A new connectivity package for EKF’s Quo-Test and Quo-Lab HbA1c analysers enables secure bi-directional communication between these POC analysers and a multitude of central data management systems. Using the industry recognized POCT1-A2 communication protocol, EKF’s connectivity solution unlocks a host of new features aimed at improving security and quality control (QC) for diabetic HbA1c testing. The new connectivity package includes a proprietary connector interface box, cables and a software upgrade. This enables EKF’s HbA1c analysers to automatically transmit patient data to the majority of Lab Information Management Systems (LIMS) or Hospital Information Systems (HIS). Traceability and results recall speed are improved by use of patient ID and increased demographic data (such as family name and date of birth). These can now be recorded through either selecting from a pre-approved list or via the barcode scanner and keyboard. Also ensuring the integrity of results generated at the POC, security and QC are enhanced on Quo-Lab and Quo-Test through user ID and QC lockout functions which are included in the connectivity package. By restricting access to trained users only, the lockout functions minimize the chances of user error and adhere to security protocols in many institutions. Furthermore, unauthorized users will be prevented from accessing patient information. Multiple user-defined QC lockout options are also available to POCT coordinators in order to enforce regular testing of QC materials and ensure compliance. In addition to ensuring the reliability of results, the new conectivity package also allows the clinician to add commentary to any test result, further enhancing the monitoring and management of diabetes in a point-of-care setting.
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Siemens has refined its Syngo Dynamics cardiovascular information system (CVIS) to not only help diagnose cardiovascular diseases but also to reduce the administrative load on medical staff and provide the best possible support in outcome-focused management decisions. The main focuses for improvement are on reading and reporting capabilities as well as interoperability and integration into other systems, such as the electronic health record (EHR) system. Data exchange between disparate systems makes improved efficiency and care outcomes possible. This interoperability gives various departments within a hospital
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Sony has launched the industry’s first medical monitors that combine 4K and 3D imaging technologies, delivering high brightness, enhanced resolution and increased depth of field for a range of medical applications. The new surgical monitors, LMD-X550MT (55′) and LMD-X310MT (31′) are designed to be used with 4K or 3D endoscopes and surgical microscopes in operating rooms. They are also suitable for training and education purposes. Recognizing that there is a demand for 4K and next generation 3D endoscopes, the company has produced equipment that reflects these needs. As such, both of the monitors display 2D and 3D content in stunning 4K or HD resolution. The new 4K 3D monitors have a slim chassis and thin bezel, and also offer many of the features and technology that are featured in Sony’s award-winning medical monitor lineup. The use of 4K offers users image quality that is much more defined than high-definition images, and the use of 3D visualization is key to providing surgeons with improved accuracy, helping them to reduce procedure times while delivering realistic depth perception.
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Based on the key requirements expressed by all its main customer groups in radiology, Siemens Healthineers has developed an entirely new platform for computed tomography. It responds to the needs of diverse users and in doing so improves their competitive position. The Somatom go. platform with the Somatom go.Now and Somatom go.Up scanners offers automated and standardized workflows and also gives radiology providers the option of using a highly costefficient single-room concept for the first time. Based on the Somatom go. platform the company offers two scanner variants: the 32-slice Somatom go.Now is particularly suited to radiology providers who want to establish a new CT department. Somatom go.Up is equipped with a wider detector providing up to 64 slices. Among other benefits, it offers faster scanning, which is especially important for lung imaging – e.g., to screen for cancer. This model is therefore suited to radiologists who want to expand an existing portfolio. The Somatom go. platform can be controlled via a tablet, which paves the way for an entirely new, mobile workflow. The standardized work steps are designed so that users can run the scan with just a few inputs. Automated postprocessing makes it even easier to operate the scanners. This means that even staff with a lower level of training can carry out the examinations, for instance in emergencies during a night shift . The standardization also gives radiologists additional assurance with regard to the diagnostic quality of the images. Since the scanners can be controlled via a tablet, radiographers can stay with patients while preparing the scan, which makes the examination experience more pleasant for patients, especially for children. The scanners can be controlled on the move while all computer hardware that was up to now located in the control room has been integrated into the gantry of the scanner. This way, the institutions can benefit from a flexible room concept, a feature that was simply not possible with previous systems. Instead of requiring two or three rooms for the scanner, the control unit, and possibly additional technology, Somatom go. scanners can – if desired – be installed in a single room with a minimum size requirement. With this setup, a shielded niche is enough to protect the radiology staff . This room concept drastically reduces the installation costs and thus makes the Somatom go. platform especially attractive for deployment in emerging markets. A brand new detector based on the already proven Stellar technology and spectral tin filters, which were previously only available on the company’s high-end scanners, allow users to perform lung imaging at extremely low radiation doses. When it comes to vascular imaging, High Power 80 – another feature from the premium segment – keeps tube voltages extremely low, which helps to reduce dose and minimize iodine contrast.
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DETECTO’s new Rescue and Whisper series medical carts come in multiple colour options (red, blue, yellow, and white) with five or six drawers and 360-degree rotation for tight corners. The Whisper series offers unique features, including drawer facades that quickly snap off and back on and completely-sealed drawer rails without any exposed seams for hygienic wipedown cleaning. As the name implies, the Whisper series offers whisper-quiet rolling convenience with its insulated interior walls. The soft-close drawers glide shut for superior convenience. The carts’balanced design will not topple over when full drawers are extended. DETECTO’s carts are manufactured from quality aluminum cart body construction that is powdercoat painted for durability with easy-toclean ABS countertops. The keyed or EMG breakaway central lock secures all drawers at the same time for added convenience. The carts’5-inch-diameter wheels feature two parking locks and one steering lock. ABS bumpers protect all four corners of the medical carts. The push handle offers a user-friendly design. Multiple optional accessories are available for customization. It is also possible to purchase a fullyloaded cart pre-stocked with typical accessories needed for ER or anesthesiology departments.
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