Good things really do come in small packages. Find out about today’s smaller, smart solutions.
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Canon Goes Compact
In a move to expand its line of digital radiography systems, Canon U.S.A. Inc, Lake Success, NY, has introduced the Canon CXDI-40G COMPACT Digital Radiography System, a flat panel detector that can be retrofitted onto existing radiography equipment.
The company recently showcased its latest offering at the 2009 Annual Meeting of the Society of Imaging Informatics in Medicine in Charlotte, NC.
As the 10th-generation offering, the Canon CXDI-40G COMPACT System sports a large image sensor and, according to the company, offers high-quality capabilities similar to the CXDI-40EG but in a smaller footprint.
Specifically, the system boasts a large 17 x 17-inch imaging area, allowing x-ray images to be confirmed on an optional preview monitor approximately 3 seconds after exposure. According to the company, the system addresses the need for timely and effective patient care. “Backed by Canon’s strong optical and imaging heritage, the Canon CXDI-40G COMPACT Digital Radiography System provides a variety of configuration options to help fit the exact requirements of a facility or practice,” said Tsuneo Imai, senior director and general manager, Medical Systems Division, Canon U.S.A. “The ability to retrofit the new CXDI-40G COMPACT DR System to existing equipment can help facilities upgrade their capabilities easily, increase productivity, and contribute to a significant cost savings on equipment purchases.” With the ability to be retrofitted into a range of radiography devices, the CXDI-40G COMPACT DR System can be installed into upright stands, RF tables, and Bucky units. Canon says that this will produce significant cost savings. Furthermore, the CXDI-40G COMPACT DR System features multiple applications, enabling capture of high-resolution (7.2 million pixels) radiological images in what the company describes as “a timely manner to help meet facilities’ general radiographic needs.” Supporting a high-quality image-processing performance, Canon says its proprietary control software allows for diagnostic accuracy. Images are transmitted in a timely manner over the hospital network to other workstations and printers. They can also be archived for data sharing. The company’s DR technology includes support for off-site diagnosis and emergency care.
The new CDXI-40G system joins Canon’s existing CXDI-50G Portable DR System, which features a thin, lightweight design and has an imaging area of 14 x 17 inches. When combined with a portable, ergonomic Bucky, the CXDI-50G brings digital radiography directly to the patient’s bedside. According to Canon, its 50G DR was designed as a practical solution, offering a range of room applications that are difficult to perform with fixed devices.Canon’s portfolio of products includes 10 generations of flat panel sensors: the Canon CXDI-11, Canon CXDI-22, Canon CXDI-31, Canon CXDI-40G, Canon CXDI-50G, Canon CXDI-40C, Canon CXDI-40EG, Canon CXDI-50C, Canon CXDI-40EC, Canon CXDI-60G, and CXDI-40G COMPACT. The company has installed more than 3,300 DR sensor panels throughout Canada, the United States, and Latin America.
Elaine Sanchez is an associate editor for Axis Imaging News.
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Something Small from SonoSite…Soon!
By Tor Valenza
There’s no doubt that hand-carried ultrasounds (HCUs) are getting smaller and lighter as technology improves. An example of this trend is the new 6-pound NanoMaxx from SonoSite Inc, Bothell, Wash.
According to a SonoSite press release and Web site information, the NanoMaxx is designed for diagnostic imaging, clinical assessment and procedural guidance at the hospital bedside and in the physician’s office.
Specifically, the company says that the NanoMaxx will have five transducers that can be utilized for examinations and procedures, such as thoracic assessment for hemothorax, hydrothorax, and pneumothorax; vascular access; needle aspirations and injections; as well as abdominal, cardiac, nerve, OB/Gyn, musculoskeletal, small parts, and vascular scanning.
The unit is slim, with measurements of 14.1″ long x 8.2″ high x 2.3″ wide. With an 8.4-inch LCD touch-screen diagonal display, visualizations will also be comparable to the traditional laptop type of HCUs. NanoMaxx said it utilizes proprietary, advanced imaging algorithm technologies, including ColorHDT, to deliver its image quality within its smaller footprint.
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The thin profile of the NanoMaxx also allows it to be wall-mounted, placed on an exam table, or used on a pole-mounted stand.
For clinicians wanting to be completely free from the wall plug, a 2-hour battery allows the unit to be carried between offices and exam rooms or brought into the field. Should there be any on-the-go falls, the NanoMaxx has been drop tested at 3 feet.
The company also reports that the NanoMaxx has the industry’s first “elastomeric bumper” for extra durability. Its magnesium-based shell allows for a light yet sturdy case, helping to minimize damage from accidental droppage.
Kevin M. Goodwin, SonoSite president and CEO, also mentioned in a press statement that a fluid-resistant user interface makes the system easy to clean and disinfect, helping to address concerns about infection control.
“The NanoMaxx tool makes high-quality ultrasound available to a much broader range of clinicians and applications, all of which can save time and money and improve patient safety,” said Goodwin.
SonoSite is now waiting for FDA 510(k) clearance to begin distribution in the United States. Once approved, the unit will be sold with a 5-year warranty.
Tor Valenza is a staff writer for Axis Imaging News.
