X-ray With Ysio Wi-D: More Comfortable For The Patient, More Flexible For The Physician

Main Category: Radiology / Nuclear Medicine
Also Included In: Medical Devices / Diagnostics
Article Date: 14 Nov 2007 - 5:00 PDT

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With the Ysio wi-D, Siemens Medical Solutions introduces its first digital X-ray unit with a wireless detector to the market. Detectors convert X-ray radiation to digital image information, and are usually firmly integrated in the examination table. The wireless detector of the Ysio can be removed from the table and placed directly underneath or next to the patient. Exposures that are difficult or impossible to take using a permanently integrated detector, e.g. lateral exposures of the hip, can now be taken without difficulty. Furthermore, patients with restricted mobility can be X-rayed e.g. without having to be removed from a wheelchair. The wireless detector, which transmits image data to the diagnostic workstation via WLAN, can be used just as flexibly as a cassette in analog X-ray systems while at the same time offering all the advantages of digital X-ray imaging.

Digital X-ray systems offer diverse advantages in comparison to film or imaging plate X-ray systems. However, flat detectors permanently integrated in the system cannot be used as flexibly as cassettes, and with cabled, mobile flat detectors one remains "tied" in the truest sense of the word. The new Ysio wi-D X-ray system from Siemens Medical Solutions now combines the advantages of the flat detector with those of the cassette. The basis for this is a wireless detector (wi-D) that can be used just as flexibly as a cassette.

The Ysio wi-D is a totally redesigned X-ray system in which the overhead support, the examination table and the Bucky wall unit were all specially aligned to digital X-ray imaging. Whereas a newly developed detector that enables extended applications is permanently installed in the Bucky wall unit, a wireless detector whose chief strengths come to the fore when it is used outside of the table is employed in the table. The detector can be positioned almost anywhere, much like a film cassette. If the patient is brought into the examination room on a gurney or in a wheelchair, he does not necessarily have to be repositioned, since the detector can be placed either directly below or next to the patient.

With over 7 million pixels and a pixel size of 144 micrometers, the detector supplies images of excellent quality within seconds. The enhanced DiamondViewPlus software additionally optimizes the detail contrast and noise level of the images.

In comparison to cassette systems, digital X-ray systems simplify workflows considerably, e.g. since the image data are automatically transferred to the diagnostic workstation. Ysio wi-D simplifies routine daily work with a number of additional performance features: The system can move to as many as 1,000 different positions according to the set organ programs at the push of a button. Immovable obstacles located in the room, e.g. a washbasin, can be elegantly circumnavigated. The settings stand can be changed quickly and easily on the well arranged color touchscreen display of the tube assembly. A remote control enhances the system's ease of use.

Since, due to its versatility, the Ysio wi-D can be used in all X-ray rooms and its performance features are geared to short examination times, it is an ideal system for increasing the daily patient throughput decisive.

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).

http://www.medical.siemens.com