Siemens Syngo Colonography PEV For CT Colonography Examinations - A New Level Of Effectiveness

Main Category: Radiology / Nuclear Medicine
Also Included In: Colorectal Cancer;  Medical Devices
Article Date: 21 Aug 2007 - 2:00 PDT

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Siemens Medical Solutions is solidifying its presence at the forefront of the market for computer-assisted reading tools in CT colonography by announcing the release of a new version of syngo Colonography PEV (Polyp Enhanced Viewing), an automated second reader tool for the visualization of lesions in the colon. The solution helps radiologists to detect polyp-shaped objects between 6 mm and 25 mm in size and can now be used both in clean-prepped and solid-liquid tagged protocols. With the new version, syngo Colonography PEV delivers the benefits of computer-assisted reading to a wider range of protocols commonly applied in CT colonography today, including stool tagging agents. The PEV tool is seamlessly integrated into the syngo Colonography CT application.

Together with workflow-enhancing features such as Auto Polyp Measurements, the software improves reading accuracy as well as efficiency. The solution was developed using an extensive database of more than 1700 CT colonography cases from more than 15 clinical sites worldwide, and covers a variety of CT acquisition parameters and bowel preparation protocols. "Increased colorectal cancer screening is creating a demand for tools that improve speed, enhance confidence and offer our patients the highest possible level of care," said Dr. Anno Graser, Klinikum Grosshadern, Munich, Germany. "The PEV solution from Siemens represents a valuable support mechanism for detecting polyps, especially in the important 5-9 mm size range which require a high level of sensitivity and are critical during early diagnosis."

In addition to the PEV tool, Siemens recently introduced its auto-processing feature. Auto-Processing of CT data is Siemens latest in a portfolio of innovative solutions for improved workflow in CT. With its pre-processing technology for oncology, cardiac and acute care imaging, Siemens is helping radiologists to obtain critical images when and where needed in order to make faster and more efficient diagnostic decisions. In the field of oncology, data acquired on a Siemens Somatom CT scanner for colon exams is automatically processed off-line as it arrives at the syngo MultiModality Workplace. When the radiologist accesses the exam data using the syngo Colonography CT application, potential lesions are identified and ready for review when the reader accesses the PEV function.

"With the release of the new version of PEV, Siemens is strengthening its portfolio of computer-assisted reading offerings," said Alok Gupta, Ph.D., M.B.A., vice president of Computer-Aided Diagnosis and Knowledge Solutions, Image and Knowledge Management Division, Siemens Medical Solutions. "Our PEV and syngo Lung CAD offerings are enabling the management of large data volumes which is increasingly becoming a challenge for radiologists."

The first version of syngo Colonography PEV was launched in February 2006 as one of the first automated detection products for use in CT colonography, and the upgraded version is available on the syngo MultiModality Workplace 2007C as well as the syngo CT Workplace 2007C. Siemens has shipped more than 300 units of syngo Colonography PEV worldwide.

Siemens Medical Solutions is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry. The company is known for bringing together innovative medical technologies, healthcare information systems, management consulting, and support services, to help customers achieve tangible, sustainable, clinical and financial outcomes. Recent acquisitions in the area of in-vitro diagnostics - such as Diagnostic Products Corporation and Bayer Diagnostics - mark a significant milestone for Siemens as it becomes the first full service diagnostics company. Employing more than 41,000 people worldwide and operating in over 130 countries, Siemens Medical Solutions reported sales of 8.23 billion EUR, orders of 9.33 billion EUR and group profit of 1.06 billion EUR for fiscal 2006 (Sept. 30). Further information can be found by visiting http://www.usa.siemens.com/medical-pressroom.

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