In these times, digital solutions are becoming more important than ever. This was also noticeable at this year's ECR, held for the first time as a virtual event. It was a real pleasure to take part in this virtual congress together with you and to showcase how we are shaping the digital transformation of imaging and therapy to improve patient care. From virtual symposia, live discussions and demonstrations to personal expert meetings, there were many opportunities to discover the latest innovations in radiology. A particular highlight was the keynote speech delivered by Dr. Bernd Montag as part of an expert panel in which he discussed exciting developments such as the Digital Twin. Listen to the speech here. And if you missed the chance to attend this year’s ECR, read about the highlights here.
X-ray imaging with integrated AI
One of our major innovations at this year´s ECR was the introduction of YSIO X.pree1, with integrated AI to help streamline operations in both image generation as well as reading. Its supportive, intuitive, and ergonomic features benefit both users and patients.
YSIO X.pree represents a new concept in radiography that is focused on user-assisting system intelligence. The myExam Companion uses the possibilities of digitalization to turn data into built-in expertise for consistent results every time. Based on images from the myExam 3D camera, an intelligent algorithm automatically detects the thorax to set the optimal acquisition area. Radiation is focused only on the relevant area with the goal being to acquire an image containing all the necessary information with the lowest possible radiation exposure. Furthermore, the user can adjust the desired collimation area at any time on a live touchscreen image of the patient. These new functionalities allow optimal use of the device every time so that the technologist has can concentrate more on the patient.
Intelligent CT imaging
With our single-source CT scanner SOMATOM X.cite, we are equipping healthcare professionals with tools to effectively overcome pressing issues such as staff shortages, insufficient time, and the development of standards for high-quality diagnostics and decision support. It is also the first scanner equipped with the myExam Companion, our new intelligent user guidance system based on AI. In combination with its 82 cm gantry, SOMATOM X.cite can offer unprecedented image quality in the single-source segment, in addition to maximum patient comfort.
We are committed to make our latest innovation broadly available. Based on this commitment, the myExam Companion is also available for our latest series of scanners, the SOMATOM go. platform.
CT Imaging right where the patient is
Instead of patients having to be transferred to the radiology department for a CT scan, the new mobile head CT scanner SOMATOM On.site now allows the scanner to be taken to the ICU so that patients can be examined from their bedside. This removes the need for complicated patient transportation that involves multiple staff members and a high risk for the patient.
AI-based assistants for magnetic resonance imaging
We also highlighted two new applications in our AI-Rad Companion family. These software assistants based on artificial intelligence (AI) are designed to assist radiologist's magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations in the brain and prostate body regions. AI-Rad Companion Brain MR for Morphometry Analysis4 automatically segments the brain in MRI images, measures brain volume, and marks volume deviations against normative data from an age-matched healthy population in result tables used by neurologists for diagnosis. AI-Rad Companion Prostate MR for Biopsy Support2 automatically segments the prostate on MRI images and enables radiologists to mark lesions to make it is easier for their colleagues in urology to perform targeted prostate biopsies. Both new applications can be used on MRI scanners from different manufacturers and are available on teamplay3, the cloud-based healthcare platform from Siemens Healthineers.
Innovative technologies and solutions
Moreover, we showcased our latest ultrasound system, ACUSON Redwood, which delivers premium image quality, exceptional performance, and smart workflow even given the restraints of tight budgets. We also revealed our latest innovations in minimally invasive treatment with our ARTIS icono family, the breakthrough line that offers a wide procedure mix in a single interventional suite. Following last year’s acquisition of Corindus Vascular Robotics, Inc., headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, we presented Corindus CorPath GRX together with our ARTIS icono biplane system to demonstrate how endovascular robotics help physicians to precisely control guide catheters, guidewires, balloon or stent implants using integrated imaging. In a game-changing development, the physician no longer has to stand directly at the angiography table, as is current practice, but rather can monitor the procedure via a separate control module and is therefore exposed to less radiation.