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Health care industry

Matsushita Develops Cordless Laser Scalpel for Dentists

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. has made a significant innovation in dental surgery by developing the world's first cordless laser scalpel. The new device, designed to increase maneuverability and hygiene in dental procedures, aims to challenge industry leader Yoshida Dental Trade Distribution Co.'s dominance in the market. By mounting a rechargeable nickel-hydrogen battery within the device, Matsushita has successfully redesigned the laser tube, making it 30 per cent smaller than traditional laser scalpels. This breakthrough technology is set to make a significant impact on the dental industry.

Key Takeaways:

  • Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. has developed the world's first cordless laser scalpel for dentists, allowing for increased maneuverability and hygiene.
  • The new device features a redesigned laser tube that is 30 per cent smaller than conventional laser scalpels.
  • The cordless laser scalpel uses carbon dioxide as the lasing material, which is widely used in dental surgery due to its ability to cut while stopping bleeding.
  • The suggested retail price of the new device is 4.35 million yen (US$37,455), around 10 per cent more than conventional laser scalpels.
  • Matsushita plans to market the new device through its health care unit.
  • The device aims to challenge industry leader Yoshida Dental Trade Distribution Co.'s more than 30 per cent market share.
  • Matsushita used a rechargeable nickel-hydrogen battery to make the device cordless, increasing its portability and reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
  • The company's health care unit will be responsible for marketing the device, which is expected to be a significant innovation in the dental industry.

Statistics:

  • 30 per cent: The percentage of the market share held by industry leader Yoshida Dental Trade Distribution Co.
  • 4.35 million: The suggested retail price of the new cordless laser scalpel in Japanese yen.
  • US$37,455: The equivalent price of the cordless laser scalpel in US dollars.
  • 10 per cent: The price increase of the cordless laser scalpel compared to conventional laser scalpels.
  • 30 per cent: The reduction in size of the laser tube in the new cordless laser scalpel.

Sources:

  • Asia Pulse - "Matsushita Develops Cordless Laser Scalpel" (Jan 5)
  • Nikkei - "Matsushita Cordless Laser Scalpel for Dentists" (date not specified)

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