tomas1 wrote:I've actually thought about how much all the implant parts actually cost. I'd bet lots of money that they don't cost more than $100, total.
It's the same way with the vacuum pumps and lots of other plastic things we buy.
Look at a sun visor clip on my truck? It sells for around $15 and probably costs $.25 to make.
I don't think it's the material that wears out as much as the design, and manufacturing of them.
And the value of all the components of a human body is less than $5.00 U.S.
Of course, you are correct that there is a lot of excess in all the medical devices and drugs we have, so your point is well taken. But how do you propose we separate the dross from the gold?
What REALLY bugs me is that there seems to be a substantial "break-in" period before the implant works smoothly and reliably. I think the "rough edges" (primarily inside the pump mechanism it appears) should be smoothed off BEFORE implant surgery. There is no excuse for requiring the patient in those first tender weeks to work out the kinks when they could be handled before the surgery.
Lost Sheep
