technology, customised products, and personalised experiences. However, we have a greater purpose beyond technology and products: our holistic approach to health and wellbeing aims to enhance quality of life, ensuring better lives and maintaining active, fit, and pain-free lifestyles. Hakkala added.

The winners of The Awards will be revealed at a new-look ceremony scheduled for Thursday, May 9th at The Londoner, in the heart of the city’s West End. The event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of innovation, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from around the world to honour excellence in sports technology.

  3D Foot Scanning by FootBalance

FootBalance’s story

FootBalance is a Nordic, holistic health driven brand. Proud of its medical origins and guided by evidence and science, the company custom creates a personalised fit through its advanced 3D foot scanning technology and supporting product portfolio, including its award-winning custom orthotics.

With its holistic approach to foot health & wellbeing, FootBalance strives to improve quality of life, making lives better and keeping us active, fit and pain-free. Today, FootBalance is present in more than 50 countries across 1,500 points of distribution, having conducted more than 5 million foot analyses and sold over 4 million custom orthotics worldwide.

Since 2019, FootBalance Sri Lanka has served thousands of clients in a short period, including elite sports personalities from Sri Lanka Cricket, Basketball, Netball, Volleyball, and Athletics. Our custom moulded insoles have been recommended by healthcare professionals, including podiatrists and orthopedic specialists, as part of the initial treatment plan for many foot related pains and injuries.

3D Foot Scanning Sri Lanka


February 6, 2024
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4min

Ninewells Hospital, Sri Lanka’s leader in woman and childcare has proudly achieved the Gold Standard Certification from the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka (GBCSL), becoming the first private hospital in Sri Lanka to receive the prestigious recognition. This certification underscores Ninewells’ position as the leader of sustainability in Sri Lanka’s healthcare sector, setting new benchmark for private healthcare providers across the Island.

 



 

Commenting on this milestone, Dr Vibash Wijeratne, Director & Chief Operations Officer of Ninewells Hospital said “Achieving the Gold Standard of the Green Building Council of Sri Lanka demonstrates our unwavering commitment to sustainability and excellence across all facets of healthcare operation. As the first private hospital in Sri Lanka to receive this prestigious recognition, Ninewells Hospital is setting a new benchmark for environmentally-conscious healthcare providers in the region. We believe that sustainability is integral to exceptional healthcare, and this achievement aligns with our promise to maintain international standards while providing patients with unparalleled healthcare services in a warm, welcoming, and environmentally responsible environment.”

Mr. Anushka De Mel, the Resident Engineer & Facility Manager at Ninewells added “Embracing sustainability is a responsibility we owe to our community and the environment, unlocking the potential for great strides toward environmental responsibility, from solar energy initiatives to waste reduction. Thus, the Gold Standard Certification from the GBCSL reaffirms our dedication to pioneering sustainable healthcare practices in Sri Lanka, from the ground up.”

Established as a pioneering force in women and child healthcare services, Ninewells Hospital has successfully evolved over its storied 20-year journey. Located strategically in Narahenpita, the Hospital stands amid a highly urbanized area, surrounded by other prominent private hospitals. Ninewells’ commitment to responsible healthcare extends beyond medical excellence, embracing environmentally friendly practices across its operations. Driven by a focus on patient wellbeing, eco-preservation, and energy efficiency, Ninewells has undertaken substantial measures to reduce its carbon footprint and adverse effects on the environment.

Notably, a net-metered solar electricity system generating approximately 10,400 kWh of energy each month has been installed onsite, complemented by a solar-heated hot water system. In addition to this, mechanically ventilated spaces, CFC-free HVAC systems, water-efficient fixtures of renowned brands, and a dedication to waste reduction further underscore Ninewells’ commitment to sustainability. The Hospital premises is also designed with tranquillity in mind, featuring lush greenery and other environmental elements that help preserve the natural surroundings. Furthermore, Ninewells has also demonstrated a sincere dedication to reducing the volume of waste that reaches landfills and conducts many ongoing initiatives to encourage recycling, responsible disposal practices, and minimizing the use of plastics.

Accordingly, in recognition of its eco-friendly initiatives, Ninewells Hospital now proudly holds the Gold Standard certification from the GBCSL.

The GBCSL is a consensus-based not-for-profit organization, committed to developing a sustainable property industry in Sri Lanka by encouraging the adoption of green building practices. It is the only representative member in Sri Lanka of the World Green Building Council, which represents a large number of countries ranging from developed to developing nations.


February 5, 2024
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3min

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 February 2024 – Zuellig Pharma, a leading healthcare solutions company in Asia, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of two brands, Cialis® (Tadalafil) and Alimta® (Pemetrexed), from Eli Lilly and Company (“Lilly”) for select ASEAN markets, including Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines and Thailand, via its wholly-owned subsidiary, Zanovex Pte. Ltd. (“Zanovex”). Zanovex will own the trademarks and marketing authorisations, and license manufacturing know-how for Alimta®, an established chemotherapy drug for the treatment of a certain type of non-small cell lung cancer and malignant pleural mesothelioma, and Cialis®, a leading men’s health product for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

 



 

ZP Therapeutics, the commercial division of Zuellig Pharma, will promote the two brands in the relevant markets. Prior to the acquisition, ZP Therapeutics was responsible for the promotion and distribution of the brands as part of a broader, long-term strategic partnership with Lilly in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand.

“This acquisition marks a major milestone in the evolution of Zuellig Pharma to becoming an integrated healthcare solutions company. It demonstrates the increasing strength of ZP Therapeutics, which has extensive in-market expertise and capabilities in driving growth of healthcare products in Asia. We look forward to further expanding our commercial presence in the region through meaningful strategic partnerships with the world’s leading biopharma companies as we remain focused on our purpose of making healthcare more accessible to communities in Asia,” said John Graham, Group CEO, Zuellig Pharma.

About Zuellig Pharma
Zuellig Pharma is a leading healthcare solutions company in Asia, and our mission is to make healthcare more accessible to the communities we serve. We provide world-class distribution, digital and commercial services to support the growing healthcare needs in this region. The company was started a hundred years ago and has grown to become a multibillion-dollar business covering 16 markets with over 12,000 employees. Our people serve more than 200,000 medical facilities and work with over 450 clients, including the top 20 pharmaceutical companies in the world.

ZP Therapeutics, a division of Zuellig Pharma, is the commercialisation partner of choice for the healthcare industry with offices in 13 countries across Asia and over 2,500 associates. A catalyst in improving patient journeys and healthcare outcomes through commercial excellence, robust in-market capabilities and strong ethical principles, ZP Therapeutics is a trusted partner for expanding patient access and providing innovations to the healthcare community.

For more information, visit: https://www.zuelligpharma.com/


February 2, 2024
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2min

Sri Lanka’s most-loved healthcare brand, Hemas Hospitals, known for going above and beyond for its patients and the community, recently supported a gifted young autist with treatment for a rare medical condition. A Grade-4 student at R/BC Tamil Maha Vidyalaya faced the challenges of being autistic and having a rare ankle deformity. This condition necessitated surgical intervention, specifically an osteotomy, to realign the affected bones. Resident orthopedic surgeon performed the surgery for the young individual, who is also a gifted savant, having achieved remarkable feats such as winning an award for Best Memory from the Cholan Book of World Records in India.

 



 

However, with the procedure costing upwards of LKR 500,000/- Muralitharam’s family was struggling to gather the necessary funds as a result of their economically disadvantaged rural background. Understanding their struggle and seeing the potential in young Muralitharam, Hemas Hospitals made the decision to provide the necessary treatment free of charge.

The procedure was carried out successfully, with the gifted young savant expected to make a full recovery, regaining the critical mobility he was lacking as a result of his condition. Hemas Hospitals takes this opportunity to wish young Pakiyaraj Muralitharam the very best of luck in his future endeavours, and expects that he will shine against the odds and bring pride to his parents and country.


February 2, 2024
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3min

New Mawanella Medical Centre, which is at the forefront of providing health and wellness services, was honoured as the Best Health and Wellness Service of the Year (Western Medicine) at the Pinnacle Sri Lanka 2023 Awards organised by MUGP International Organisation. The award ceremony was recently held at the Galleface Hotel in Colombo. The Medical Centre’s Founder, Dr. Kamal Dharmawansha has also received the Pride of the Nation Award from the FirstLight organisation. Founded by Dr. Dharmawansha, New Mawanella Medical Centre has been providing western medicine-based treatment and related services for many years. The Medical Centre is located at No. 61, Rambukkana Road, Mawanella. Apart from the outpatient department (OPD), it also runs clinics for patients suffering from non-communicable diseases (NCD) such as hypertension, diabetes and asthma. The Medical Centre also performs minor surgeries and provides necessary treatment for diabetic wounds, cuts, and long-term non-healing wounds.

 


 

In addition to providing medical treatment, New Mawanella Medical Centre provides a range of related services such as nebulisation, counseling services on prevention of NCDs, home-based medical services and issuance of medical certificates. Over the past, it has gained fame not only in the Mawanella area but also in other parts of the country. All treatment and services are provided by a staff with proper training and experience in the field of health care. The Medical Centre, which also received a Pinnacle Sri Lanka award in 2022, also engages in a number of social services, and the free medical clinics conducted in different areas are the main among them. “If not for the unwavering support of our community and the dedication of our dedicated team, we would not have been able to make this achievement possible. The consistent trust placed on us by our customers and this achievement inspires us to continue to strive for excellence in delivering healthcare services.” said Dr. Dharmawansha.

 


February 1, 2024
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3min

In a significant initiative commemorating World Leprosy Day 2024, Hemas Pharmaceuticals, the Anti Leprosy Campaign, Provincial Director of Health Western Province, Regional Director of Health Services Colombo, Gampaha and Kalutara Districts and the MOH Offices in the Western Province joined forces to conduct a wide-reaching awareness campaign. The collaborative effort distributed informative flyers to 50,000 individuals at key high-traffic transportation hubs, including train and bus stations.

 



 

World Leprosy Day, observed annually, serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against leprosy and the importance of fostering awareness within communities. With the recent unforeseen rise in Leprosy in the country, Hemas Pharmaceuticals and the Anti Leprosy Campaign have decided to leverage this day to make a tangible impact on leprosy awareness.

The focal point of this initiative was the distribution of 50,000 informative flyers designed to educate the public on leprosy, its symptoms, and that Leprosy is curable with timely diagnosis and medication. A team of dedicated personnel from the Anti Leprosy Campaign, RDHS Office, MOH Offices, NIHS, CMC and Hemas Pharmaceuticals were stationed at major train and bus stations across the Western Province, ensuring the dissemination of vital information.

Mr. Jude Fernando, Managing Director at Hemas Pharmaceuticals, stated, “Our collaboration with the Anti Leprosy Campaign is a testament to our shared commitment to public health. With this initiative observing World Leprosy Day 2024, we are proud to contribute to spreading awareness of Leprosy, reaching a diverse audience, fostering a better-informed community.”

Dr. Prasad Ranaweera, Director at Anti Leprosy Campaign, added, “World Leprosy Day provides us with a platform to engage with the community and dispel misconceptions surrounding leprosy. This awareness campaign is one such initiative of our continuous efforts in grappling with the Leprosy situation in the country. We extend our gratitude to our health authority colleagues and Hemas Pharmaceuticals for partnering with us on this project.”

Hemas Pharmaceuticals along with the Anti Leprosy Campaign invite the community to join them in raising awareness and contributing to the national effort to eliminate the disease in the country.

As the leading pharmaceutical distributor in Sri Lanka, Hemas Pharmaceuticals, a subsidiary of Hemas Holdings PLC, stands at the forefront of commitment to public health. Renowned for its streamlined and modernized operations, Hemas Pharmaceuticals has become a symbol of excellence in the nation’s pharmaceutical industry.


January 8, 2024
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2min

The Phoenix Homeopathic Private Hospital was recently inaugurated under the patronage of the Stete Minister of Indigenous Medicine Mr. Sisira Jayakodi. Homeopathic practitioner, Dr. P.M. Chatura Hatharasinghe took the initiative to launch this private hospital, which provides treatment under the world-recognised homeopathic medical field. Having completed a degree in homeopathic medicine from the National Institute of Homeopathy in Calcutta, India, with a scholarship received from the Ministry of Indigenous Medicine, Dr. Hatharasinghe has been working in the country as a government-registered homeopathic practitioner for more than four years.

 



 

Phoenix Hospital can be considered as the first homeopathic private hospital built in Sri Lanka fully equipped with modern facilities. Patients visiting it near Eldeniya Church in Kadawatha can receive homeopathic medical treatment as well as psychological treatment and psychiatric consultation services related to homeopathic medicine. Phoenix Hospital has a qualified and experienced medical and nursing staff to treat any medical condition with homeopathic medicine. Homeopathic Practitioner Dr. Nayanaka De Alwis has also joined Phoenix Hospitals to treat patients. Dr. Hatharasinghe, who has gained significant reputation by treating both local and foreign patients, spoke during the event and said: “Nowadays, many patients around the world have turned to homeopathic medicine and have been cured. Especially in Sri Lanka, many people have great faith in homeopathic medicine. Phoenix Hospital is capable of promoting homeopathic medicine in Sri Lanka as well as providing quick recovery to patients. I am especially thankful to the State Minister of Indigenous Medicine Sisira Jayakodi, for his support in making this task a success.”

 


January 5, 2024
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5min

First phase of the supplementary vaccination drive to kickstart on January 6, via over 1600 clinics across 9 districts

 Thursday, 4th January 2024, Colombo – UNICEF, together with WHO, will support the Ministry of Health in implementing a supplementary measles immunization activity (SIA) in Sri Lanka aimed at controlling the ongoing measles outbreak, midst over 700 measles cases reported in the country since May 2023.

 



 

The SIA will be launched in two phases; the first phase will commence on 6 January, targeting 6-9-month-olds in nine identified districts with a high population density, where measles cases were reported including Colombo, Gampaha, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Kandy, Jaffna, Kurunegala and Kalmunai. The second phase will be initiated on January 20 and extended to other age groups across the country.

Speaking at a press briefing held in Colombo recently to announce the launch of the supplementary immunization activity, UNICEF Representative in Sri Lanka, Christian Skoog said, “UNICEF, as well as WHO, has been closely associated partners with the Ministry of Health for many years in the implementation of the national immunization programme, which is a success story in Sri Lanka.  However, even with a high immunization coverage, measles outbreaks can occur among unvaccinated children, especially when there are outbreaks in the region. While the numbers are small with the recent measles outbreak, it is important to take it seriously and that is what the Ministry of Health is doing, in taking appropriate steps to control it.”

He also added the assistance extended by UNICEF during COVID-19 pandemic in 2020-2021 to maintain the quality of vaccines by addressing the gaps in the cold chain equipment system, will undoubtedly support in implementing this effective supplementary immunization activity.

Meanwhile, Secretary to the Ministry of Health (MoH), Dr. Palitha Mahipala expressed confidence in the success of the vaccination drive, stating, “There is no other country in the world which has reached over 99% immunization coverage. I can confidently state without any hesitation that Sri Lanka is the only country which reached a 99.9% immunization coverage. So, I am optimistic that with this supplementary immunization activity, the measles cases reported will be reduced.”

The measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine was introduced into Sri Lanka’s immunization program in 1984. In 2001, a second dose of the vaccine was introduced to improve population level immunity and in 2019, the WHO declared Sri Lanka as a country free of Measles. However, a significant drop in global immunization coverage from 2020 to 2022 impacted many countries in the region, which has led to a rise in measles cases once again, including in Sri Lanka.

Dr. Alaka Singh, WHO Representative to Sri Lanka who also spoke at the presser said, “The cases reported so far have been mild, and no deaths have been reported. However, measles can be a major childhood disease, which can and must be prevented. Accordingly, MoH has embarked on a rapid supplementary immunization activity in two phases through the strong primary healthcare system. We, as WHO, reiterate our full support for this program and overall recovery in Sri Lanka going forward.”

Other experts in attendance at the media briefing included Dr. Asela Gunawardena, Director General of Health Services, Ministry of Health; Dr. Vinod Kumar Bura, Coordinator, Immunization and Vaccine Development, Department of Communicable diseases, WHO South-East Asia Regional Office; the Chief Epidemiologist; Director, Health Promotion Bureau as well as other consultants and specialists from MoH.

UNICEF and MoH, through this latest SIA are committed to combating any possible measles outbreaks in Sri Lanka. While measles is highly infectious, past vaccination initiatives have shown success in controlling outbreaks when high coverage is achieved. Stakeholders noted that strategic public awareness and community engagement will be critical in conveying the urgency of vaccinations and ensuring the campaign’s success.

 


January 3, 2024
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3min

Hayleys Lifesciences (Pvt) Ltd, a leading supplier of cutting-edge analytical, surgical, and radiology equipment and consumables in the country has introduced the state-of-the-art Dornier Medilas H140 to improve access to urological stone treatment. This technology addresses a pressing societal need in a nation with a high prevalence of kidney patients and a scarcity of advanced treatment facilities.

 



 

The Medilas H140, developed by Dornier MedTech, is a cutting-edge Holmium: YAG Laser that combines precision and safety in treating kidney stone patients, setting a new standard for urological stone treatments in Sri Lanka. One of the highest-powered Holmium: YAG Lasers in the market today, the machine offers safer and faster stone fragmentation by combining the prowess of a laser and morcellator in a single device.

The Dornier Medilas H140 is available at the Teaching Hospital in Anuradhapura and the Teaching Hospital in Kaluthara.

“Our mission is to advance healthcare excellence in our nation. The Medilas H140 significantly enhances patients’ access to urological stone treatments in Sri Lanka, addressing a pressing societal need. The technology provides patients with precise, safe, and minimally invasive alternatives to the conventional shockwave therapy,” said Hayleys Lifesciences Deputy Managing Director, Athula Wijayananda.

In the past, shockwave therapy was administered externally, and its effectiveness depended on the power of the shockwave applied. However, this method often led to unpredictable outcomes as the repeated use of shockwaves could harm patients’ kidneys over time. The Medilas H140 laser treatment significantly reduces the possibility and risk of post-operative complications.

Laser treatment, particularly the PCNL (Percutaneous Nephro Lithotripsy) approach, represents a significant leap forward in urological stone treatments. This minimally invasive procedure involves a 2 to 4-mm incision, allowing for a nephroscope to access and observe the stone. A laser, guided by advanced technology is employed to remove the stone efficiently and safely.

Dornier MedTech is renowned for its pioneering technology and revolutionary therapies in the field of urology. The Medilas H140 offers numerous advantages, including power flexibility, compatibility with nearly all 1-phase power supplies, efficient irrigation fluid management, and a comprehensive fibre portfolio that ensures high-quality laser fibres for diverse patient cases. It also boasts a smart foot switch with a three-pedal design for easy switching between treatment modes, enhancing the user experience in urological stone treatments.



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