Product Review: Canon Medical Aquilion Prime SP CT System | TechSci Research

With a capability to generate 160 unique slices per rotation, Aquilion Prime SP CT system is designed to increase throughput and reduce exam time. The highly efficient and AI-based CT scan system can save about 30-40% of diagnostic time of physicians and create a safe hospital environment leveraging rapid decontamination system.

The sudden outbreak of coronavirus led to an increased demand for imaging solutions to detect abnormalities in the chest among patients with a high clinical suspicion of infection. Computed Tomography (CT) scan is being adapted as the first-line tool for diagnosing COVID-19 infection as it produces highly accurate and reliable results. But the rapidly growing demand for CT-scan procedure owing to the rising incidences of coronavirus cases is putting a diagnostic burden on radiologists. During a time of crisis, imaging solutions leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) can effectively help to improve the diagnostic accuracy of the physicians as well as reduce their workload. The AI system can automatically examine CT images and rapidly detect COVID-19 infection by analyzing abnormalities in the lungs caused by COVID-19 pneumonia. Thus, the highly efficient AI-based CT scan devices can save about 30-40% of the detection time of the physicians and detect each stage of disease detection and evolution.

Recently, Canon debuted Aquilion Prime SP CT system created for safely imaging patients suspected of being infected with viral infectious diseases. During the epidemic crisis when diagnostic testing has become instrumental for the early treatment of COVID-19 infected patients, the introduction of the Canon CT solution can prove to be a gamechanger for overly burdened radiology departments in the healthcare environment. With the capability to generate 160 unique slices per rotation with 0.35-second scanning, the Aquilion CT solution is designed to increase throughput and reduce examination time for compromised patients. The device weighs around 660 pounds and consists of a 78 cm gantry that makes the device suitable for clinical and emergency settings. Since the CT system is available in modular or mobile setup, it can be isolated to reduce the risks for facility staff and patients, and thus creates a safe hospital environment.

Rapid Decontamination System

The advanced imaging modality is a deployable CT with a rapid decontamination solution, which makes it ideal for utilization by hospitals and institutions in the pandemic. The decontamination system incorporates multiple automated UV-C emitters that destroy pathogens and works effectively against different infectious diseases. Thus, the device allows radiologists to perform safe and quick imaging of the suspected patients while reducing the high degree of risk of contamination. The decontamination system takes a few minutes to completely disinfect the room and enhance the workflow of clinicians.

All-in-one Diagnostic Imaging Solution

The high-end CT system features Toshiba's proprietary imaging technology that provides physicians the flexibility to find the right balance to produce excellent image quality while administering low dose for reducing radiation exposure. Built with premium technology, Aquilion Prime SP enables the clinical facility to screen all patients from pediatric to bariatric even in the most challenging cases, which makes it a fast and efficient solution to streamline workflow in healthcare settings. The advanced Canon solution expands clinical capabilities by automating complex examination and delivering high-quality data, which facilitates radiologists to keep pace with their worklist. Within one breath-hold and contrast injection, multiple anatomical areas can be diagnosed, which enables a confident diagnosis.

Advanced intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE)

Introducing Advanced intelligent Clear-IQ Engine (AiCE) across imaging modalities, Canon Medical Systems is expanding the power of AI to routine imaging. AiCE is an innovative deep learning reconstruction (DLR) technology that has been trained using vast amounts of high-quality image data to produce sharp, clear, and contrast images at low doses. Securing the high computational power of Deep Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN), AiCE technology exhibits high spatial resolution and differentiates signal from noise. Thus, the world's first deep learning reconstruction for CT is considered a ground-breaking advancement in the field of imaging solutions and is set to bring forth a new era of AI-assisted medicine. Some of the features of AiCE deep learning reconstruction include improved low-contrast detectability, dose-neutral industry-leading ultra-high-resolution images, fast reconstruction, better differentiation between signal and noise in low-quality images, and easy workflow.

Patient-Centric Design

The Aquilion Prime SP enhances the patient care experience with its patient-centric design. The CT scan system has a flexible table height and 600 pounds capacity couch to accommodate patients of all age groups and the physically challenged. The 70 cm extended field of view allows one to see more of the anatomy. The RT flat tabletop scan in the same position for comfort and ease of the patients and the respiratory gating delivers robust flexibility in the management of the motion. The tech-assist lateral table movement improves flexibility and ease of use, allowing the clinicians to move the table 8.4 cm from side to side. The Canon's propriety SUREPosition* technology puts patients at ease and accurately centers them by scan plan GUI. The technology also allows clinicians to perform iso-center scanning for the best IQ and thus eliminates the need for re-scanning patients in time-critical situations.

Scalable Technology

The compact design and small footprint of Aquilion Prime SP allow easy installation in tight rooms as it requires an installation space of just 14.8 m2. Thus, the device can help hospitals to maximize layouts and workspace and reduce the cost of ownership and patient care. Canon's Medical Aquilion Prime SP is the perfect system that matches the needs of today offering a range of 80 to 160 slices. With a fast reconstruction speed of up to 70 images/second, the CT scan solution boosts workflow and improves the productivity of clinicians.

Recent Advancements in Computed Tomography Technology

qER CT Scan

qER CT scan solution developed by Qure.ai, an imaging artificial intelligence provider is an FDA-approved imaging solution to detect cranial fractures, midline shift, intracranial bleeds, and other critical abnormalities found on routine head CT scans. The comprehensive and high-quality imaging AI tool assists clinicians to produce effective outcomes by providing accurate image interpretation. Leveraging AI for accurately critical conditions, the medical device helps to reduce examination time and improve care for patients.

IntelliSpace Portal Advanced Visualization

Philips's IntelliSpace Portal Advanced Visualization aims to improve workflow leveraging artificial intelligence. The suite enables professional radiologists and administrators to provide better outcomes with less burden. With the growing demand for imaging and shortage of specialists, the new Philips offering increases efficiency and cut turnaround time by eliminating the need for manually entering patient content to prepare final reports. AI tools work effectively to detect coronavirus lesions, which could be beneficial to mitigate staff shortage and prevent the need for rescanning.

Fujifilm FCT Embrace CT System

Powered by Analogic technology, Fujifilm FCT is the world's first 85-cm wide-bore computed tomography unit with 64-and 128-slice configuration optimized for both oncology and radiology applications. The CT system provides exceptional imaging capabilities and improves accuracy. The 85-cm bore matches the rotational arc of the linear accelerator and meets the oncology radiation demands without hindering the image quality.

Conclusion

With Canon Aquilion Prime SP, the physicians can detect, stage, and track tumours for every routine multi-phased oncology imaging, which could assist in early detection, intervention, and treatment. The device is a comprehensive solution to fulfill all clinical demands and ensure comfortable patient experience. Providing robust imaging applications and exceptional diagnostic precision, Canon Aquilion Prime SP enhances diagnostic performance, lowers costs, and increases productivity. Looking forward to the future of CT, AI-assisted systems would become an ideal alternative as they can overcome limitations associated with conventional CT scan system such as high exposure to radiation.

According to TechSci research report on "Global CT Scanners Market By Slice (8-slice, 16-slice, 32-slice, 64-slice, 128-slice & above), By Modality (Fixed v/s Mobile), By Device Architecture (O-arm v/s C-arm), By Application (Cardiology, Oncology, Neurology, Others), By End Users (Hospitals, Diagnostic Centers, Others), By Region, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2026", global CT scanners market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.67% during the forecast period. The growth can be attributed to the rising incidences of cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases, cancer, etc. as well as high demand for the post-interventional medical procedures.

According to another TechSci research report on "Global Diagnostic Imaging Market By Product Type ( Architecture (Open/Closed), By Field Strength (High and Very-High Field MRI Systems), By Systems (Ultrasound Systems, Nuclear Imaging Systems, X-Ray Imaging Systems, CT Scanner, MRI System, Mammography System, Fluoroscopy), By Portability (Stationary, Portability), By Application (OB/Gyn, Orthopaedic, Musculosekeletal, Neuro &Spine, General Imaging, Cardio &Thoracic, Breast health, Others), By End Users (Hospitals, Diagnostic Imaging Centers, Others), By Region, Forecast & Opportunities, 2016-2026F", the global diagnostic imaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.72% during the forecast period owing to factors such as rising geriatric population as well as introduction of novel technologies in medical sciences. Additionally, government is also expanding healthcare ecosystems to accommodate the medical needs of rising population.

Are BlueStar Range of Commercial Refrigerators ideal for Storing Vaccines? | TechSci Research

The COVID-19 pandemic is unlikely to end the COVID-19 vaccines are rolled out across the globe to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. Regulators in different countries have already authorised effective COVID-19 vaccines for human use, but their distribution to administration facilities has become a global challenge due to logistics challenges for universal access to vaccines. Generally, vaccines require ultra-cold chains as they have short shelf-lives once they are removed from storage, so the healthcare providers require specially designed biomedical refrigerators and freezers that maintain the efficacy of vaccines and other medical equipment. Inadequate storage and handling can make the vaccine useless and make one susceptible to contagious diseases. Understanding the importance of cold chain storage capacities, government bodies are working with key partners to solve the technical and logistical issue of vaccine storage as a part of worldwide immunization program.

Recently, Blue Star Limited launched a new range commercial refrigeration products and solutions for vaccine storage and transportation of vaccines to remote corners of India since they maintain desired ultra-low temperatures even while in transit. The specifically designed and temperature-controlled refrigerators and transporters introduced by the air conditioning and commercial refrigeration major, is a great move towards building a robust ecosystem for vaccine distribution in India.

What are biomedical refrigerator and freezer?

Biomedical refrigerators and freezers are designed specifically for the storage of biologic material. Unlike conventional refrigerators, medical-grade or biomedical refrigerators and freezers have a microprocessor-based system that accurately measures and maintains temperatures to maintain the potency of material stored. The biomedical refrigerators and freezers use digital sensors such as thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors, thermistors, and fast temperature recovery apparatuses to monitor the interior temperature and respond to out-of-range temperature readings.

Some medical-grade refrigerators and freezers are equipped with alarms that go off when the temperature goes out of pre-set temperature range and thermometers connected to glycol-encased probes to prevent possible temperature leaks.

Benefits of biomedical refrigerators

·         Ensure Reliable Cold-Chain Storage

According to CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization, every year healthcare clinics lose USD20 million due to cold-chain failures and put public life in danger. The biomedical refrigerators and freezers maintain a reliable cold chain that protect vaccines, blood transfusion, biologics, and extend the shelf-life of living organisms. Maintaining a tighter and more consistent temperature range, the compressors present in biomedical refrigerators and freezers reach target temperature faster and maintain them. Also, the medical-grade units also seal tighter and better than conventional household refrigerators.  

·         Provide Accurate Temperature Monitoring

Temperature excursions can lead to inappropriate conditions for the vaccine storage and require immediate action. The temperature reading outside of the biomedical refrigerator and freezers prevent any kind of an excursion event and facilitates tracking of internal temperature without opening the door of the appliance. The medical-grade refrigerators come with built-in digital data loggers (DDL), that provide accurate storage unit temperature information.

·         Promote better Air Flow

Biomedical refrigerators and freezers are designed to have a superior airflow as they rely on powerful and fan-forced air circulation systems with air-cooling vents. The internal shelving with perforated ventilation holes also facilitates efficient air circulation and ensure uniform temperatures. However, healthcare providers must avoid overcrowding, keeping the appliance only 30% full and ensure to place the units between the floor, ceilings, and any walls.

·         Prevents Unauthorized Staff Access

Some purpose-built biomedical refrigerators and freezers embed digital locks to restrict access to only authorized staff members. The medical-grade units may also include decals to label equipment for its intended use and prevent mixed storage to maintain potency of vaccines and other biologics.

·         Protects Biological Products from Temperature Excursions

Biomedical refrigerators have backup battery power sources that prevent damage to vaccines during power failures as they are ideal alternatives to generators. In case of temperature excursion, the units keep the doors closed to maintain the internal temperature.

BlueStar Commercial Range of Biomedical Refrigerators

Ice Lined Refrigerator

The Blue Star Ice Lined refrigerator is enabled with PUF insulation to ensure complete care and protection of vaccines maintaining a consistent temperature range of +2°C to +8°C. The refrigerator can be deployed for epidemic prevention services, clinics, research institute, blood banks, hospitals, and other PHC centres.

Salient features

·         110mm high density PUF insulation ensures long holdover time of 20 hours

·         Efficient performances in climates with ambient temperatures from 10◦C to 43◦C

·         Built-in audio and visual alarms for high/low temperature, sensor failure and door open alarm

·         State-of-the-art compressor for fast refrigeration and low noise

·         Door handles and universal caster wheels for facilitating the device handling, transportation, and placement

·         Eco-friendly refrigerant

·         Battery backup for digital temperature display

·         Child lock to prevent unauthorised settings

·         High sensitivity temperature sensors

Vaccine Transporter

For universal access to vaccines in its optimum form throughout its journey, Blue Star has introduced Vaccine transporter, small capacity portable machine essential for establishing uninterrupted cold chain to transport vaccines. The Blue Star vaccine transporters are built with PUF based double walls to maintain optimum insulation and complete protection of the vaccine. Vaccine transporters supports an ideal temperature range of 2◦C to 8◦C for vaccine storage thus, they ensure potency of vaccine and other biological materials.

Salient Features

·         Sturdy, lightweight, and corrosion-free units

·         Provide accurate temperature control in range of -20℃ to 10℃

·         Fast freezing mode for enhanced cooling

·         Easy to clean at regular intervals

·         Digital temperature control

·         Enable mobility by gear wheel and pull rod (ALG50)

·         Six hours holding time

·         Eco-friendly refrigerant

·         Works on 12V battery charger of any 4-wheeler during transit

·         Anti-shake design prevents any accidents

·         High-quality cabinet material to protect against deformation

Medical Freezer

-86℃ Ultra Low Temperature Freezer (Single Door)

The ultra-low temperature freezer is used for storing and maintaining biologics used in scientific experiments and medical practices. The device consists of 4 castors for easy mobility and the front opening lockable door comes with a handle for easy accessibility. The vacuum release port and optional additions in the medical-grade freezer include char recorder, backup system, storage racks and remote alarm system. Equipped with audio and video alarms such as high and low temperature alarm, power failure alarm, low battery alarm, door open alarm, filter blocking alarm, and system failure alarm, the Blue Star Ultra Low Temperature Freezer prevents temperature excursion to prevent potency of vaccines.

Salient Features

·         Microprocessor controller for precise temperature

·         Stainless steel interior

·         Lockable door with vacuum release port

·         Heavy duty castors for ease of mobility

·         Two-times foaming technology

·         155mm foaming insulation with VIP+

·         Patented technology for CFC-free mixture refrigerant

·         Keyboard lock and password protected configuration page

·         Temperature printer to record 7 days of data with 72 hours of battery backup

-40°C Upright Medical Freezer

·         Microprocessor controller for precision temperature

·         Audio and visual alarm systems

·         Password protection configuration page

·         Safety door lock

·         Heavy duty castors

·         Drawers for easy storage of biologics

·         Eco-friendly refrigerant

-25°C Upright Medical Freezer

·         Microprocessor controller for precise temperature

·         Audio and video alarm system

·         ABS plastic for inner cabinet

·         Painted steel for external body

·         Safety door lock

·         Heavy duty castor

·         Drawers for easy storage

·         Eco-friendly refrigerant

2°C TO 8°C Pharmacy Refrigerators

·         Microprocessor controller for precise temperature

·         Security control alarm systems

·         Three different alarm systems: buzzer, light flash, and remote alarm

·         Multi-protection function

·         Time delayed power-on

·         Rust-free ABS plastic for enhanced hygiene

·         LED lighting

·         Glass door for easy visibility

·         Safety door lock

·         Multi-layers movable shelves

2°C TO 10°C Medical Refrigerators (Stainless Steel Finish)

·         Microprocessor Controller for precise temperature control

·         Combination of two sensors

·         Auto defrost mechanism

·         Audio and visual alarm systems

·         Safety door lock

·         Stainless steel exterior and interior

·         LED lighting

·         Glass door for clear content visibility

·         Double glass with heater to prevent leaks

·         Multi-layer movable shelves with blood storage basket

·         Data logging with printer

·         Eco-friendly refrigerant  

Relatable Products- Godrej Medical-grade Freezers and Refrigerators

Godrej Appliances has recently launched a range of ultra-low temperature refrigerators and mobile freezers for storage and maintenance of COVID-19 vaccines. The Godrej appliance maintain a standard temperature of 2°C to 8°C required to store highly-temperature sensitive Covaxin and CoviShield vaccines, that are being administered in India. Owing to the increasing demand for biomedical refrigerators and freezers for universal access to vaccines, Godrej is ramping up their manufacturing capacity for ultra-low temperature freezers, which currently stands at 12,000 units per annum. Besides supplying the medical-use refrigerator in India, the company is also executing international orders worth INR 55 crores, contributing to the global biomedical refrigerator and freezer market growth.

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Eppendorf AG, Desmon S.p.A., Cornerstone Capital Holding, Migali industries, Sofrigam SA, Philipp Kirsch GmbH, Binder GmbH, Bionics Scientific Technologies, among others are some of the leading market players in the Global Biomedical Refrigerators and Freezers market.

Conclusion

From storage to administration, some of the most promising coronavirus vaccines require non-stop sterile refrigeration to stay efficient and safe. But it is a sad reality that nearly 3 billion people of the world’s population live where cold-chain is insufficient for an immunization campaign to bring COVID-19 pandemic under control. People living in developing countries who were among the hardest hit by pandemic are most to be last to recover from it as maintaining the “cold-chain” for coronavirus vaccines might not be easy even in developed nations due to lack of investment in infrastructure and cooling technology. As per an estimate, India has 30% less storage capacity than it would need for coronavirus vaccine and lack of public transportation presents another obstacle to getting citizens vaccine inoculated.

According to TechSci research report on “Global Biomedical Refrigerators and Freezers Market, By Product (Pass-Through, Explosion Safe, Flammable storage, Combo/Dual Temperature, Ultra Low freezers, Plasma freezers, Others), By Storage (Blood, Vaccines, Plasma, DNA, Flammable chemicals, Others), By Temperature (RNA & DNA (-70°C to -80°C), Vaccines (-30°C to -40 °C), Others), By Capacity (138L, 169L, 221L, 230L, 426L, 690L, Others), By End-user (Hospitals, Pharmacies, Diagnostic Centres, Research Laboratories, Blood Banks), By Region, Forecast & Opportunities, 2025”, the global market for biomedical refrigerators and freezers is projected to grow at a formidable CAGR of 4.72% during the forecast period. Increasing demand for medical-grade refrigerators and freezers to store vaccines and introduction of eco-friendly appliances are boosting the growth of Global Biomedical and Refrigerators Market during the forecast period.

Source: Are BlueStar Range of Commercial Refrigerators ideal for Storing Vaccines?

Product Review: ACUSON Redwood Ultrasound System | TechSci Research

Siemens Healthineers has always been at the forefront of introducing ground-breaking innovations to the market—for the benefit of patients, medical professional, and society and the newly launched ACUSON Redwood premium ultrasound technology is a testimony to the same. The system is built on the company’s new platform architecture and features advanced applications that enable precise lesion detection and characterization as well as potentially reduces the need for invasive procedures. Leveraging AI-powered tools, the ACUSON Redwood ultrasound system reduces exam burden and enhances efficiency. Besides delivering premium image quality, exceptional performance, greater workflow efficiency, the ultrasound system offers clinicians an affordable solution with great clinical confidence.

With harmonic coherent image formation ultrasonic imaging method, the ACUSON Redwood ultrasound system exhibits favourable imaging characteristics such as improved contrast-to-noise ratio, better delineation of borders, improved speckle signal-to-noise ratio. Maintaining B-mode image quality performance even in complex modes, the ultrasound system does not let patient and probe motion compromise image quality, and provide higher resolution, higher frame rate when compared to other ultrasound systems.

For an ultrasonic transducer, the most important component is the piezoelectrical element used in the probe based on their electrical properties. Piezoelectric single crystals have superior dielectric and piezoelectric properties with significant advantages such as broad bandwidth and high sensitivity. The piezoelectric single crystals can provide diagnostic quality information about microscopic structures in living tissues, which supports deeper penetration and clearer imaging.

Speckles (random granular pattern) degrade the detail and contrast resolution of ultrasound images, which make accurate diagnosis more difficult. UltraArt universal image processing is a state-of-the-art speckle reduction algorithm that enhances ridges of directional structures and sharpen edges prior to image resolution without losing important features. In terms of clinical workflow, UltraArt universal image processing increases continuity of specular reflectors, improves contrast, reduce complexity and redundance, and enables robust image presentation and aesthetics. Also, UltraArt universal image processing enables a simple and intuitive graphical user interface unlike traditional post-processing user control that prevents users from choosing an ideal combination of images.

AutoTEQ ultrasound technology allows single-button optimization for consistent reproducible image quality, reduced operator strain, and greater diagnostic confidence. Thus, the technology significantly reduces time spend in optimizing images and improves the consistency and quality of diagnostic exams. AutoTEQ technology is independent of the user’s gain settings and instantly equalizes when switching between 2D and THI imaging modes.

With one-click registration, tools powered by artificial intelligence, and comprehensive suite of over 13 transducers supporting a diverse range of clinical applications, ACUSON Redwood Ultrasound system reduce downtime, maximize system performance, and enhance uptime. For faster and reliable support, the ACUSON Redwood Ultrasound system consists of Smart Remote Services, PEP Connect, teamplay Fleet.

To meet the demand for early detection, diagnosis, and timely treatment, ACUSON Redwood system offers a comprehensive suite of advanced applications such as:

·         Point Shear Wave Technology

When acoustic radiance force pulse is sent through tissues, the pulse generates lateral shear waves. Together ARFI and shear wave detection provide accurate and reproducible quantification and visualization of tissue stiffness. The one-touch shear wave technology provides extremely valuable insight for the assessment of liver in case of chronic diseases for both necro-inflammatory activity and fibrosis.

·         2D Shear Wave

2D shear wave elastography technique allows the interrogation of the tissue by acoustic radiation force impulses induced into them. The technology allows the elasticity to be displayed using a color-coded image that provides impressive results.

·         Strain Elastography

Strain elastography is a technique that enables improved detection and characterisation of breast masses. The strain elastography provides a simple and qualitative measure of lesion stiffness corresponding to the surrounding tissue.

·         syngo Velocity Vector Imaging

syngo Velocity Vector Imaging technology is an advanced technology which enable clinicians to examine the mechanical functions of the myocardium to detect possible dysfunctions. The technology uses individual vectors to display direction and relative velocity of frame-to-frame tissue movements enabling visualization, measurement, and display of myocardial mechanics like never before!

·         Stress Echo

Stress echo test determines the health of heart at rest and after it is stressed to help diagnose coronary artery disease and see how well the heart pumps blood and valves work. Stress echo test uses sound waves to make moving pictures of heart. ACUSON Redwood ultrasound system comprises of comprehensive and flexible stress echo package, including configurable stress echo protocols and wall motion scoring features.

·         Left Ventricular Opacification

The intuitive touch-screen layout has been streamlined to include necessary functions for cardiac studies. With no visual clutter, the user can focus on images rather than interfaces.

In addition to these features, ACUSON Redwood has a portable and light-weight design, which offers mobility and easy transport across various clinical departments. The ultrasound system can be utilized for the diagnosis of Abdominal, Paediatric, OB-GYN, Cardiac, Vascular, Urology, Neonatal, Musculoskeletal and Small Parts (Breast, Testis, Penile, Thyroid interventions.

Detailed Competition Analysis of ACUSON Redwood Ultrasound System

Diagnostic Imaging

Seimens Healthineers patented Auto Flash Suppression Technology provides accurate detailing and excellent contract across a wide range of applications. Philips incorporates MaxVue Remarkable visualization technology in its ultrasound system, which provides extraordinary display of anatomy with 1,179,648 additional image pixels compared to a standard 4:3 display format mode.  Thus, MaxVue technology provides 38% more display to optimize the display of dual, side/side, biplane, and scrolling imaging modes. Besides, Cannon’s premium ultrasound systems, Aplio a-series, which includes the a550 and a450 provide a wide-view of the scan to see more anatomy while acquiring images quickly with precise depth and detail and maintaining high image quality.

Accessibility

The light-weight design of ACUSON Redwood ultrasound system enhances the mobility of the device for various clinical operations but it does not offer the flexibility of remote operation like GE Healthcare’s Vscan Air Wireless Handheld Ultrasound. Accelerated by the COVID-19 pressure on health systems, handheld devices serve as an essential tool to enhance operationability of medical imaging devices outside the medical settings. The wireless pocket-sized ultrasound system provides crystal clear image quality and whole-body scanning—all in the palms of physician’s hands. Handheld ultrasound system provides the benefits of portability, cleanability, and workflow efficiency. The user-tested design includes software pre-sets for fast scanning, intuitive set-up, single-button for easy image capture and freezing so users can pair the probe and start scanning immediately.

Customization Flexibility

The interchangeable transducers portfolio allows physicians to use the probe in ACUSON Sequoia platform. Also, Siemen Healthineers offer customizable measurement package for shared service cardiology and adult and paediatric imaging. Offering ultimate customization and personalized system positioning with FleXstyle, Aplio i-series by Cannon Medical System enables easy sonographer adaptation and operation flexibility. The ultrasound system also features a programmable touchscreen panel for tailored layout and electric lifting for intuitive workflow and Healthy Sonographer ergonomics.

Transducer/Probe Design

ACUSON Redwood Ultrasound system has a super-sensitive probe to catch even the minutest sound wave for accurate representation of lesion and proper medical diagnosis. Aplio’s i-series micro convex transducer with iDMS technology provides excellent spatial resolution and its small footprint is ideal for technically difficult patients with limited imaging window. Another Cardiac Multi-Frequency iDMS offered by Cannon has 2-in-1 transducer covering frequency range of 2 existing transducer for neonatal and paediatric cardiac. However, 33 MHz Ultra-High Frequency iDMS Linear by Cannon provides extremely fine detail in the near field, allowing its use for examining the minovascularity of superficial structures. Philips also offers a broad range of transducers in multiple configurations, enabling better penetration with less artifacts.

Workflow

Siemens Healthineers’s ACUSON Redwood ultrasound system enhances efficiency for smart workflow, increase patient throughput, more productivity without sacrificing quality. The connected reported systems in newer generation ultrasound system streamline the workflow process. In 2018, Canon Aplio 900 CV was designed with 40% fewer keys to simplify workflow and was 50% lighter than previous Toshiba echo systems. GE Healthcare Logiq introduced automated lesion segmentation to enhance productivity via automation.

Conclusion

Moving beyond 2-D and 3-D imaging to offer new ways of reconstructing images can speed up evaluation and speed up the process of understanding the visual. The new ACUSON Redwood ultrasound system guarantees enhanced visualization with contrast and detailed anatomical representations. Even GE Healthcare’s fetalHQ heart has a Radiant Flow feature that shows the blood in 3-D view. Philip’s TrueVue also offer photo-realistic rendering and allows user to change shadows and add more depth perception. The Cannon Aplio 900 CV system also launched quad-chamber tracking feature to visualize the heart with echo. As the innovations will continue to expand, physicians can compare ultrasound with other imaging modalities while choosing the best and more powerful system to plan interventional procedures.

According to TechSci research report, “Global Diagnostic Imaging Market By Product Type ( Architecture (Open/Closed), By Field Strength (High and Very-High Field MRI Systems), By Systems (Ultrasound Systems, Nuclear Imaging Systems, X-Ray Imaging Systems, CT Scanner, MRI System, Mammography System, Fluoroscopy), By Portability (Stationary, Portability), By Application (OB/Gyn, Orthopaedic, Musculoskeletal, Neuro &Spine, General Imaging, Cardio &Thoracic, Breast health, Others), By End Users (Hospitals, Diagnostic Imaging Centres, Others), By Region, Forecast & Opportunities, 2016-2026F”, the Global Diagnostic Imaging Market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.72% during the forecast period, owing to rising geriatric population and new innovation in medical devices.

Source: Product Review: ACUSON Redwood Ultrasound System