New tech not always the best medicine

Read this excellent commentary by Craig Turner, who is a surgeon.
http://www.todayonline.com/Print/Commentary/EDC110324-0000011/New-tech-not-always-the-best-medicine

Quotes:
The decision to opt for medical care that relies on the most costly technology is often based on blind faith that newer, elaborate and expensive must be better.

We seem to be promoting new technology even in the absence of data. Exciting cutting-edge treatments are marketed with the singular effect of peddling hope to patients when they are at their most vulnerable.

If a surgeon recommends an older, less expensive technology, many patients will shop for a surgeon willing to use the newest and costliest devices - even if the added benefits are unproven and the risks may be greater.