Studies show that on average one in four people suffer from atrial fibrillation, the most widespread form of cardiac arrhythmia, at some stage during their lives. Electrophysiological studies and interventions can be used to examine and treat a large number of patients. This involves ablating tiny points in the myocardial tissue using an ablation catheter in order to return the heart to its correct rhythm. Depending on the level of complexity, this type of procedure can take two to three hours. Each misrouting of the electrical impulses that trigger cardiac arrhythmia, which is measured in milliseconds, must first be located and mapped using electrophysiology catheters. It is only at that point that an individual treatment plan tailored to the patients’needs can be developed. This can now be achieved with radiation doses that are up to 85% below usual values, benefiting both patients and staff alike.
Another procedure where dose reduction is crucial is percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), in which the cardiologist has to position a stent with millimeter precision despite cardiac movement. Using Artis Q.zen, the cardiologist is supported by the advanced guidance of Clearstent Live, which allows stent enhancement to take place in real time. The software eliminates cardiac movement, allowing cardiologists to verify stent positioning relative to the cardiac anatomy or to previously deployed stents. The enhanced images are displayed side-by-side with the current live-image without any noticeable lag while the operator can still move the balloon-mounted stent. The significantly better visualization of the stent and vessel section eliminates the need for additional images to decide whether the stent has been fully expanded.
The Artis Q.zen angiography system now comes with two new advances making it possible to reduce the radiation dose while maintaining and improving the quality
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The BRAHMS CTproAVP KRYPTOR (LIA also available) is a unique assay for the reliable determination of the very unstable vasopressin by the measurement of the stable C-terminal part of the prohormone of vasopressin (CT-proAVP). CT-proAVP shows the same kinetics as vasopressin, is extremely stable and therefore easy to measure. As CT-proAVP is released into the circulation in equimolar amounts, it is an equivalent for vasopressin in all clinical indications where vasopressin is indicated, such as water balance testing. Particularly due to its higher sensitivity and easier handling compared to currently available vasopressin assays
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Cobia users can now benefit from the advantages offered by the Ocean 2014 software
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A new approach has been used in the development of the bone densitometry system, EggQus. It has been created using the design concept of an ‘eggshell’. The result is a strong, lightweight, easy to handle unit that guarantees maximum portability. EggQus is light, compact and versatile compared to conventional ultrasound bone densitometry systems. The large integrated handle facilitates inhospital rounds and house visits. The system is powered by rechargeable batteries enhancing its portability. Continuous and convenient use can be sustained using the AC adapter accessory. The motor-controlled transducer unit moves automatically, minimizing manipulation by the operator. The short measurement time of approximately three seconds is convenient for elderly examinees and for screening that requires rapid handling.
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The AsCARD MrCoral is a digital ECG appliance supported by CardioTEKA software  which serves for data processing and archiving of ECG waveforms in the full range of 12 leads. The appliance is connected via USB to a user’s PC or notebook. With its compact size and light weight it is convenient to use, especially during home visits. At the same time the on-line preview function allows for ongoing monitoring of the patient’s heart. The examination result is generated in pdf or KTeka format. The selected ECG records are printed on an external printer.

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