Imaging Technology News - October 2008 - (Page 43)

Technology Overview ANESTHESIA Anesthesia Machines: Due to the high level magnetic field (up to 3 Tesla), compatible anesthesia machines are necessary to eliminate any effects on image quality. Also, the magnetic field can interfere with anesthesia machine functionality. MR-compatible anesthesia machine are built with special shielding material. ECG Monitor: Electrocardiography leads can act as antennas and cause MRI image degradation. Also, the voltage induced in the wire leads can cause electrical shock hazards and burns to the patient. To address these adverse effects, non-ferromagnetic fasteners, electrodes and graphite copper cables with plastic springs are used which do not affect MRI image. Pulse Oximetry: Magnetic fields can deactivate these monitors, therefore non-ferromagnetic or fiber optic wires are used to transfer the data to a monitor that is protected with shielding material. Blood Pressure Monitoring: To measure the non-invasive blood pressure in patients during an MRI, extended tubing and plastic connectors connect the cuff to the oscillometric monitor place far from the magnet. Respiratory Gas Monitor and C a p n o g r a p h y : Similar to blood pressure, these monitors are interfaced with the patient via extended plastic tubing. outside the magnetically charged scan room due to the risk of getting magnetically attracted to the bore and giving false readings. The Veris monitor addresses this challenge with a shield made of specialized materials that prevent it from being magnetically attracted. Controls for the monitor are available at the patient’s side, or a controlling unit can be set up anywhere at a convenient location. It also has an integral tray that is designed for cable management and accessory storage, thereby providing additional workspace. Major anesthesia machine manufacturers such as GE Healthcare and Draeger Medical have developed MRI-compatible systems that offer the same high level of functionally as the anesthesia systems used in the ICU and operating rooms. In August of 2008, Draeger Medical received FDA clearance for its Fabius MRI anesthesia machine. According to Draeger Medical, this system employs the same user interface as Fabius GS, Fabius Tiro and Apollo machines, creating a uniform and consistent interface for the anesthesia provider wherever anesthesia is required. Overall, where there is challenge, there’s opportunity. Unique healthcare environments such as the radiology suite or cath labs present tremendous opportunity for customized solutions. In the case of MRI, the powerful magnetic field presents the demand for compatible monitoring and anesthesia management solutions. Medical device companies that develop solutions to address such challenges can gain a major competitive advantage and entry to lucrative niche markets. ITN Mike Arani, MS, is a research analyst for Patient Monitoring at Frost & Sullivan. MRI-Compatible Equipment Most patient monitoring companies offer monitoring solutions specifically designed to tolerate magnetic fields of 1.5 or 3.0 Tesla. In 2005, Medrad Inc. developed an MR vital signs monitoring system, Veris MR, which is compatible with 3 Tesla magnetic fields. Conventional patient-monitoring systems have to be placed fast pass Just Launched on ITNonline.net Your Online Guide to Navigating RSNA 2008! RSNA RSNA FastPass—Your Online Guide to Navigating RSNA 2008 will feature: • Conference Daily Headlines • Vendor Booth Locations • New Product Announcements Featured modalities will include: • Advanced Visualization • Angio/Vascular • Archive/Storage • Computed Radiography • Computer-Aided Detection • Contrast Media/Injectors • CT Systems • Digital Radiography • Flat Panel Displays • Molecular Imaging • MRI • PACS • PACS Furniture • RIS • Ultrasound Systems • Women’s Healthcare Plan ahead and make the most of this year’s show with RSNA FastPass—Your Online Guide to Navigating RSNA 2008. Available now on ITNonline.net Sponsored by: ACIST Medical Systems • Anthro • Aurora Technology Inc. • Carestream Health Inc. • Eizo Nanao Corp. • iCRco • InSite One Inc. • TeraRecon Inc. Be sure to stop by ITN’s RSNA Booth #6811 ITNonline.net | October 2008 | ITN | 43 http://www.delmedical.com http://www.delmedical.com http://www.ITNonline.net

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Imaging Technology News - October 2008

Imaging Technology News - October 2008 Contents RSNA Low-Field MRI Systems Contrast Media Injectors AM-LCDs Special Report - Agents Target Neurological Diseases and Disorders IT Laser Imagers Monitors Meet Radiology Suite Needs MR Guides Ultrasound in Outpatient Treatments Replacing a Legacy PACS PACS SAs: Titles and Salaries

Imaging Technology News - October 2008

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