Thursday, March 11, 2010
Environmentally Friendly Syringe Minimizes Packaging to Save Resources
Cambridge Consultants, a product design and development firm, has created a new prefilled syringe that uses fewer resources to manufacture than many current models. Unsurprisingly, the green syringe was named Syreen, but its environmental credentials are only part of the features of the new device.
Instead of glass, Syreen syringes are made with COP (cyclic olefin polymer) plastic, which has enabled Cambridge Consultants to shed the need for secondary packaging altogether, a first in this medical device arena. The makeup of the Syreen allows syringes to clip together, nesting in a pack while the COP design doubles as the outer shell of the packaging itself. The Syreen therefore eliminates the need for wasteful fillers such as cardboard and styrofoam, reducing the packaging weight by 30 percent and volume by 50 percent from today's standard packaging.To use Syreen, simply unclip the prefilled syringe and put it against the desired area on the skin. After delivery, with a simple snap, the user ejects the needle into the sharps bin and allowing the user to potentially recycle the plastic capsule. Patient and healthcare provider safety is also increased due to two further features of the design. Firstly, the COP plastic syringe features a curved surface over the needle that, while keeping the syringe from rolling and reducing needle-stick accidents, also ensures overall stability and depth control during injection. Secondly, the design insures that, with separated plunger and stopper, it is impossible to take in blood or other contaminants, reducing the risk of cross infection.
Press release: Novel syringe demonstrates cost benefits of sustainable product design...
(0)
Friday, March 5, 2010
Syncardia's Freedom Mobile Artificial Heart Driver Gets CE Mark
SynCardia of Tucson, AZ, maker of the CardioWest Total Artificial Heart, has received European approval for the Freedom wearable driver. The device allows patients to get off the "Big Blue" driver that powers their heart in the hospital after implantation, and regain a sense of mobility while on wait for a permanent donated organ. It's not clear how long the batteries last before requiring a recharge.
From the announcement:
SynCardia hospital drivers support patients from Total Artificial Heart implant until their condition stabilizes. Once stable, European patients will be switched to the Freedom driver and discharged from the hospital to wait for their matching donor heart at home.The Freedom driver weighs 13.5 lbs including two onboard lithium ion batteries and a power adaptor. It can be conveniently carried by the patient in the Freedom Backpack or Shoulder Bag. The Freedom driver is 60% lighter than SynCardia’s older CE approved “proof of concept” portable driver, which weighs approximately 35 lbs and is transported in a wheeled caddy.
The Freedom driver uses a “dark cockpit” design philosophy for simple and easy operation. Similar to an airplane cockpit, the system only flashes a light or sounds an alarm when something requires the user’s attention.
To make maintenance easier for hospitals, the Freedom driver is serviced by replacement via express delivery. No onsite repair or inventory of parts is required by the hospital.
Press release: Freedom Driver System Receives CE Mark to Power SynCardia's Total Artificial Heart in Europe ...
Flashbacks: Medgadget's SynCardia archives...
Images courtesy of syncardia.com.
(0)
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
GE's Vscan, World's Smallest Portable Ultrasound, Now Available Worldwide
GE Healthcare is finally releasing the much awaited Vscan pocket sized ultrasound. Many in the industry hope that this device offers a chance for physicians to make a move from stethoscopes to portable imaging devices, bringing advanced visualization to any examination room. The unit weighs one pound and is only 3 inches (7.6 cm) wide and 5.3 inches (13.5 cm) long, offering both standard black and white imaging, as well as colored blood flow doppler. GE is touting Vscan's size and capabilities for cardiologists to transthoracically view myocardium, pericardium, and heart valves, and for primary care physicians, as well as OB, ER, and others, to scan the liver, kidney, 
aorta and peripheral vessels, babies in the womb, and anything else the transducer can penetrate.
Features from the product FAQ:
An online portal provides Vscan users with training tools for the product and basic clinical
applications with sections about imaging technique, anatomy and trouble shooting
Intuitive user interface that can be controlled using the thumb
Intelligent workflow enhancements
Battery charger station and battery life of one hour scanning - good for up to 30 patients based on
average of 2 minutes per scan
Voice annotation
USB docking station
Link to a PC for organization and export of data
Gateway software with services tools and remote diagnostics
Here's our video from a GE event introducing the Vscan:
Press release: GE Healthcare Introduces Vscan™ Pocket-sized Visualization Tool for Point-of-care Imaging
Product page: Vscan ...
Flashbacks: A Closer Look at GE's Vscan Pocket Ultrasound ; More Details About The New GE Vscan Ultrasound System; GE's New Ultra Small Ultrasound May Become as Ubiquitous as Stethoscope
(4)
Friday, February 12, 2010
In Emergency, S-SCORT S3 Delivers Scoop, Suction, Sump
When emergency strikes and patient's airway fills up with a massive amount of gastric content, the regular Yankauer suction tip just can't handle the job. So to overcome the limitations, veteran firefighter and paramedic Jeff Rehman developed S-SCORT S3, a new oropharyngeal evacuation tool. Marketed by SSCOR, Inc., Sun Valley, CA firm, the device is described as a "rigid yet flexible large bore suction tip with a concave 'scooping' surface which allows for removal of solids and other material that will not travel through a large bore suction tube."
To learn about the device check out the following video released by SSCOR:
Product page: S3...
(hat tip: The Denver Post)
(0)
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Toshiba's Viamo Ultrasound Now Available in US
Toshiba won FDA approval to market the Viamo portable ultrasound, a convertible touchscreen device that the company promises provides the same image quality as premium cart systems. The package comes with a wheeled pole that can carry the Viamo and additional transducers for easy exchange.
From the product page:
Sharing its core imaging engine and transducer technology with Aplio XG, Viamo offers high-end image quality also in situations where unlimited portability is required.Its full range of high-performance imaging functions lets you visualize minute tissue details and vascular structures with precision for a faster, more accurate diagnosis. Advanced imaging functions such as Pulse Subtraction THI come standard with Viamo.
Viamo’s built-in touch screen allows for seamless workflow and an outstandingly comfortable and intuitive operation of the system. Viamo’s monitor can be rotated to enable free positioning of the screen. When fully turned and folded flat, Viamo can be operated in tablet mode solely via its touch screen. Individual key functions on Viamo’s console and touch screen are user programmable to suit your specific diagnostic requirements or personal preferences.
A whole range of workflow automation functions is available on Viamo. One-touch QuickScan for instance helps you achieve better imaging results in less time by automatically optimizing your imaging parameters. And Viamo’s innovative SonoSet™ function alows you to carry out examinations conveniently by simply executing freely programmable protocols step by step.
The battery-powered system is operational within just a few seconds when opened, making it instantaneously available also in critical situations.
Press release: TOSHIBA RECEIVES FDA CLEARANCE FOR VIAMO ULTRASOUND SYSTEM...
Product page: Viamo...
(0)
Monday, February 1, 2010
Gas Guide App for iPhone Provides Handy Access to Anesthesia Info
A free new application is now available for the iPhone platform that provides clinically useful information for anesthesia residents and practicing anesthesiologists. Quick access is available to preoperative checklists, procedures, patient guidelines, and drug information. The Gas Guide app was developed by a group of clinicians but comes with a disclaimer to double check any information before putting it into practice.
Emergencies: Acute Stridor, Anaphylaxis, Cardiac Arrest, Cardiac Devices, Common Problems, Crisis Algorithm, Hemorrhage & Transfusion, Malignant Hyperthermia, Tension Pneumothorax.Operative Safety: ASA Daily Check, ASA Pre-Anesthesia Check, FDA Apparatus Checkout, JCAHO Universal Protocol, Operating Room Fires, WHO Surgical Safety Check.
Pre-Operative Setup: Anesthesia Care Plan, Patient History, Physical Exam, Cardiac Clearance, Cardiac Devices, Neuro Information, Patient Positioning, Psychological Prep, Spanish Translation.
Airway Management: Evaluation, Mask Ventilation, Ventilator Settings, Supraglottic Airway, Endotracheal Intubation, Rapid Sequence Induction (RSI), Difficult Airway Algorithm, Transtracheal Jet Ventilation, Cricothyroidotomy.
Common Medications: Anesthesia Med Classes, Emergency Medications, Endotracheal & IV/IO, Induction Agents, Inhalation Agents, IV Concentrations, Local Infiltration, Muscle Relaxants, Pain, PONV, & PRN.
Nerve Blockade: General Principles, Ankle Block, Axillary Block, Fascia Iliaca Block, Femoral Block, Infraclavicular Block, Interscalene Block, Neuraxial Epidural Block, Neuraxial Spinal Block, Popliteal Block, Sciatic Block.
Patient Monitoring: Arterial Line, Bispectral Index, Capnography, Echocardiography, Electrocardiography, Fluids & Equations, HR, RR, BP, SpO2, Nerve Stimulator, PA Cath & CV Cath.
Vascular Access: Arterial Line, CVC Femoral, CVC Internal Jugular, CVC Subclavian, Intraosseous, Peripheral IV, Pulmonary Artery.
Additional: Anesthesia Aphorisms, Glossary of Pain Terms.
Product page: Gas Guide: A Quick Reference Guide For Anesthesia Professionals...
(0)
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Drager Introduces Zeus Infinity Empowered
Drägerwerk AG has just announced the release of a new anesthesia machine, called Dräger Zeus Infinity Empowered (IE), that features a combination of options to conduct either inhalational or intravenous based techniques, or both at the same time. Furthermore, for those who are looking on some savings when it comes to delivery of desflurane (and to a lesser degree isoflurane or maybe halothane), the machine offers a closed circuit system design. And as far as blower is concerned, the machine is based on a popular Dräger Evita Infinity V500 ventilator.
Dräger Zeus IE provides all options of anaesthetic techniques: From inhalation to (total) intravenous anaesthesia – all these applications can be utilised in the closed circuit system of the Dräger Zeus IE. Thanks to its closed circuit system, the device consumes even less gas than in the low flow or minimal flow mode – and that fully automated. In addition to the manually controlled fresh gas dosing also oxygen, carrier gas and volatile anaesthetics can be controlled automatically and targeted accurately (TCA = target controlled anaesthesia). The device also compensates potential leakages automatically. The haemodynamic monitoring, which can be integrated as an option, is operated via the high-definition 17" screen of the medical cockpit, the Infinity C500. Via this cockpit, the clinician can also control the ventilation parameters. By this, all OR information is fed to the integrated patient data management system, thus also simplifying the work procedures.Even in the operating room, adult patients, children and neonates benefit from the differentiated ventilation in intensive care quality. The turbine allows for spontaneous breathing at any time, which can shorten the recovery time for the patient. Up to four syringe pumps (Fresenius Module DPS), which can be controlled via the system, and the integrated medication database, which includes pre-configured default values and dosing limits for numerous pharmaceuticals, ensure an optimal intravenous anaesthesia.
In the operating room and the intensive care unit, nomenclatures and principles of use should be identical. The concept of the IACS, into which the Dräger Zeus IE can be integrated, provides exactly this. The user interface, nomenclature and parts of the hardware employed correspond to those of other IACS components, such as the Dräger Evita Infinity V500 ventilator. USB ports for storing and loading device and profile settings enable the clinician to transmit settings within a very short period of time to any number of Zeus IE systems. The uniform, intuitive user interface and a more efficient service concept are intended to support the operator.
Product announcement: Dräger Zeus Infinity Empowered: The next generation of anaesthesia devices by Dräger...
(0)
SmartPilot View: An Anesthesiologist's Flight Simulator
Drägerwerk AG is releasing a new software package to help manage and predict the progress of intraoperative anesthesia (general and MAC), including modeling drug interactions and taking into account the unique nature of individual patients' physiology. Looks like the software is designed to model narcs, barbs and benzos, but not inhalational agents:
Dräger SmartPilot View is an assistance system, which supports anaesthetists in making decisions, but does not make decisions for them. The software is based on pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic patient models, which calculate and visualise the effects of analgesics (opioides) and sedatives (hypnotics). Up to now, it was not possible to visualise the interactions between these two substance groups and to show the anaesthetist at which stage of the anaesthesia the patient is and will be. In addition, the SmartPilot View gives an answer to the question: "What would happen if …". The software provides a preview of the calculated course – before the pharmaceuticals are applied to the patient. The program also displays the effects of the relaxants included in the anaesthesia with the corresponding time of occurrence.SmartPilot View displays all information required for controlling the anaesthesia at a glance: In addition to the measured parameters, for example pulse rate and blood pressure, the software also displays the chronological sequence of the applied pharmaceuticals and their effects in a two-dimensional representation. The idea of this representation is based on the cockpit of an aeroplane. This means that the anaesthetist sees precisely – like a pilot – at which calculated stage of the anaesthesia the patient is just now and what the prediction for the immediate future will be.
SmartPilot View can support anaesthetists in previously detecting and preventing under dosing and overdosing – even if the anaesthesia is initiated intravenously, but then continued with volatile agents. In this scenario it would not even make a difference if the anaesthesia had been initiated manually via an injection. Event markers such as intubation, incision or repositioning enable the anaesthetist to document important events during the course of the anaesthesia...
In clinical routine, the SmartPilot View operates with Dräger anaesthesia systems (Primus/Primus IE, Zeus/ZeusIE) and Dräger monitoring systems (Infinity Delta, Infinity C700 for IT and Infinity Explorer). In combination with specified syringe pumps (B. Braun Space or Dräger IVenus), the anaesthetist can use the full functionality of the software.
Press release: Anaesthesia pilot...
(0)
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Thermahelm Motorcycle Helmet Cools Head Upon Impact
A University of Edinburgh PhD student from the United Kingdom has created a motorcycle helmet that uses an endothermic chemical reaction to self-cool upon impact. The company, Termahelm, will soon offer the ability to either buy a helmet directly from them or retrofit your current helmet with the cooling technology.
The website is misleading on the benefit of this technology in that it points to a multitude of studies investigating systemic hypothermia in the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI) where the entire patient is cooled for an extended period of time. That's not what the helmet is doing and even if it were, whether or not this actually helps seems to still be an open question (see review). Also, the premise of the idea rests upon two assumptions: one, that prophylactic local hypothermia (icin' the noggin') leads to better severe head trauma outcomes. And two, that applying this therapy immediately, even before an ambulance arrives, has a clinical benefit.
That being said, it seems like a neat idea and leaves us with the obvious question: Can you activate it while riding on a hot summer day?
Product page: Thermahelm...
(hat tip: Gizmodo)
(6)
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Hemolung, a Respiratory Dialysis Device, to Start Clinical Trials
Ventilators, though staples of modern critical care, have serious drawbacks for both patient safety and comfort, and flexibility issues for clinicians. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting that a considerably less intrusive system from a local company called ALung Technologies is about to begin clinical trials in India and Europe. The Hemolung is designed to perform respiratory gas exchange via a catheter inserted into the femoral or jugular vein. The process is essentially similar to traditional extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, but thanks to new technology, the device is touted to be safer and easier on the patient.
Here's what an article in Pulmonary Reviews in Feb 2009 detailed about the system:
The Hemolung is a small, cylindrical, veno-venous extracorporeal CO2 removal device, said Dr. Batchinsky, a research scientist at the US Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, Texas. “It provides roughly 30% to 40% CO2 removal at blood flows in the range of 400 to 500 mL/min,” which, in this ovine study, translated into a CO2 removal of 66 mL/min. The Hemolung requires a prime volume of 300 mL and minimal heparinization.The military is investigating the artificial lung with the goal of delivering new critical care technology to the battlefield, Dr. Batchinsky indicated. “The Hemolung may be beneficial during the transport of combat casualties with acute lung injury back from the front lines to the Continental US. It is a ‘set it and forget it’–type device that is easy to use and operate.” Additional potential applications include use as a bridge prior to lung transplantation and as an intermittent therapy for ARDS and COPD.
ALung's expectations of benefits for patients:
Elimination of sedation allows the patient to stay alert, eat and communicate.
Elimination of ventilator associated pneumonia eliminates dangerous complications, and should reduce cost of care and length of stay in the ICU.
Avoidance of intubation allows the patient to eat, speak and prevents tracheal injury and sinus infection.
Reduction in weaning failure should reduce length of stay in the ICU and potential mortality.
Reduction in tracheostomies will reduce an invasive surgical procedure to the larynx.
Reduced lung injury may reduce the incidence of death.
More at Pittsburgh Post-Gazette...
More from Pulmonary Reviews: Respiratory Dialysis Device Safely Removed CO2 in Ovine Study...
Product page: Hemolung...
(0)
Friday, November 20, 2009
Infinity M540 from Draeger Makes Hospital Workflow and Patient Data Oh So So Smooth
Here's another piece of news about medical gadgetry released at the ongoing Medica 2009. The Infinity M540 from Drägerwerk AG & Co. (aka Dräger) is designed to provide portability and full functionality of a stationary vitals signs monitor:
The Dräger Infinity M540 measures and saves patient vital signs data, including 12-lead ECG and etCO2 values. For transport, the hospital staff can release the M540 from its docking station using one hand. The monitor continues to display and record vital data without interruption. As soon as the M540 is reconnected to a docking station – whether at its previous location or on a different ward – it automatically backfills the data recorded on transport into the Medical Cockpit, which is the central control and viewing unit of the Infinity Acute Care System.This way, trends and events from the patient's current hospital stay are accessible to the clinician even after transport. When the Infinity M540 is used in combination with an Infinity C700 or C500 Medical Cockpit, relevant monitoring parameters are available. "In view of increasingly complex clinical scenarios, having comprehensive patient information is becoming a key factor in modern patient care," says Prof. Dr. Jürgen Peters, Director of the Clinic for Anesthesiology and Intensive Care at Essen University Hospital. The clinic was the first facility in the world to install Infinity M540 monitors.
To support hospital workflow, a compact monitor design and simple operation are also required. "In the daily clinical routine, it is important for staff and patients that devices are simple to operate," explains Jürgen Peters. "The less we have to concentrate on the technology, the more we can focus on the patients."
The slim, rectangular design of the M540 makes it possible to hold the patient monitor with just one hand. The color display fills almost the entire surface area of the monitor, so multiple vital signs parameters can be viewed at a glance despite the compact size of the device.
When the monitor is turned 180 degrees, the display rotates automatically so information is immediately readable again (auto-flip technology). This enables the monitor to be positioned on either side of the patient, as required for proper orientation of the cable connectors.
When docked, the M540 can automatically adopt the settings from the Medical Cockpit to which it is connected. This allows each ward to immediately display the parameters relevant to the ward without having to reprogram the device. As menus, nomenclature, function keys and display are similar to other Dräger components, the M540 can require only a minimal amount of training. This standardization also helps to avoid errors.
Press release: New Monitoring Component for the Infinity Acute Care System...
(0)
Thursday, November 19, 2009
My Lab One Portable Ultrasound from Esaote Makes Debut
At the ongoing Medica 2009 in Düsseldorf, Esaote out of Genoa, Italy is releasing a new portable ultrasound system that features a 12 inch touch screen for manipulating settings without having to use buttons. The My Lab One can be worn on a shoulder strap and is designed for mobile applications such as ambulatory anesthesia, EMT, military and sports medicine.
From the press release:
The automatic rotation of the image according to the position of the system, an ergonomic probe equipped with controls, a long life battery, all add up to making this ultrasound an extraordinary innovation in the medical system arena.MyLab One is a “dedicated” ultrasound, which reflects perfectly today’s need for diagnostic capabilities in many different fields of application: from Radiology to Cardiology, from to Orthopaedics, Anaesthesia, Sports Medicine, etc… or in first-aid, emergency, vascular screening as well as in general practices.
Press release: Esaote presents “My Lab One” Innovative “wearable” ultrasound scanner ARM HELD
Product page: Esaote ultrasound...
(0)
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
A New LED Powered Endoscope from Schölly
Schölly Fiberoptic out of Denzlingen, Germany is releasing a new video bronchoscope with CMOS "chip-in-the-tip" and bright LED technology. The device is going to be unveiled at MEDICA 2009 next week in Düsseldorf.
The controller unit is plug-and-play with easy start-up. Its compact size saves table space and the simple controls eliminate the need for lengthy training. The controller is completely silent since it does not require a cooling fan. All video settings are preprogrammed, so no complicated and time consuming set-up is necessary. A single cable leads from the controller to the ergonomic handpiece. The handpiece includes the tip deflection lever, working channel port, suction valve, and buttons for taking photos and illumination adjustment. High-powered LEDs are incorporated inside the handpiece. These LEDs eliminate the need for costly replacement bulbs.
Link: Innovative New Video Bronchoscope with DeepVu Technology ...
(hat tip: German Healthcare Export Group)
(0)
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Covidien Announces Global Launch of Mallinckrodt TaperGuard Line of ETTubes
Anesthesiologists, EMTs and other intubators, rejoice! Covidien has just announced the world wide release of a new line of endotracheal tubes called Mallinckrodt™ TaperGuard™. Designed to "substantially" reduce the risk of microaspirations thanks to its taper-shaped cuff, the tubes come in two models: TaperGuard™ and TaperGuard™ Evac (shown in the picture).
More details in the press release...
Product page: TaperGuard...
(0)
GE's New Ultra Small Ultrasound May Become as Ubiquitous as Stethoscope
Yesterday at the Web 2.0 Summit in San Francisco, GE showed off their new 
handheld ultrasound device. The Vscan looks like a cross between an iPod and a cell phone, making it possibly the world's smallest ultrasound. Later today we'll be attending GE's healthymagination technology showcase in New York where further details and specs will hopefully become available.
For critical care clinicians, Vscan can offer an immediate look beyond patient vital signs with the potential to identify critical issues, like fluid around the heart, which could be a sign of congestive heart failure. And for cardiologists, Vscan provides a dependable visual evaluation of how well the heart is pumping at a glance, so they can treat patients more efficiently.
(2)
Monday, October 5, 2009
Tiny Portable Ultrasound from SonoSite Gets US OK
SonoSite (Bothell, Washington) just announced that the company received FDA approval to market the firm's tiny NanoMaxx ultrasound system throughout the United States. Weighing in at only 6 pounds (2.7 kilo) and with a battery life of 2 operational hours, the system is truly portable for busy clinics, ambulances, emergency rooms, and elsewhere that ultrasound is needed.
The new ultra portable and one button design of the NanoMaxx system makes high quality ultrasound available to a much broader range of clinicians. The system incorporates SonoSite’s advanced proprietary imaging algorithms, including SonoMB™ and SonoAdapt™ to deliver superior image quality in a lightweight, rugged form factor.With a touch screen that responds easily to the tap of a finger, and one button optimization, clinicians can readily acquire high resolution images to increase clinical productivity at the point-of-care. A system boot-up time of less than 20 seconds and long battery life further enhance workflow when using the NanoMaxx system.
At introduction, the NanoMaxx tool is available with a complement of five transducers to support a wide range of examinations and procedures including thoracic assessment for pathology, vascular access, needle aspirations and injections, as well as abdominal, cardiac, nerve, OB/Gyn, musculoskeletal, small parts and vascular scanning.
For convenience and flexibility, the system can be wall mounted, placed on an exam table with kickstand attached, or used from a highly maneuverable stand. Physicians can easily carry the NanoMaxx tool from room-to-room, to a satellite office, to the operating room or to a field site for immediate use.
The NanoMaxx system’s highly integrated architecture and ruggedized design, including the industry’s first elastomeric bumper for extra durability, plus magnesium outer shell, allows it to be used in the most demanding and austere environments. Proving its reliability, the NanoMaxx system and its transducers successfully passed SonoSite’s standard three foot durability drop test.
In addition, to further reduce the risk of infection, the NanoMaxx system’s fluid-resistant user interface makes the system easy to clean and disinfect, helping to address the growing concern over infection control in the medical community.
Press release: SonoSite Announces FDA Clearance for Its New Nanomaxx Ultrasound Tool
Product page: NanoMaxx
Flashback: NanoMaxx Tiny 6 Lb. Ultrasound System Unveiled
(0)
Thursday, September 17, 2009
SafetyNet Monitoring System Keeps an Eye on Wards of Patients
Masimo is releasing a new version of the firm's popular SafetyNet™ remote monitoring system. According to the company, the system can provide continuous pulse oximetry readings from up to eighty patients on four separate hospital floors. The technology aims to decrease respiratory-related adverse events in a high risk population, such as post-surgical patients on the general care floor, patients with obstructive sleep apnea, and those who are on narcotic analgesics. Using internal pagers or interfacing with other messaging systems, the central server can notify clinicians if a patient requires prompt attention.
The Masimo Patient SafetyNet remote monitoring and clinician notification system combines the gold standard performance of Masimo SET® pulse oximetry with optional Oridion Microstream® end tidal CO2-based respiration rate monitoring at the point of care and wireless clinician notification via pager to provide an unmatched level of patient safety on general care floors. The system uses IEEE industry standards for connectivity—allowing for more efficient sharing of data across a hospital's IT platforms and the option of full integration into a hospital's existing IT infrastructure, providing a lower overall cost of ownership and improved financial benefits.The new Patient SafetyNet system is already having a big impact on both nurses and post-surgical patients for two hospitals involved in limited market release testing. Marilyn Nemerever, R.N., director of Acute Care at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, where the new system is being used to monitor patients in three separate post-surgical units at three different hospitals from a single central monitoring station, stated "We love it. ICU beds are in high demand these days and Patient SafetyNet allows us to more closely monitor post-surgical patients in our med-surg units, so we can use our ICU resources more appropriately. Our nurses now have the piece of mind that comes with knowing that Patient SafetyNet is helping watch over their patients if and when they cannot. And our patients are having better outcomes because we can see, as well as respond to changes earlier."
Clinicians at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, who found that Patient SafetyNet reduced rescue activations by 65% and ICU transfers by 48%—while in some patients where ICU transfer was avoided, length of stay was also reduced from 5.8 to 3.6 days with an associated cost of care reduction of 30%, have also embraced the capabilities of the new Patient SafetyNet system. George T. Blike, M.D., Medical Director of Patient Safety at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire, stated; "The new system enhancements allow us to see real-time numerics for each patient at a glance, while the ability to monitor more patients on a single server will enable us to deploy the system across more care areas than before to reduce overall costs of implementation."
Press release: Masimo Launches Enhanced Masimo Patient SafetyNet™ System to Help Hospitals Reduce Preventable Deaths on the General Floor...
Product brochure: Masimo Patient SafetyNet System...
(0)
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
With AnestAssist, iPhone Now Models Anesthesia Pharmacology
Palma Healthcare Systems, a small company out of Madison, Wisconsin, has just released the AnestAssist pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modeling application for the iPhone. The software presents residents, anesthesiologists and intensivists with an easy to understand, and hopefully clinically useful, visual data of pharmacological behavior and drug interactions for the most commonly used anesthesia medications.
Anesthesiologists, CRNA's, and other clinicians involved with anesthesiology, from residents to the very experienced, will find AnestAssist a valuable tool for understanding and designing rational dosing strategies tailored to individual patients.Mathematical models published by clinical researchers, which take into account patient weight, age, and gender, are used to estimate and chart:
Plasma Concentration
Effect Site Concentration
Probability of Effect (including interactions):
Analgesia: No response to laryngoscopy
Sedation: OAA/S < 2 Drugs modeled: Propofol, Remifentanil, Fentanyl, Alfentanil, and Sufentanil.
Interactions modeled: Propofol and any combination of Remifentanil, Fentanyl, Alfentanil, or Sufentanil.
Case library: design and build your own case library to record and demonstrate dosing strategies for a variety of patient types and drugs used.
Product page: AnestAssist...
(0)
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Fighting Catheter Associated Urinary Tract Infections with a Better Designed Foley Tray
Catheter associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI) account for up to 40% of hospital-acquired infections. Patients who get urinary tract infections during their hospitalization often find themselves staying for longer periods of time than necessary at a high cost to the hospital, especially given that Medicare and Medicaid often don't provide additional reimbursement for CAUTI.
Reducing these infections generally involves making sure the catheter was needed in the first place, ensuring that good sterile technique is used during placement, keeping the duration of catheterization as short as possible, and keeping the catheter properly secured to the patient's leg. In an effort to reduce CAUTI, Medline Industries, developed a new Foley catheter tray that attempts to be more intuitive, better designed, and with more directions than current trays. It's only one level deep, has clear labeling guiding the practitioner step by step, and contains clearer instructions for insertion of the catheter.
It would be nice to see some data on whether the new tray's design actually promotes better aseptic technique, but for those who've used a Foley tray before and experienced the often unwieldy and unorganized contents, any step toward a better design seems to be a good one.
From the press release:
"Even though clinicians do their best to practice good aseptic techniques, infections happen due to poor technique or because the catheter is left in too long," said Alecia Cooper, RN, MBA, CNOR, Sr. Vice President, Clinical Services for Medline.In reengineering the Foley catheter tray, Medline focused on incorporating tools and tips for improving the insertion process to help minimize CAUTI risk. For example, the tray features an innovative one-layer design that guides the clinician through the process of placing the catheter while ensuring aseptic technique. (Typical catheter trays consist of two layers, requiring additional room to perform the procedure, increasing the risk of breaking the sterile field.) Visual reminders and cues are strategically placed to guide the clinician through the correct procedure.
"The new tray design, instructions, arrangement, and labeled components are designed to help make it hard for the worker to do the wrong thing," said Sue MacInnes, Chief Marketing Officer for Medline.
Product page: CAUTI Erase Tray...
(3)
» Resposable Oxymeter Sensor Aims to Cut Costs, Waste (July 23, 2009)
» MicroEye Real Time Blood Monitoring System (July 21, 2009)
» VasoNova Gets to The Heart of The Matter (July 17, 2009)
» New Cerebral Oximeter from Nonin Granted US OK (July 16, 2009)
» Pressure Alert for ETTubes (July 16, 2009)
» NanoMaxx Tiny 6 Lb. Ultrasound System Unveiled (July 7, 2009)
» LUCAS 2 Automatic Chest Compressor Gets US Green Light (June 29, 2009)
» Improve Your Ultrasound Skills With New SonoSite iPhone App (June 24, 2009)
» Voice Activated SonoSite Ultrasound System Keeps Hands Free to Perform Procedures (June 19, 2009)
» HyGreen Active Sensor Network Makes Sure Hands Are Kept Clean (June 17, 2009)
» Masimo Unveils New Pulse Oximeter Rad-8 (June 10, 2009)
» The Signos, Self Contained Handheld Ultrasound Gains FDA Approval (May 20, 2009)
» BrainLab's Digital Lightbox Getting an Upgrade (May 13, 2009)
» LifeBelt CPR Device Wins in Design Contest (May 5, 2009)
» NAVA (Neurally Adjusted Ventilatory Assist) Ventilation Technology (May 5, 2009)
» First Clinical Trial Implantatation of C-Pulse Heart Assist System (April 22, 2009)
» Philips HeartStart MRx ALS Defib Gets Fresh Updates (April 14, 2009)
» Nellcor OxiMax N-600x (April 9, 2009)
» Continous Cuff-free BP Monitor from MIT (April 8, 2009)
» Rad-87 Pulse Oximeter Wins in Awards (April 8, 2009)
» Puritan Bennett 540, a New Covidien Ventilator With Smart Battery Technology (March 31, 2009)
» New Pulse Oximeter from OrSense Monitors Practically Everything in Sight (March 26, 2009)
» Easy Hemoglobin Monitoring Without Butterflies, Needles or Catheters (March 25, 2009)
» Magnetic Separation of Sepsis Pathogen Out of Infected Blood (March 25, 2009)
» Fluid Volume Monitoring with Pulse Ox Shows Promise (March 20, 2009)
» Security Sensor to Monitor Neonatal Vital Signs (March 17, 2009)
» New Ventilator Aims to Take Inhalational Anesthetics to ICU (March 4, 2009)
» Capnostream 20, a Smart Capnography System, Gets FDA OK (February 27, 2009)
» 15 Minute MRSA Test (February 13, 2009)
» Touch Based Ultrasound System Gets European OK (February 10, 2009)
» Rapid MRSA Test from MicroPhage (January 27, 2009)
» A New Driver System for CardioWest Artificial Heart (January 22, 2009)
» ZOLL R Series Defibrillator with WiFi Given US Green Light (December 17, 2008)
» Super Stethoscope from Deep Breeze Approved by FDA (December 16, 2008)
» US Navy to Trial Hemopure Stabilized Hemoglobin (December 11, 2008)
» WAND Vascular Introducer Gets FDA OK (December 10, 2008)
» Zonare Shows Off Proprietary Ultrasound Technology (December 3, 2008)
» MonsterMedic Stretcher (December 2, 2008)
» Monitoring Muscle Tissue for Signs of Circulatory Shock (November 21, 2008)
» Medical Device With Own Online Simulator (November 19, 2008)
» How Math May Solve Septicemia (November 12, 2008)
» Continuous Noninvasive Blood Pressure Monitoring with CNAP Monitor 500 (November 11, 2008)
» Neonatal Resuscitation and Ventilation Going Ultra Mobile (November 10, 2008)
» CARDIOHELP, World's Smallest Bypass Machine (November 5, 2008)
» Blue Dolphin Dives into Trachea (October 30, 2008)
» Infrascanner, an Intracranial Hematoma Detector, Goes on Sale in Europe (October 21, 2008)
» Vibration Response Imaging (VRI) Shows Promise In Assessing Postoperative Lung Function (October 16, 2008)
» MedEx 1000: ICU in a Suitcase! (October 14, 2008)
» LIFEPACK 20e, Now With a Bigger Battery (October 8, 2008)
» Catheter with SecurAcath Subcutaneous Mounting System Gets OK (October 8, 2008)
» Want to Get CATANIA Coronary Stent? Go to Europe! (October 2, 2008)
» IVs That Kill...The Bugs (September 30, 2008)
» A CRIC In The Neck! (September 30, 2008)
» The Fastest Way To a Man's Heart is Through FAST1 Intraosseous Infusion System (September 29, 2008)
» Sagent Pharmaceutical's Sequential Syringes (September 29, 2008)
» Coming to ICU Near You: Monitoring of In Vivo Drug Concentrations (September 18, 2008)
» Solex Goes for The Jugular: New Heat Exchange Catheter Gets FDA OK (September 10, 2008)
» Silver Coating Fights Ventilator Related Pneumonia (August 20, 2008)
» Digital Lightbox Brings Minority Report to The OR (No Precognition Capabilities) (August 19, 2008)
» Dräger Rolls Out New Portable Wireless Monitor (August 13, 2008)
» Nasal Cannula Goes High Tech: Precision Flow Gas Delivery Device Gets FDA OK (August 11, 2008)
» Hamilton Introduces a Happier Looking C2 Ventilator (August 7, 2008)
» CX50 Portable Ultrasound from Philips Goes On Sale (August 5, 2008)
» ImaCor's Disposable Transesophageal Echocardiography Probe and System Get FDA OK (July 31, 2008)
» IBM Applies Computing Muscle to Help Premature Babies (July 25, 2008)
» HAMILTON-G5 Ventilator Is a Finalist in 2008 IDEA Awards (July 22, 2008)
» Epocrates Rx Now on iPhone (July 14, 2008)
» CPR pad Assures Correct Compressions (June 20, 2008)
» Draeger Carina Ventilator Gets FDA Approval (June 11, 2008)
» The Third Install in the US of Aquilion ONE CT from Toshiba (May 21, 2008)
» Demand Is High for Brilliance iCT, a 256-Slice CT from Philips (May 19, 2008)
» VENTIlogic Promises Intelligent Home Ventilation (April 21, 2008)
» World's First Bluetooth Pulse Oximeter (April 10, 2008)
» Philips HD7 (April 9, 2008)
» Portable Vents from Versamed, Now Part of GE Healthcare (March 28, 2008)
» Bioartificial Renal Assist Device Reduces Risk of Death from Acute Kidney Injury (March 19, 2008)
» ThermoSuit Studied as an Adjunct Treatment for MI (March 12, 2008)
» Pulse!! BreakAway's Educational Game (March 11, 2008)
» FloWave 1000 Monitor Promises Noninvasive Cardiac Output (March 7, 2008)
» Fabric-based Electrodes for a More Comfortable ECG Experience (February 27, 2008)
» Microsoft Unveils Tool to Track Hospital Infections (February 25, 2008)
» DRE Envoy PDM (Patient Data Management) Wireless Monitor System (February 14, 2008)
» Hologram-Based Sensors from Smart Holograms (February 4, 2008)
» OrNim's Targeted Oximetry (January 30, 2008)
» z.one ultra System (January 25, 2008)
» Reliant® Noninvasive Cardiac Output Monitor Gets FDA OK (January 24, 2008)
» First Quick MRSA Test Approved (January 11, 2008)
» In the Works: Light-guided Transluminal Catheter (December 6, 2007)
» Somatom Definition AS: The World's First Adaptive Computed Tomograph (December 6, 2007)
» New Manual for Emergency Ultrasound (December 3, 2007)
» Acuson P50 Portable Ultrasound System from Siemens (November 28, 2007)
» Xario XG Ultrasound from Toshiba (November 27, 2007)
» Reflectance Pulse Oximetry from SPO Medical (November 19, 2007)
» CardiAid Defibrillator (November 14, 2007)
» VaproSure™ Room Sterilizer Fights MRSA Like There Is No Tomorrow (November 14, 2007)
» CPRGlove™ Making Inroads (November 5, 2007)
» A Wireless ECG Patch (October 31, 2007)
» SonoSite S-ICU™ Ultrasound Tool (October 22, 2007)
» The RadLyn Stylet (October 17, 2007)
» USCOM Non-Invasive Cardiac Output Monitor (October 17, 2007)
» Prefense™ Early Detection and Notification System™ (October 17, 2007)
» Masimo Patient SafetyNet (October 17, 2007)
» The Tongue Sucker (October 8, 2007)
» LUCAS™ Chest Compression System Offers a New CPR Experience (October 8, 2007)
» M-Turbo™: New Portable Ultrasound from SonoSite (October 2, 2007)
» ThermoSuit, a Hypothermia Water Immersion System, Approved in the EU (September 19, 2007)
» Scientists Develop Better Gauging of Brain Blood Flows (September 12, 2007)
» New CPR Technique Advocated: An Abdominal Approach (September 7, 2007)
» Cell Phones in Hospitals Debate Update (September 6, 2007)
» CytoSorb™ Hemoperfusion Device for Sepsis (July 30, 2007)
» Noninvasive Pneumothorax Detector (July 10, 2007)
» ACUSON P10: An Ultrasound System That Fits in a Pocket (June 25, 2007)
» Arm Your Local Medical Militia with Double Action Dragon Drug Guns (June 14, 2007)
» The endogo® Portable Endoscopic Camera (June 8, 2007)
» Bioacoustic Sensor for Respiration Monitoring (May 21, 2007)
» Tru-MR™ MR Conditional Laryngoscopes (March 13, 2007)
» BabySim for Infant Emergencies (March 12, 2007)
» CPR Glove A Potential Lifesaver (February 14, 2007)
» Non-Invasive Preemptive Sepsis Monitor for the Smallest Patients (February 12, 2007)
» ActiveCare DVT®: Goes with Patient; Goes to Cleveland (December 27, 2006)
» Cool-Cap System Gets FDA Nod (December 21, 2006)
» ThermoTube for the Navy (December 18, 2006)
» Clear and Disposable: A New Laryngoscope from Pentax (December 4, 2006)
» Hospital Care, Ferrari Style (November 17, 2006)
» ZOLL R Series Defibrillator for Hospitals (November 13, 2006)
» Cook Airway Exchange Catheter with Soft Tip (November 8, 2006)
» Double-Lumen Thal-Quick Chest Tube (October 24, 2006)
» OxyView™ (October 11, 2006)
» Medwave's Fusion™ and Primo® (September 22, 2006)
» The Arctic Sun® (September 13, 2006)
» The Ppups: Plug and Play Ultrasound Probe System (May 25, 2006)
» The PremaCare Neonatal Incubator (May 15, 2006)
» The Plasmer™ (May 11, 2006)
» The CereTom™ Mobile CT Scanner (April 28, 2006)
» The Delphi IVantage™ Infusion Pump (April 27, 2006)
» Scan2Knit (April 19, 2006)
» The Medfusion™ 3500 Syringe Pump (April 10, 2006)
» Handheld "Vein Finder" for Faster, More Accurate IVs (January 18, 2006)
» MONSTIR: Imaging the Neonatal Brain (December 28, 2005)
» Q-CPR™ Measurement and Feedback Talking Tool (December 2, 2005)
» ResQPOD Circulatory Enhancer® (December 2, 2005)
» The DynaTherm Technology (November 21, 2005)
» Anesthesiology Group: No Widespread Use of Brain Devices Needed (October 27, 2005)
» Wrist Sensor by ETC (July 14, 2005)
» Zombie Dogs, or Hypoxic Journalism? (July 5, 2005)
» The Sunshine Heart C-Pulse (May 23, 2005)
» Babysim (May 20, 2005)
» IntelliVue Telemetry System (May 17, 2005)
» Non-pacing Electric Stimulation for Heart Failure (April 19, 2005)
» The EKG, Untangled (April 12, 2005)
» Vasotrac Non-Invasive Blood Pressure Monitor (March 9, 2005)
» NxStage System One Portable Dialysis (March 8, 2005)
» PARI TREK ™ Compact Compressor (March 7, 2005)
» Powerheart external defibrillators (February 14, 2005)
» The GluMetrics technology (February 14, 2005)
» The quality of a CPR device (February 4, 2005)
» OxyALERT (February 2, 2005)
» Bioartificial kidney under study (February 1, 2005)
» New Linear ™ 7.5 Fr. Intra-Aortic Balloon (January 11, 2005)
» AutoPulse Resuscitation System (January 4, 2005)
» Visicu eICU (December 30, 2004)
