Masterclass: Advanced GI Endoscopic Imaging (Live/Virtual) | December 2025-Hurdles in Imaging Technology

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Video Summary

Ken discusses significant hurdles in developing innovative imaging devices, especially in gastroenterology. He outlines the FDA approval process, which varies by device risk and novelty—from simpler 510(k) clearances for incremental innovations to stringent premarket approvals (PMA) for high-risk devices like an AI-driven humanoid colonoscopist. Such advanced devices require extensive, costly clinical trials costing tens of millions and several years. Beyond FDA approval, securing reimbursement through CPT and RUC processes is complex; reimbursement rates often don't reflect new technology value, limiting adoption. Post-marketing surveillance, legal liability, and physician training add further challenges. Ken also highlights the timing of selling such technologies to big companies, which prefer later stages when regulatory risks are lower and valuations higher. Overall, device development demands navigating regulatory, financial, and market hurdles, especially for novel, high-risk innovations requiring substantial investment and demonstrating clear clinical benefits to succeed.

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Ken Wang

Keywords

FDA approval process

innovative imaging devices

gastroenterology technology

clinical trials cost

reimbursement challenges

regulatory hurdles