Software solution from Ziehm Imaging optimizes mobile imaging workflow and delivers results in just a few steps

Nuremberg, November 29, 2010 – Ziehm Imaging's intuitive SmartVascular software considerably simplifies imaging in vascular surgery. It introduces an entirely new workflow for fast results. This solution raises efficiency levels, eliminates interim C-arm operating steps and automates the imaging processes. SmartVascular is compatible with all Ziehm Vision C-arms and tailored to vascular procedures.

Thanks to modern imaging technology, even the most demanding vascular operations can now be performed using low impact, minimally invasive techniques. In addition to preoperative imaging, real-time intraoperative images of vascular structures are playing an increasingly important role here. As a leading manufacturer of innovative C-arms, Ziehm Imaging has been supporting vascular surgeons for many years with a range of products delivering high-precision image data during interventions. Now Ziehm Imaging has launched SmartVascular, an easy-to-use software solution that enables vascular surgeons to quickly postprocess X-ray images that support decision-making during minimally invasive procedures.

Surgeons can use the software to create a digital subtraction angiography at any time during an operation without having to use the touchscreen as an interface. SmartVascular automates all MSA and RSA process steps, allowing complex vascular procedures to be planned and performed with minimum amounts of contrast media and shorter fluoroscopy times.

"SmartVascular represents an entirely new workflow. It makes imaging considerably easier for surgeons, enabling them to generate the requisite image data in just a few steps," explains Dr. Stefan Wagner, Product Manager at Ziehm Imaging. "In combination with our C-arms with flat-panel detectors, SmartVascular delivers images that are of outstanding quality to support highly complex procedures."

Smart hardware/software bundle

SmartVascular software is compatible with the entire Ziehm Vision C-arm portfolio. Equipped with the latest flat-panel detector technology, Ziehm Vision RFD, for example, delivers distortion-free images, a wider field of view and is particularly suited to vascular surgery. Its square, 30 cm x 30 cm flat-panel detector increases the field of view to 2.5 times that of conventional devices, enabling even peripheral vessels to be easily visualized. Thanks to the 20kW generator, the powerful C-arm can produce high-contrast images of even fine vascular structures with over 16,000 shades of gray – making Ziehm Vision RFD and SmartVascular the perfect bundle for vascular surgery.

Ziehm Imaging flat-panel technology goes from strength to strength - over 270 mobile C-arms delivered with flat-panel detectors in five years

Mobile C-arms combine versatility and efficiency with optimal image quality

Nuremberg, November 25, 2010 – Ziehm Imaging is further consolidating its position as the leading provider of mobile C-arms equipped with flat-panel technology. With C-arm sales totaling 118 thus far for 2010, the company's revenue is up almost a third on last year. Ziehm Imaging mobile C-arm highlights include outstanding image quality, large C-arm openings and high-resolution x-rays with over 16,000 shades of gray.

Innovation leader in mobile C-arm technology

In 2005, Ziehm Imaging was the first company to launch C-arms with flat-panel detectors. The Nuremberg company invests around fifteen percent of revenue in research and development and has been a pioneer in the fields of fully digital mobile C-arms with flat-panel technology for many years now. Today, the company is a global player, with exports accounting for 60 percent of revenue. Around 80 percent of the company’s products have been launched within the last three years. Furthermore, Germany's Federal Armed Forces is equipping its operating centers in field hospitals, hospitals and on navy warships worldwide with Ziehm Imaging products and recently placed a major order worth tens of millions of euros.

"With over 270 digital C-arm installations worldwide, it is clear that mobile flat-panel technology has established itself in the clinical environment," explains Martin Herzmann, Director Global Marketing at Ziehm Imaging. "We have sold over 118 of our high-end C-arms between January and October of this year alone, underscoring once again our position as innovation and market leader," continues Herzmann.

High-quality images for ORs

Flat-panel C-arms can produce images with over 16,000 shades of gray – four times higher than conventional image intensifiers. The images are also in a square format, which significantly extends the visible area and enables x-rays from Ziehm Imaging to deliver up to 60 percent more information. The flat-panel detector is compact and saves space, giving the C-arm an unparalleled opening of almost 90 centimeters. This makes it easier for surgeons to work with the fluoroscopic equipment during surgical procedures. It also provides greater access to patients, which helps raise clinical success rates. By simplifying patient positioning, the larger opening also makes life easier for OR staff.

New applications for mobile C-arms

The intraoperative use of mobile flat-panel technology has taken cardiac and vascular surgery in particular to new heights and raised the bar for quality in clinical environments. Operations that previously relied on stationary systems can now be carried out with mobile flat-panel technology. This reduces installation costs for hospitals and clinics, also combining the mobility benefits of C-arm technology with maximum image quality.