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BB5-G1 is a murine monoclonal antibody with proven affinity for human parathyroid tissue. The authors conjugated BB5-G1 to cibacron blue, a water-soluble dye, in an attempt to enhance intraoperative parathyroid visualization. Athymic nude mice possessing intramuscularly implanted human parathyroid tissue were infused with the conjugate, then surgically explored. Intraoperative findings were video-captured, then analyzed by three independent observers and by computer, generating subjective and objective data quantifying parathyroid visualization. Parathyroid tissue implants were stained and were easily visualized. The implants in the test mice displayed higher computer-generated color intensity ratings (mean, 10.25 units) compared to control mice (mean, 6.10 units) (p<0.5). Histologic sections confirmed the presence of dye and antibody within parathyroid tissue. This represents the first study to use such a conjugate to selectively enhance parathyroid visualization.

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Program Description: The practice of medicine is rapidly transforming in response to healthcare reform and cost reduction efforts. ACOs, first introduced into the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in 2009, are a payment and care delivery model that tie reimbursements to performance and cost reduction for a defined patient population. The physician must understand the laws and economics that affect the delivery of healthcare. Participants will gain an understanding of 1) Healthcare laws 2) ACOs, with a focus on outcomes, safety, and satisfaction while decreasing costs, negotiation tactics, and methods of awarding any shared savings. 3) Socioeconomic factors and concerns regarding emerging payment paradigms. Educational Objectives: 1) Evaluate the current and future impact of Federal Healthcare Regulations upon otolaryngologic practice. 2) Comprehend physician and hospital organized ACOs, their objectives and considerations that will affect your role within that structure. 3) Recognize socioeconomic concerns related to transitioning from a fee for service model into ACOs and other future payment paradigms and what the Board of Governors is doing on behalf of our members.