Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Feabsorption Laser Induced Fluorescence Helps Image Ear Canal in 3D
Custom fitting hearing aids to individual ears is subject to imperfection. In the process, it is possible to cause damage to the ear canal because of the silicon mold making process that is currently used. Now research out of MIT has led to a new digitizing tool that can scan and create excellent 3D reconstructions of the insides of a person's ear.
MIT Technology Review reports:
Hart developed the new scanning technique "completely by accident" while experimenting with emission reabsorption laser induced fluorescence (ERLIF) as a way to measure the film thickness of engine oils, in order to understand oil consumption and engine wear. In the process, he figured out that he was getting very accurate 3-D measurements of the films. "It's so accurate," he says, "you can measure anything in 3-D."ERLIF works on the principle that light is scattered differently depending on the depth of a liquid. Hart uses a fiber-optic camera inserted into the ear and wrapped by a liquid-filled balloon that expands to conform to the ear's shape. Measuring the light absorption of dyes in both the liquid and the balloon yields an exact 3-D picture of the ear's shape and dimensions.
More from MIT Technology Review...
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Friday, June 19, 2009
SomnoDent MAS Helps Open Airway for OSA
SomnoMed out of Crows Nest, Australia has been showing off its SomnoDent MAS device for obstructive sleep apnea at Sleep 2009 in Seattle this week. Worn while sleeping, the MAS is two custom shaped acrylic plates connected to each other, that are fitted over the teeth by a dentist, that force the lower jaw a bit forward. In other words, the device delivers what anesthesiologists call the "Jaw Thrust."
Features:
A streamlined design with minimal bulk, which maximizes the size of the lingual space and reduces gagging. An excellent fit in both upper and lower arches. The unique design provides anterior and posterior contact, which provides a stable occlusion and prevents tooth movement and minimises termpero-mandibular joint discomfort and injury caused by bruxing. The MAS is constructed in two separate pieces that allow patients to open and close their mouths. This allows clear speech, yawning and drinking without requiring the patient to remove the appliance. The ability to communicate clearly while wearing the device is particularly appreciated by patients and their partners. The small form factor of the MAS and absence of anterior retaining mechanism helps patients sleep with their mouths closed. This minimises excessive salivation, dribbling, dry mouth and other common side-effects from wearing oral appliances. The high-quality fit of the SomnoDent® MAS provides excellent levels of retention and ensures that there is limited to no damage to existing teeth, crowns or bridgework. Additionally, patients can titrate the device (if required) and it is easy to clean and disinfect. While it is exceptionally durable, its acrylic construction allows it to be easily repaired. The device is titratable and allows for each individual patient's optimal protrusion position to be found. One that is both effective and comfortable to the patient.
Product page: SomnoDent® MAS
(hat tip: ProactiveInvestors)
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Thursday, May 14, 2009
Digital Subtraction Angiography on a Single Image
Analyzing angiography sequences typically requires viewing a series of black and white images and noticing the differences the contrast medium created as it passed through the obstructions in the vessels. To help with visualization and to improve diagnosis, Siemens is releasing a new digital subtraction angiography (DSA) software, the syngo iFlow, that automates the process to produce a color image highlighting the path of the contrast medium.
From a Siemens press statement:
The syngo iFlow application, for example, can be used to enhance pre-procedural and post-procedural imaging of patients under treatment for leg stenosis. Flow deviations and the increased utilization of collaterals can more easily be detected prior to intervention, since anomalies more readily attract the physician's attention due to their specific colors. Following the intervention, the success of a balloon dilatation or stent implantation of a stenosis is readily visible due to the improved flow.In order to obtain a color image, syngo iFlow takes the time to maximum opacification of each individual pixel, starting with the injection and subsequently visualizing the distribution of the contrast medium through the vessels. These time measurements are then represented by a color allowing visualization of the complete vessel tree in one image.
Press release: Siemens sets a new standard in subtraction angiography
Product brochure: syngo iFlow (PDF)
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Wednesday, May 13, 2009
BrainLab's Digital Lightbox Getting an Upgrade
BrainLab AG is planning on releasing an updated version of its Digital Lightbox multitouch clinical display. Still reminding us of a giant iPhone, the unit interfaces with EMRs to display and manipulate clinical images easily and intuitively, essentially making the keyboard or any other interface device unnecessary.
Here's what the company tells Medgadget about the new features in the latest release of the Digital Lightbox scheduled for this summer:
The new Video-input feature allows the integration of data on the Digital Lightbox, when it is located in the OR, from sources like micro-, endo- and arthroscopes; and video signals can be streamed from the OR and displayed on the Digital Lightbox when it is positioned in surgeons' offices or meeting rooms. This feature extends the range of application into new medical subspecialties, strengthening the value of Digital Lightbox as a core multi-disciplinary platform for hospital information networks.When version 1.0 came to the market, a number of customers wanted the Digital Lightbox in rooms dedicated for teaching, patient education, tumor boards and internal meetings. The new External Display-out feature makes it possible to connect the Digital Lightbox to one or more additional displays or projectors, in or outside the room. This makes it more versatile for use in situations when large groups of medical experts come together and the even the 30" display of the Digital Lightbox isn't big enough.
Digital Lightbox also serves as the viewing display and remote control for VectorVision flex, combining an image-guided surgery platform with large-scale viewing, and fast data access and manipulation.
Here's a company video demonstrating the system:
Product page: Digital Lightbox
Flashback: Digital Lightbox Brings Minority Report to The OR (No Precognition Capabilities)
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Wednesday, April 29, 2009
New Brachytherapy Set for Better Dose Deliverance to Patients
Varian Medical Systems has introduced a new bronchoscopic brachytherapy applicator set, the Centering Intraluminal Applicator™, that the company says will increase treatment precision and aid comfort for patients suffering from bronchial cancer.
According to the press release, the new system features a novel catheter that enables a centered position of the source in the lumen of the trachea or the bronchus, all the while maintaining an open airway for better ventilation. This 3-centering catheter is designed such that it can be partially or fully extended, thus allowing for a variety of conformations to adapt to each patients unique anatomy.
"This new applicator set helps clinicians to optimize the dose distribution thanks to its ability to center the source at the middle of the bronchial lumen," says Claudia Andres-Zindler, brachytherapy applicator product manager. "Crucially, it also allows the patient to breathe unaided during treatment."
Features of the Centering Intralumninal Applicator™ include:
X-ray contrast strip to display the longitudinal axis and the spreading of the baskets. Seldinger guide wire to insert and guide the centering catheter with the baskets into the desired position. 4.7 French catheter with a diameter of 1.59 mm for the source transfer.
Press release : Varian Introduces Brachytherapy Applicator Set to Optimize Precision and Comfort of Bronchial Cancer Treatments...
Varian Medical Systems - Brachytherapy...
Flashback : TargetScan Aims for Precise Brachytherapy
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Thursday, April 9, 2009
Provent Nose Plugs Win Medical Design Award
Ventus Medical Inc. out of Belmont, California won a prize in the Rehabilitation and Assistive-Technology Products category in this year's Medical Design Excellence Awards. The company markets novel nose plugs that help those suffering from obstructive sleep apnea sleep better. By using a valve to increase intranasal pressure when breathing out, clinical studies have shown that patients can use the devices all night for much relief.
Provent™ Professional Sleep Apnea Therapy is a removable nasal appliance placed just inside the nostrils and held in place by adhesive tape. The Provent nasal appliance increases resistance to breathing out (expiration or exhalation) by directing exhaled breath through small holes. The expiratory resistance created by the Provent nasal appliance helps maintain an open airway during sleep.In clinical studies, the Provent nasal appliance has been shown to help patients with obstructive sleep apnea
(OSA) reduce the number of breathing interruptions (apneas and hypopneas) during the night as compared to when the patients slept without the appliance.The Provent nasal appliance is a prescription-only device and should be used only after consultation with a
licensed healthcare professional.
Product page: PROVENT™ Professional Sleep Apnea Therapy ...
Press release: 32 Innovative Products Win Medical Design Excellence Awards...
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Monday, April 6, 2009
Oticon Introduces New Hearing Products
Oticon, out Somerset, New Jersey, last week released a new set of hearing products, including two new lines of hearing aids and a system to wirelessly listen to music, television, or speak over the phone with much ease. The ConnectLine wireless system features Bluetooth connectivity to send digital audio straight to the hearing aids, be it coming from a television or a phone plugged into the transmitter box.
ConnectLine is the only system that connects wirelessly and seamlessly to TV and landline phones enabling effortless transitions between functions with just the push of a button on the hearing instruments’ companion device, Streamer. The new “plug and play” ConnectLine TV Adaptor and ConnectLine Phone Adaptor complement and optimize the wireless capabilities of Oticon’s premium RISE-based Dual and Epoq hearing solutions.The small and attractive ConnectLine TV Adaptor connects to the audio output of any TV. It has a range of up to 30 feet and runs on its own power supply. Users enjoy high quality audio streaming binaurally through their hearing instruments – listening at their own preferred volume and without the latency delay experienced with off-the-shelf Bluetooth transmitters. There is no need to recharge the ConnectLine TV Adaptor and there are no additional gadgets or loop installations required. After an initial pairing with the Streamer device, the ConnectLine connects automatically whenever the Streamer is activated.
ConnectLine Phone Adaptor turns any landline phone into a cordless Bluetooth phone. The ConnectLine Phone Adaptor can be especially beneficial for seniors who want to continue using their current landline phone. Users simply press the phone button on the Streamer to pick-up or end the call. The ConnectLine Phone Adaptor does not interfere with the ability of other household members to use the landline phone as usual. Users can connect to a landline or cell phone with the same Streamer. The Streamer pairs with up to eight devices.
The Mini Power BTE significantly expands fitting potential for moderately to severely hearing impaired people with a range of small, robust, 13 Battery solutions. Available across the company’s Epoq, Vigo and Hit product families. The compact mini power solutions feature FM compatibility, long battery life and an array of features and price points.The Epoq XW, W and V Mini Power BTE Power solutions feature advanced wireless capabilities and extended 10 kHz bandwidth for enhanced performance in the most difficult listening situations. The state-of-the-art Spatial Sound compression system helps to maintain the naturally occurring interaural difference between the signals arriving at the two ears, a key to a user’s ability to localize sound.
With the addition of the Bluetooth Streamer, Epoq Power solutions connect wirelessly to Bluetooth-enabled communication and entertainment devices including landline and cell phones, televisions, MP3 players, personal computers, laptops and radios. Sound is streamed wirelessly from the Bluetooth devices to the user’s hearing devices.
This two-ear advantage is further enhanced with the new ConnectLine™ Phone Adapter that makes any landline phone Bluetooth-compatible. The ConnectLine™ TV Adapter allows users to understand television at a volume that works for them anywhere in the room without disturbing other viewers.
Vigo Pro and Vigo Mini Power BTEs deliver an unsurpassed combination of style, features and performance in a mid-priced hearing solution. The Hit Pro and Hit Mini Power BTEs offer cost-conscious users who require higher amplification straightforward solutions that combine design, size, performance, handling capabilities and value.
The new Mini Power BTEs are fully compatible with a range of FM solutions including the sleek Amigo R12 FM receiver, the Oticon FM 9 adapter and the slim DAI adapter AP 900.
The compact mini power solutions feature a 13 battery for longer battery life and comfort without compromising the hearing solution’s sleek, aesthetic appeal.
The Hit family’s two product lines, Hit and Hit Pro, round off Oticon’s portfolio of modern, discreet and great sounding hearing solutions based on the company’s industry-leading RISE platform. With a selection of features normally found in far more expensive hearing devices, Hit and Hit Pro are solid choices for new and experienced users looking for high quality entry-level hearing solutions.Hit and Hit Pro give hearing care professionals reliable and affordable hearing solutions with all of the model choices needed to fit mild to severe-to-profound hearing losses up to 105 dB HL. The sophisticated RISE platform gives Hit and Hit Pro the highest bandwidth (8kHz) of any entry-level hearing device, for unmatched sound quality as well as such highly desired features as outcome based automatic decision making, adaptive directionality, noise management and dynamic feedback cancellation.
Both Hit and Hit Pro offer the largest selection of styles of any entry level hearing instrument – from tiny RITE and CIC to Power BTE hearing aids with size 312 and 13 battery options. Open fittings are available as RITE style or as Corda 2 thintube adaptors. Available in ten vibrant colors for BTE and RITE, Hit is available beginning April 1.
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Thursday, April 2, 2009
Starkey S Series Hearing Aids with Drive Architecture Processing
Starkey Laboratories (Eden Prairie, MN) is introducing a new series of hearing aids that promise higher fidelity and smart behavior in different audio situations. Featuring parallel multi-threading processors, the system can calculate specialized algorithms to a greater degree of precision, leading to better sound quality.
PureWave Feedback Eliminator, delivering broader bandwidth, faster processing and intelligent artifact elimination to ensure patients get the best possible performance in every listening environment. S Series models offer up to 25dB of added stable gain for the highest broadband gain margin in the industry.
- Acoustic Scene Analyzer (ASA) is Starkey’s newest integrated system for managing noise and preserving speech recognition that instantly classifies incoming signals based on unique acoustic characteristics. ASA seamlessly selects and implements the most appropriate algorithms individually or collectively, providing the best possible acoustic response at every moment in time. This results in the highest level of patient comfort and
clarity in noise, while emphasizing speech preservation.
- InVision Directionality is designed to perform best in highly complex backgrounds of noise. The industry-leading system boasts the highest DI scores and lowest operational noise floor, helping patients significantly increase their speech understanding in noise.
- AudioScape is Starkey’s new acoustic pattern recognition system that uses patented real-time environment detection and classification to adapt to any listening environment by seamlessly adjusting to a patient’s preferred settings. A channel-specific signal-tonoise ratio calculation ensures that speech is always given the priority.
- Automatic Telephone Solutions (ATS) automatically detects telephone usage and adjusts to the optimal acoustic frequency response for telephone listening.
- T2 (touch-tone) allows your patients to control their hearing aids using any cell or touchtone phone, avoiding the need to carry additional hardware. T2 discreetly and instantly classifies the touch-tone signal and automatically adjusts.When fit open, S Series has the widest fitting range and usable high-frequency bandwidth of any open fit instrument in its class. The line also includes the new S Series AP (Absolute Power), a patientproven RIC that offers between 60 and 71dB of peak gain, making it the best performing and most powerful RIC on the market. Even patients with severe hearing loss can enjoy the discreet style, design and comfort of a RIC without sacrificing power and performance.
Press release: Starkey Introduces the Next Generation of Hearing Aids: S Series with Drive Architecture
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Thursday, March 19, 2009
Cardinal's Endura Scrubs for the Modern Clinician
Cardinal Health is releasing a new line of clinical scrubs that the company believes will make your life safer, easier, and more comfortable. The big deal about Cardinal's Endura™ apparel line is the specialty fabric used, which is supposedly stronger and more breathable.
Some features from the product page:
Excess moisture is wicked away from your skin to keep you dry and cool, no matter what you’re doing.Scrubs shouldn't leave you feeling restricted or confined. Endura™ scrubs move with your body and help maximize your gait and pace. In addition, the Maximum-Motion™ sleeve allows your shirt to stay tucked in even when you reach and stretch.
Our advanced, synthetic material is breathable, flexible and helps control your heat index and perspiration.
Our scrubs offer a shirt pocket and two side flanking pant pockets to tuck away the important things you want to keep close. The deep side pockets in our pants are angled to keep items in, whether you're sitting or standing.
The smooth fabric of Endura™ scrubs feels natural and soft on the skin.
People aren’t rectangular. So instead of making our scrubs rectangular, we looked at the actual dimensions of thousands of healthcare workers. The cut of our scrubs follows the natural line of your body and gets rid of the bulky feel and appearance of traditional scrubs.
A unique snap system allows you to customize pants length and avoid tripping, falling or slipping. Elastic on the waistband, in addition to a drawstring, helps position pants where you want them.
Strategically placed ventilation zones across the middle of the back and behind the knee keep you dry and comfortable.
Even after 90 washes, EnduraT scrubs are still going strong. Stronger than a brand-new pair of the top-selling traditional scrubs, in fact*. You'll also notice minimal color loss and lasting moisture-wicking abilities. The competitor's scrubs, on the other hand, typically only last 50 washes.
The top-selling traditional scrubs lose 15% lint when abraded. EnduraT scrubs lose only 1.4%, making them the lowest linting scrub on the market.
Made of the strongest material on the market, EnduraT scrubs outlast the competition. Our advanced, synthetic material is abrasion- and tear-resistant and has the most uniform strength in both directions.
EnduraT scrubs can be washed at cooler temperatures and dry faster than traditional scrubs. This requires less energy and can result in savings to your hospital.
Product page: Endura™ Performance Apparel
Press release: Cardinal Health launches new products for the operating room
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Monday, March 16, 2009
Apnex Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation for OSA
We recently reported on an implantable nerve stimulator from Inspire Medical Systems that aims to help people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). During sleep the system monitors one's breathing and stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to help open muscles in the upper airway, to keep it open. We now learn that Apnex Medical out of St. Paul, Minnesota is conducting a clinical trial of a competing product, the Apnex Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (HGNS™) System.
Here's how the Apnex system works from the company's technology page:
Implanted Components The Neurostimulator is implanted in a subcutaneous pocket inferior to the clavicle over the pectoralis fascia. A nerve cuff electrode on the distal end of the Stimulation Lead is implanted on a branch of the hypoglossal nerve (HGN) in the submandibular region. The proximal end of the Stimulation Lead is tunneled under the skin to the Neurostimulator. The Respiration Sensing Leads are tunneled under the skin from the Neurostimulator to the costal margins.External Components
The Programmer System and Therapy Controller are wirelessly linked to the Neurostimulator. The Programmer System includes the following components: computer; programmer interface; and programmer head. The programmer system is used by the physician to control and program the Neurostimulator during surgery and therapy titration. The Therapy Controller is used by the patient to control limited aspects of therapy delivery, to meet their unique sleep needs.The Apnex HGNS System is intended to work by restoring neuromuscular activity to the genioglossus muscle by stimulating the hypoglossal nerve synchronous with inspiration to mitigate upper airway collapse during sleep. This is similar to how the body's natural neuromuscular physiology functions in people without OSA. Stimulation is generated by the Neurostimulator, synchronized with inspiration as measured by the Respiration Sensing Leads using bio-impedance, and delivered to the hypoglossal nerve by the Stimulation Lead.
Technology page: Apnex HGNS Therapy
Flashback: Inspire II Implantable Nerve Stimulator for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
(hat tip: Star Tribune)
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Friday, February 27, 2009
Inspire II Implantable Nerve Stimulator for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Inspire Medical Systems, a spin-out of Medtronic, has developed an implantable electronic stimulator for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and now implanted it in a first patient. Because muscles in the upper airway relax more than necessary in some OSA patients, the passage gets blocked and air can't flow repeatedly during sleep. The company's Inspire II System applies an electric current to the hypoglossal nerve at proper times by sensing the pulmonary pressure of the patient. Of note, Inspire Medical has received FDA approval for the device.
More about the device from the product page:
The Inspire II system consists of an implantable pulse generator, a pulmonary pressure sensor and a stimulation lead that delivers the electrical impulses to the patient's hypoglossal nerve. The hypoglossal nerve is the twelfth cranial nerve that is located along the side of the neck and leads to the tongue. The unique closed-loop design of the Inspire II system senses a patient's respiratory effort during sleep and provides hypoglossal nerve stimulation to maintain an open airway synchronous with respiration. Patients have a programming device that is used to turn the device on at bedtime and to turn the unit off during non-sleep periods. The stimulation delivered is sufficient enough to evoke a response from the nerve but at a low enough level to not disturb the patient's sleep. A physician controller unit, used during visits to the patient's treating physician, is used to monitor the therapy and make adjustments to the device as needed for the patient's unique physiology
Press release: Inspire Medical Systems Completes First Implant of the Inspire II System to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea ...
Product page: Inspire II System ...
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Monday, January 5, 2009
EyeSeeCam: See What The Surgeon Sees
Biomed engineers and clinical neurologists at the University of Munich Hospital are working on commercialization of a head mounted camera designed to store and transmit the exclusive point of view of its wearer's eyes. The EyeSeeCam moves along with the pupils of the user, and as such allows "for the first time, to literally see the world through somebody else's eyes." The device will be presented at the upcoming MMVR 17 NextMed conference (Jan 19-22, in Long Beach, CA).
The possibilities for the camera are endless. Here's what its designers think it could be used for:
Health Care and Industry: Documentation, e.g., of Surgery; Teaching and Education; Quality AssuranceNeurology, ENT: Diagnosis of eye movement disorders; Diagnosis of vestibular disorders and vertigo
Movie and Video Making: Documentary and fictional movies; News and Videoart
Security: Quality assurance of special forces training; Documentation by a "third eye"
Sports: Sportsnews; Movie from the Athlete's perspective
(Neuro-) Marketing:Shopping behavior; Advertisement perception; Ergonomy
Research: Studies on attention; "Body language" during conversation
Consumer Applications: Sightseeing; Events
(hat tip: ScienceRoll)
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Amimon's High Definition Wireless Video Goes Clinical
Stryker Endoscopy is launching a wireless high definition monitor for the clinical world. Utilizing wireless technology from Israel's Amimon Inc., the monitor can receive signals up to 1080i, which means uncompromising quality in OR imaging with fewer tangled cables getting in the way.
AMIMON has granted Stryker Endoscopy exclusive access to AMIMON’s technology for the medical endoscopy market.“Only AMIMON’s High-Definition Wireless Technology is capable of transmitting the surgical video with no perceptible lag or interference throughout the entire operating room. This will allow surgeons greater flexibility in positioning the surgical display while operating. In addition, the hospitals and surgery centers will save the hassle and cost of routing DVI cables through the ceilings and overhead booms,” said William Chang, Stryker Endoscopy’s Vice President of Research & Development and Chief Technology Officer.
AMIMON WHDI™ Technology - Overview ...
Globes: Wireless video co Amimon wins deal with Stryker...
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Tuesday, December 16, 2008
New Treatment Tested for Post Combat Tinnitus
Last March we wrote about an innovative audio device that promises to treat tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, that people often contract after experiencing very loud sounds like explosions or techno concerts. Now the U.S. Army is sponsoring a trial to test the Oasis™ from Neuromonics out of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on soldiers returning from some loud combat actions in Afghanistan and Iraq.
From a Neuromonics press release:
The tinnitus study will evaluate the Neuromonics Tinnitus Treatment and counseling for active-duty military servicemembers. Trial sites are expected to include large troop-based military installations. Further study is expected to include technological changes to the tinnitus treatment device, as well as evaluating treatment for specific sub-groups of servicemembers, such as those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury (TBI).The Neuromonics Tinnitus Treatment is currently in use in 30 Veterans Affairs and six Department of Defense medical centers throughout the country. It is a compact, non-invasive medical device that delivers a prescribed acoustic neural stimulus, customized for each patient’s individual audiological profile, and incorporates specially processed, relaxing music. After clinical customization, the patient listens to the device daily for six-plus months.
The stimulus is designed to provide relief and relaxation in the initial phase of treatment, and then progressively over a period of several months, to facilitate desensitization to the tinnitus. In this way, the therapy can help the brain filter out the tinnitus perception, so that it no longer intrudes on the patient’s conscious attention, and no longer has a disturbing impact on quality of life. By targeting the condition’s underlying neurological basis, Neuromonics may offer enhanced effectiveness for patients compared to alternatives.
Press release: Neuromonics Awarded $1 Million to Conduct Army Tinnitus Study
Product page: Oasis™ Device
Flashback: Digital Audio Used for Treatment of Tinnitus
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Friday, November 21, 2008
TruSystem 7500: New OR Table from TRUMPF
Thanks to its modular design, this new OR table from TRUMPF can accommodate almost all known surgical positions, and can provide an optimal operating environment for all kinds of cases, from hip pinnings to robotic prostatectomies.
In surgery, no operation is identical to another. So it's not just surgeons and staff who need to be flexible – that requirement applies to OR tables as well. For the TruSystem 7500 OR table system, TRUMPF offers universal OR tabletops with a variety of application options, and special OR tabletops for specific requirements. Depending on the desired application and budget, from an extensive product line users can put together the precise OR table that fits their individual needs.TruSystem 7500 is consistently designed to simplify the everyday clinical work of physicians and staff, and to support them in their daily tasks. OR tabletops with up to three motorised joint pairs make it possible to use remote controls to position the patient quickly, safety and precisely. Manual adjustments to the tabletop are reduced. Staff can program the adjustment speed of all tabletop motors as needed. To return to the zero position, all motors in the tabletop work simultaneously, saving time.
A novel feature is the third motorised joint pair between the lower and upper back plates, which enables new positioning options. For thoracic surgeries, for instance, the patient's ribcage can be stretched precisely to the desired degree by pushing a button, so it can be opened more easily. Complicated positions, such as the side thorax position, can be assumed quickly, precisely and conveniently for both patient and staff. The patient also benefits from ergonomic, safe positioning, since the lengths of the individual tabletop segments correspond to the average distances between joints in the human anatomy.
TruSystem 7500 has universal coupling points, which have proven their worth in other TRUMPF OR tables. This latest OR table system is thus compatible with the entire TRUMPF accessory line, as well as with all other TRUMPF OR tables. The mechanically encoded coupling points prevent disallowed configurations of the table. Thus new and existing customers can quickly familiarise themselves with operation of the table. Moreover, they benefit from the option of combined use with predecessor models, and thus from the safety of investment in TRUMPF products. This philosophy permeates the entire TRUMPF medical technology portfolio.
One special feature of the “ST 26” special OR tabletop: First, the Trendelenburg capability is split between the column and the top. Besides the 45 degrees offered by the column, the tabletop can be adjusted by another 20 degrees. With the TruSystem 7500, therefore, an extremely low head or foot position of 65 degrees can be achieved. If the user doesn't need this additional functionality, less expensive universal OR tabletops can be selected.Special TRUMPF positioning accessories can be mounted on the TruSystem 7500 tabletops at any time. A spinal column positioning assembly, an extension unit or carbon elements for intraoperative X-ray diagnosis, for instance, make this jack-of-all-trades a specialist in just moments.
Check out all the available positions and accessories in this product brochure...
Product page: TruSystem 7500...
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Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Medical Device With Own Online Simulator
Cook Medical, in order to provide clinicians with basic training on using the company's Ciaglia Blue Dolphin Balloon Percutaneous Tracheostomy Introducer, created a follow-along online simulator of the procedure.
Product page: Ciaglia Blue Dolphin ...
Flashback: Blue Dolphin Dives into Trachea
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Thursday, October 30, 2008
Blue Dolphin Dives into Trachea
Cook Medical is releasing its Ciaglia Blue Dolphin device for an elective percutaneous dilational tracheostomy (PDT), which combines balloon dilation and tracheal tube insertion into one step and promises easier and safer delivery.
From the press release:
The balloon minimizes pressure on the anterior tracheal wall and delivers an even and controlled radial dilation. This significantly reduces the downward force needed to create a tracheal stoma compared to traditional PDTs. Additionally, the device may minimize bleeding, ring fractures and posterior wall perforations by eliminating the need for a dilator to advance back and forth in the trachea, and by limiting soft tissue dissection to a simple skin incision. Due to the "elastic memory" of tissue, the stoma tightly contracts around the tracheostomy tube once the procedure is complete, providing the needed seal and tamponade effect to help prevent bleeding.
From the product page:
The set consists of a balloon-tipped catheter loading dilator assembly; Cook inflation device; wire guide; 18-gage introducer needle; 18-gage TFE sheath needle; needle holder cup; 14 French dilator; large full-body drape with clear plastic window; gauze pads; disposable syringe; measuring tape; disposable safety scalpel; and lubricating jelly. A separate, sterile tracheostomy tube is also included in an optional set.The tray contains the set components and other items necessary for a bedside procedure, including lidocaine; 22-, 25-, and 18-gage needles; double swivel connector; Chlorhexidine/alcohol prep solution; suture with needle; CSR wrap; and prep tray. A separate, sterile tracheostomy tube is also included in an optional tray.
Press release: Cook Medical Introduces Ciaglia Blue Dolphin™ Percutaneous Dilational Tracheostomy Device...
Product page: Ciaglia Blue Dolphin...
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Friday, October 24, 2008
Innovative Hearing Aid from Starkey Labs Takes Awards
The Zon Hearing Aid by Los Angeles industrial designer Stuart Karten for Eden Prairie, MN-based Starkey Laboratories has been honored with two prestigious design awards: the People's Design Award, presented by the Smithsonian's Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum, as well as Spark Design Award.
Developed with Starkey’s evidence-based design approach, Zōn blends world-class technology with beautiful design, ultimately providing high levels of acceptance and satisfaction for patients. Built out of moisture-resistant material, Zōn was designed to minimize the number of touchpoints on wearers’ skin with a curved, elegant shape. Even the color options were carefully considered; Starkey worked with respected cosmetics researchers to develop the sophisticated hair and skin-tone color palette, designed to complement and match natural skin tones and hair.Zōn looks great on the outside, but it also provides best-in-class performance through the cutting-edge technology inside. Harnessing the power of BluWaveTM Signal Processing, Zōn virtually eliminates feedback with Active Feedback Intercept (AFI) and delivers the best performing directional system on the market with Directional Speech Detector (DSD), which boasts industry-leading free-field and KEMAR DIs and the lowest operational noise floor available, making speech more audible in difficult listening situations. Additionally, hearing care professionals can quickly and accurately conduct real-ear measurements with Integrated Real Ear Measurement (IREM). IREM provides the most precise fit possible, helping professionals counsel patients, reducing the number of adjustments needed for a comfortable fit and better addressing the challenges hearing aid users are facing in their environments.
Spark is a design competition focusing on change – specifically change for the better. The competition considers criteria including sustainability, suitability, context, inventiveness, process, universality and beauty. The Spark Design Awards are intended to encourage people to experience design in new ways and improve our world. Designers, art directors, ad agencies, manufacturers and other creative people and institutions have the opportunity to submit work for the Spark Design Awards.
Product brochure is here...
Product page: Zōn Series...
Press releases: Starkey Laboratories Wins Spark Design Award for Zōn™ (.pdf); Zon Hearing Aid Wins the 2008 People's Design Award...
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Tuesday, September 30, 2008
A CRIC In The Neck!
Here's an interesting product we haven't seen before. The Complete Rapid Illuminated Cricothyrotomy (CRIC) Kit is the latest life-saving medical product from Canadian company Pyng Medical, the developers of FAST1® Intraosseous Infusion System, that we profiled yesterday. Although FDA approval is pending, the new CRIC Kit is expected to provide significant improvements in speed, efficacy and safety to the life-saving medical procedure of cricothyrotomy.
The CRIC Kit is being developed with support from the US Department of Defense (DOD) for the purpose of equipping US military medics and physicians. Currently, cricothyrotomy requires the use of at least three distinct medical instruments: scalpel, retractor, insertion tube, and in many cases, a light source. This can be difficult enough to manage in a modern ER, not to mention the extreme conditions that exist on the battlefield, where an obstructed airway is the second leading cause of death (after exsanguination).
CRIC Cricothyrotomy Kit product page and instructions...
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» The BeamPath NEURO System: First Flexible CO2 Laser Scalpel (September 23, 2008)
» Tools That Bend So You Don't Have To (September 19, 2008)
» Hearing Aid "Grows" With Child (September 16, 2008)
» Brain Stem Meets MARVEL (September 15, 2008)
» Force-feedback Offerings from Haption (July 28, 2008)
» Don't Want to Get Lost in Sinuses? Use Your iNtellect (July 17, 2008)
» Sialo Dilatation Balloons Given Green Light in US (May 20, 2008)
» More Good News for The Baha System, a Bone Anchored (Osseointegrated) Implant (April 29, 2008)
» FDA Clears ENTity NasoView (April 23, 2008)
» DUET Electric-Acoustic Hybrid Hearing Aid Undergoing US Trials (April 17, 2008)
» Lyric Hearing Aid (April 15, 2008)
» Micropressure as Treatment of Meniere's Disease (April 10, 2008)
» Digital Audio Used for Treatment of Tinnitus (March 5, 2008)
» What Drives the NeuroArm (February 22, 2008)
» Leica M720 OH5: Another Premium to Be a Neurosurgeon (February 22, 2008)
» Eardoc Offers Drug-free, Noninvasive Ear Pain Relief (Supposedly) (February 12, 2008)
» Welch Allyn Introduces Digital MacroView Otoscope (February 6, 2008)
» OTOPod Wireless Diagnostic Audiometer (January 22, 2008)
» Somatom Definition AS: The World's First Adaptive Computed Tomograph (December 6, 2007)
» New Surgical Instruments from KLS Martin Group (November 26, 2007)
» New Hearing Mechanism Discovered (October 11, 2007)
» Sony's Versatile HD Med Monitor (October 5, 2007)
» Pillar Implants Trialed with CPAP Mask (September 17, 2007)
» Vision Sciences' Video Endoscopes Approved by FDA (September 12, 2007)
» Hearing from Inside: The Latest on Otologics Prosthesis (August 29, 2007)
» The Mysterious $50,000 Hearing Aid (August 27, 2007)
» Multichannel Vestibular Prosthesis Shows Promise (August 22, 2007)
» Audio Aids High on Visual Aesthetic (August 13, 2007)
» Fixing Hearing With Light (August 10, 2007)
» Meniett: Accepted, Yet... (August 9, 2007)
» Slide-On™ Sensory Sheath for ENT (June 29, 2007)
» Replacing the Vestibular System With a Chip (June 12, 2007)
» Auditory Nerve Implant Promises Better Hearing (June 8, 2007)
» The endogo® Portable Endoscopic Camera (June 8, 2007)
» Binaural Bluetooth Headset 100x Faster than Traditional Hearing Aids (June 4, 2007)
» NoseFrida: The Nose-Snot Eater (May 21, 2007)
» Wirear Brings Sexy Back to Hearing Aids (May 18, 2007)
» Amplitude T-Series Audiometer (May 7, 2007)
» CereTom™ OTOscan for ENT (April 30, 2007)
» Robotic Micro-Drill Used Clinically (April 2, 2007)
» Earscope update and video! (March 16, 2007)
» EarCheck Middle Ear Monitor (March 13, 2007)
» Ear Probe Fetish Reaches New Heights (March 5, 2007)
» Expanded Endonasal Approach is Safe and Efffective in Peds (February 22, 2007)
» Bass vs. Treble: Low-Pitched Cure for Tinnitus? (February 16, 2007)
» Two Cochlear Implants Better Than One (February 14, 2007)
» CoCo Nose Clamp (October 26, 2006)
» Harmony™ HiResolution® Bionic Ear System (September 27, 2006)
» Otologics' Fully Implantable Hearing Device (September 6, 2006)
» Earworm: A Symphony Borne of Science (July 20, 2006)
» The Centra™: World's First Trainable Hearing Aid (June 14, 2006)
» Balloon Sinuplasty (TM) for Sinusitis (May 31, 2006)
» Balloon Sinuplasty: Investigational Surgery at a Clinic Near You (May 5, 2006)
» The CereTom™ Mobile CT Scanner (April 28, 2006)
» The VELScope (April 13, 2006)
» Varibel, The Glasses That Hear (April 10, 2006)
» Mimikaki: Ritualized Ear Wax Removal (March 28, 2006)
» Wideband Middle Ear Power Analyzer (February 27, 2006)
» New Cochlear Implant Could Improve Hearing (February 9, 2006)
» The microSavia (February 6, 2006)
» The SolarAid (January 23, 2006)
» Super Soaker Used as Ear Syringe (January 11, 2006)
» Fonar 360°™: A Room-Size MR Scanner (November 14, 2005)
» The Hydromechanical Cochlea (November 9, 2005)
» Prevent Oral Cancer With Mouthwash (November 8, 2005)
» First Contact with a Universal Translator (October 31, 2005)
» The Sunderland Air Pressure Meter (October 18, 2005)
» The EarPopper, for Popping Ears (September 20, 2005)
» Cochlear Implants: Any Ear Will Do (September 6, 2005)
» MED-EL Corporation's new Cochlear Implant System (August 31, 2005)
» New System To Treat Middle Ear Problems (August 1, 2005)
» Hearwear -- The Future of Hearing (July 27, 2005)
» Novalis® Shaped Beam Surgery (June 27, 2005)
» Nucleus® Freedom™ with SmartSound (May 2, 2005)
» ACURIS System with e2e Wireless Technology (March 30, 2005)
» PK Technology by Gyrus Group (March 29, 2005)
» Medi Pack by Karl Storz (March 23, 2005)
» ETView ETT (March 7, 2005)
» Integrity from Vivosonic: a wireless hearing-assessment system (February 8, 2005)
» Palatal Implant System (January 28, 2005)
» Otogram (January 26, 2005)
» Pocket Hearo LE (January 19, 2005)
» Cochlear Implant by Advanced Bionics (December 27, 2004)
