Philips Integrates 3D Ultrasound with Software for Surveillance of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms

Royal Philips, Amsterdam, is debuting the Philips Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) Model, which is based on 3D ultrasound. An AAA is an aneurysm that forms in the lower part of the aorta. Typically, AAAs are identified incidentally during abdominal imaging exams but, in some cases, remain undetected until rupture. A ruptured AAA has an 80% mortality rate, emphasizing the importance of routine surveillance.

Philips AAA Model integrates advanced software and 3D ultrasound technologies into a single solution to help increase diagnostic confidence. The software automatically segments and quantifies the size of the aneurysm sac for surveillance of known native (untreated), and post-EVAR (treated) AAAs.

The current standard of care for AAAs includes 2D ultrasound and CT angiography (CTA). Each of these modalities has its drawbacks, including inter-operator variability with 2D ultrasound and patient exposure to high levels of radiation and nephrotoxic contrast agents with CTA.

A recent clinical study showed that 3D ultrasound examination for native AAA surveillance has advanced inter-operator reproducibility, superior to that of 2D ultrasound, supporting the broader use of 3D ultrasound in standard AAA surveillance programs. 3D ultrasound has been shown to estimate the diameter and volume of a AAA with acceptable reproducibility and an improved agreement (over 2D ultrasound) with CT.

Furthermore, 3D ultrasound has also been proven to correlate significantly better to 3D CT than 2D ultrasound for assessing the maximum diameter of the residual sac post-EVAR, with clinically acceptable reproducibility. Philips AAA Model integrates technologies including Philips Premium Ultrasound System (EPIQ Elite), Philips Array Transducer (X6-1 xMATRIX) and advanced software into a single solution, to help improve the experience and outcomes for clinicians and patients alike.

“Regular surveillance of abdominal aortic aneurysm patients is essential, but today’s standard of care has downsides,” says Bich Le, senior vice president, general manager ultrasound at Philips. “Philips’ AAA Model seamlessly integrates leading Philips technologies including Philips Premium Ultrasound System, Philips Array Transducer, and innovative software into a single solution, to help improve the experience and outcomes for clinicians and patients alike.”