MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Medgadget Anesthesiology' source. Wed, 08 Feb 2012 07:39:21 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5659301&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2012%2F02%2Fcontinuous-near-infrared-regional-cerebral-perfusion-monitoring-shows-promise-in-stroke-patients.html Researchers at Mayo Clinic in Florida have shown that cerebral optically-based near infra-red spectroscopic oximetry applied to patients who have suffered a stroke can help monitor regional cerebral perfusion in real time, and thus “may serve as a useful, noninvasive, bedside intensive care unit monitoring tool to assess brain oxygenation in a direct manner.” The study looked at the device called Fore-Sight from Casmed of Branford, CT, that measures blood oxygen, similar to a finger clip pulse oximeter. The Mayo study results have been published in Journal of Neurosurgery this month.Regional cerebral blood flow monitoring devices such as Fore-Sight are already in wide deployment in cardiac surgery, where they are thought to prevent brain ischemia in patients undergoing major s... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5659301 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:47:02 +0100 5659301 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5659302&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2012%2F02%2Fcardinal-health-releases-smart-seal-surgical-mask.html Cardinal Health has made available its Smart-Seal surgical mask that improves both its fit and reduces interior fogging while providing a high level of filtration and resistance to liquids.From the announcement:Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5659302 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 19:11:23 +0100 5659302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5646873&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2012%2F01%2Fhealthstream-and-laerdal-unveil-new-clinical-simulator-management-tools.html HealthStream and Laerdal Medical launched a couple new products for managing and studying clinical simulations.SimView allows for recording of simulation video, audio, data logs, and how the virtual patient responds to therapy. SimManager is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) application that helps manage simulation routines from scheduling, to progress tracking, to delivering reports while tracking room and equipment availability.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5646873 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:11:16 +0100 5646873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5627946&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2012%2F01%2Fivera-medicals-curos-port-protector-gets-expanded-fda-clearance.html Ivera Medical Corporation out of San Diego, CA received a new FDA 510(k) clearance for its Curos disinfecting port protector, after the company confirmed a shorter disinfection time and an increase in how long the device can be used.According to the company, independent tests have shown that the cap disinfects IV access ports in three minutes, keeping them clean for seven days when not accessed.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5627946 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 16:58:59 +0100 5627946 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619607&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2012%2F01%2Fphilips-unveils-compact-xper-flex-cardio-physiomonitoring.html Yesterday Philips announced its new Xper Flex Cardio Physiomonitoring system for intraoperative hemodynamic analysis.The device provides clinicians with Fractional Flow Reserve (FFR) measurements, as well as ECG, respiration, and other vitals. It features both 12 and 16-lead ECG analysis, giving more options when working in the EP, cath labs, and during more invasive procedures.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619607 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:26:47 +0100 5619607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5580811&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2012%2F01%2Fmasimos-prick-free-pronto-7-for-painless-hemoglobin-spot-checking.html Masimo received FDA 510(k) clearance for the  Pronto-7 device that allows for quick and noninvasive bedside checking of total hemoglobin (SpHb), SpO2, pulse rate, and perfusion index.  This is a unique tool that makes finger pricking and direct blood sampling unnecessary when watching patients’ hemoglobin levels, either in OR or in critical care settings.The Pronto-7 already received the European CE mark back in 2010, but conducted a recall when the sensor was found to work poorly in low temperature.  The issue was addressed and the device was reintroduced in August of last year.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5580811 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 19:12:59 +0100 5580811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5559317&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2012%2F01%2Fcompany-claims-optical-blood-pressure-monitor-breakthrough.html Tarilian Laser Technologies, a Hertfordshire, UK firm claims it has developed the “greatest technological advance in blood pressure measurement for 130 years”  Unlike direct pressure measurement that every other BP meter does, the company’s Sapphire device uses an optical sensor to continuously measure blood pressure at the wrist. Keeping the Sapphire stationary will provide beat-to-beat readings and Tarilian says the device can effectively be used to detect white coat hypertension (raised blood pressure due to patient being in a clinical setting).The company believes this technology can be translated for non-contact measurement of intraocular pressure, fetal heart monitoring, and for blood pressure monitoring using small mobile devices at different spots on the body.Rea... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5559317 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 19:20:54 +0100 5559317 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5537358&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F12%2Fproxima-generation-2-arterial-blood-analyser-gets-eu-clearance.html Sphere Medical based in Cambridge, UK received the European CE Mark of approval for its Proxima Generation 2 disposable arterial blood analyser. The device is intended for continuous monitoring of glucose, blood gas & electrolytes in patients in the OR and ICU and a recent clinical study has shown that the Proxima Generation 2 provides an equivalent performance when compared to lab and point-of-care blood gas analysers of arterial blood.Because measurements are made on a continuous basis and all the blood is immediately returned to the patient, the device lets clinicians keep a steady eye on patients without having to take regular readings and run samples to the lab.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5537358 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 18:12:59 +0100 5537358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5504230&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F12%2Fdifficult-iv-access-ez-vein-to-the-rescue.html According to The Oklahoman, the FDA approved the EZ Vein, a new device developed by an Oklahoma doctor for easing the placement of intravenous catheters in challenging patients.  Much like with a blood pressure cuff, the device is inflated using a hand pump and vasculature within the window opening is more readily seen.Dr. Robert Perry, a resident at Oklahoma University Medical Center, is the tinkerer that developed the device in his home workshop and managed to score one of the fastest FDA approvals ever: 17 days from submission.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5504230 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:42:30 +0100 5504230 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5476024&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F12%2Fesaotes-latest-ultrasound-devices-coming-to-market.html Esaote is releasing two new ultrasound systems for general clinical use.The MyLab Seven is a traditional wheeled device in a small footprint with new productivity features and the MyLab Alpha is a miniaturized laptop-like ultrasound that brings the same high quality imaging of the company’s high end systems into a small package.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5476024 Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:54:23 +0100 5476024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5476025&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F12%2Fnew-pyxis-parses-pills-with-perfection.html The daily activities of the modern hospital are increasingly automated and computer-controlled.  While the benefits in terms of preventing medication errors are attractive, an unwanted side effect is the proliferation of competing, often incompatible systems.  When you have several systems and databases in each hospital (medical records, order entry, medication list, medication orders, medication administration records, etc.), each of which are proprietary and don’t communicate with each other, the technology becomes cumbersome and leads to decreased efficiency and increased staff frustration.CareFusion, maker of the ubiquitous Pyxis medication dispensing system, is trying to address this problem with the Pyxis ES platform.  One of the key features of this new system is that it seeks ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5476025 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 19:15:47 +0100 5476025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5476026&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F12%2Fhemolung-respiratory-dialysis-system-may-soon-replace-ventilation-for-critically-ill-in-europe.html ALung Technologies (Pittsburgh, PA), whose Hemolung respiratory dialysis device was featured last year in our Best of Medgadget 2010 list, is planning on launching the device in Europe, according to MedCity News.The device, which overcomes the limitations of mechanical ventilation by using dialisys via the femoral or jugular veins to perform respiratory gas exchange, has been reviewed in a clinical trial in Germany on 20 patients and is now awaiting CE Mark approval.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5476026 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 19:11:28 +0100 5476026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5468309&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F12%2Fmindray-dc-t6-ultrasound-introduced-at-rsna.html Mindray is unveiling a new budget conscious general purpose ultrasound at the RSNA this week.  Although designed for vascular applications, the system can be used in a variety of clinical scenarios.The DC-T6 features a 15 inch adjustable TFT screen, up to two hours of scanning per battery charge, and common features like 4D and tissue doppler imaging, as well proprietary speckle reduction and image resolution management.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5468309 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 18:47:30 +0100 5468309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5431257&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F11%2Fsonosite-edge-portable-ultrasound-getting-debut-in-u-s.html SonoSite received FDA clearance for its EDGE ultrasound system that features new imaging algorithms and the largest high resolution LED screen of any SonoSite device.  The EDGE is built to be a durable ultrasound for regular use and can withstand three foot drops thanks to titanium outsides and aluminum insides.  The sealed silicone keypad keeps the liquid whatevers at bay from the electronics.SonoSite is awaiting CE Marking to move forward with delivering the device worldwide.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5431257 Mon, 21 Nov 2011 16:55:09 +0100 5431257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5421425&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F11%2Fweil-mini-chest-compressor-a-new-product-from-resuscitation-international.html The Weil Mini Chest Compressor, a portable mechanical CPR device by Resuscitation International, is a new product in the fight to battle sudden cardiac death.  It is a pneumatically driven piston device providing optimal chest compressions with adequate strength and depth. The device was developed to be small, easy to deploy, and lightweight. The easy to use design allows for attachment of the device to the patient within 10 seconds.A torso restraint is placed around the body and easily connected to the piston device allowing for circumferential chest compressions, freeing medical personal to tend to other aspects of handling the patient.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5421425 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 17:54:02 +0100 5421425 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5421426&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F11%2Fsamaritan-500p-automated-external-defibrillator-with-cpr-guidance.html Many are at risk for sudden cardiac death. Although survival from out of hospital arrest is dismal, it is greatly improved if the patient receives timely CPR and defibrillation (when the rhythm is appropriate).  This has led to a splurge of new Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) that provide automated rhythm analysis and cardiac shock (defibrillation) when appropriate.  The automation of the devices has enabled minimally-trained and lay responders to effectively help save lives.However, there are few products that combine external defibrillation with some aspects of CPR guidance for the minimally-trained or lay responders. One such product by HeartSine is known as the Samaritan PAD 500P.  This device, currently CE Marked, provides rhythm analysis and defibrillation when appropria... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5421426 Fri, 18 Nov 2011 16:33:23 +0100 5421426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5406904&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F11%2Fphilips-heartstart-fr3-automated-external-defibrillator-receives-510k-clearance.html Philips’ HeartStart FR3 Automated External Defibrillator (AED) received 510(k) clearance from the FDA.  The AED is among the smallest and lightest professional-grade AEDs by leading manufacturers, according to Philips.Furthermore, the device is able to send event data to a central monitoring station for future retrospective review.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5406904 Mon, 14 Nov 2011 18:18:52 +0100 5406904 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5399953&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F11%2Fiphoneipad-app-natively-processes-raw-ultrasound-data.html The Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering IBMT in St. Ingbert, Germany released a new iOS app for crunching raw ultrasound data right on the iPhone or iPad.  The app will be presented at the MEDICA 2011 conference in Dusseldorf next week.From the iTunes info page:Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5399953 Fri, 11 Nov 2011 19:59:54 +0100 5399953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5384208&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F11%2Fdraeger-infiniti-cnap-non-invasive-continuous-bp-monitor-coming-to-u-s.html Dräger is bringing the Infinity CNAP system for non-invasive blood pressure measurement to the U.S. This is a technology that was clinically tested on patients undergoing general anesthesia and found to provide “real-time estimates of arterial pressure comparable with those generated by an invasive intra-arterial catheter system.” The technology can potentially be used to keep a vigilant eye on other risky patients, such as in PACUs or on post operative floors.Developed by CNSystems (Graz, Austria), the technology provides continuous beat-to-beat readings of systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressure using a double finger sensor.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5384208 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 15:25:38 +0100 5384208 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5334897&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fmasimos-radical-7-pulse-oximeter-cleared-in-us-europe.html Masimo received FDA clearance and CE Mark of approval for the Radical-7 non-invasive pulse oximeter with rainbow Acoustic Monitoring technology that provides continuous readings of the acoustic respiration rate (RRa) waveform and measurements.A new feature on the system, not yet approved by the FDA, called In Vivo Adjustment, allows clinicians to calibrate the device to individual patients and to readings from reference quality invasive blood analysis devices.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5334897 Thu, 20 Oct 2011 16:41:45 +0100 5334897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5334898&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fking-systems-launches-kingvision-video-laryngoscope.html Indiana-based King Systems, a manufacturer of airway management, anesthesia, and respiratory medical supplies and devices, has introduced their KingVISION video laryngoscope system at the American Society of Anesthesiologists annual meeting, currently convening in Chicago.  The laryngoscope consists of a reusable lightweight, modular, 2.4″ non-glare, scratch-resistant QVGA color OLED display powered by standard AAA batteries mated to disposable, rigid polycarbonate/ABS standard or channeled MAC 3 blades with self-contained VGA CMOS camera optics and a white LED light source.  The standard blade fits in mouth openings as small as 13mm while the channeled blade (used to facilitate advancement of an endotracheal tube through the glottis) fits mouth openings as small as 18mm, which sho... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5334898 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 19:26:40 +0100 5334898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5334899&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fchristie-medical-launches-first-portable-veinviewer.html Christie Medical Holdings’ has announced the VeinViewer Flex, the first portable offering in the company’s VeinViewer line. The new device’s reduced size and battery operation make it possible to use VeinViewer technology in home care settings and blood centers for the first time.The VeinViewer technology projects an image of a patient’s blood vessels directly onto the skin in real time by detecting their location using near-infrared light, and is used to aid in needle placement.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5334899 Tue, 18 Oct 2011 18:37:44 +0100 5334899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5313752&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fsonosites-bioz-cardio-profile-system-for-non-invasive-monitoring-of-stroke-volume.html SonoSite, a firm better known for its portable ultrasounds, has released an impedance cardiography (ICG) system for non-invasive monitoring of hemodynamics. The system, promoted for use by anesthesiologists, but that can also be used in the ER or critical care units, may provide an option over the substantially more invasive pulmonary artery catheterization that’s commonly used to observe a patient’s hemodynamic profile.According to the company, investigators at Duke are currently assessing “the benefits of standardizing hemodynamic monitoring, including the BioZ Cardio Profile, for surgical procedures in the anesthesia suite.”Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5313752 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 22:01:51 +0100 5313752 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5313753&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fmcgrath-mac-video-laryngoscope-to-be-distributed-by-covidien.html Thanks to a distribution agreement with Covidien, Aircraft Medical will be making its McGRATH MAC video laryngoscope available to clinicians in much of the world.  Announced a year ago, this is a budget video laryngoscope intended for potentially difficult intubations.  As the video below demonstrates, it’s a straightforward tool that’s used pretty much like a regular laryngoscope.A more robust model from AirMedical, the McGRATH Series 5, features a couple extra features, such as variable blade length that can be adjusted to the patient anatomy.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5313753 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 16:19:44 +0100 5313753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5313754&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fnavigator-ds-ultrasound-guided-drug-delivery-system-fda-okd.html Carticept Medical based outside of Atlanta, GA won FDA 510(k) clearance for the Navigator Delivery System (Navigator DS) that provides ultrasound guidance when delivering corticosteroids and anesthetic agents to painful joints.The system accepts up to three vials of different medications and avoids the step of manually loading a syringe straight from the vial.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5313754 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:59:42 +0100 5313754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5303935&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fmobisante-mobius-sp1-smartphone-based-ultrasound-system-makes-its-commercial-debut.html Mobisante‘s smartphone-based MobiUS SP1 ultrasound is finally making its commercial debut. The USB ultrasound probe with the corresponding smartphone app already received FDA clearance last February, but it took the company quite a bit more time than expected to get its quality systems and a number of other FDA mandated controls in order.Sadly, the MobiUS needs USB 2.0, and only works on the already two year-old Windows Mobile 6.5-based Toshiba TG01 smartphone, leaving iPhones and Android devices in the dark. Mobisante is looking into a tablet-based solution to move the product forward. The MobiUS can use the phone’s cellular and wifi connections for sending images for consultation or storage in the PACS system. The system is available at a starting pricepoint of $7,495, a pric... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5303935 Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:39:09 +0100 5303935 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5284920&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fsiemens-rapidpoint-500-for-point-of-care-blood-gas-analysis.html Siemens has released new RAPIDPoint 500 Blood Gas System for whole blood testing at the point of care with laboratory quality results.Within 60 seconds, the device measures pH, blood gases, electrolytes, glucose, lactate and provides full CO-oximetry, including neonatal total bilirubin and total hemoglobin.Read More (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5284920 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 18:34:50 +0100 5284920 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5284921&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fneutron-needlefree-catheter-patency-device-prevents-clogged-central-lines.html ICU Medical (San Clemente, CA) has launched the Neutron needlefree catheter patency device with constant neutral pressure, an IV catheter connector that prevents reflux of blood and thereby maintaining catheter patency and preventing other complications such as biofilm formation. The FDA cleared device prevents reflux during situations such as IV bag run-dry, infusion pump stop or patient vascular pressure changes caused by coughing, sneezing or movement.A silicone seal forms a barrier when the line is not being used. During access, the seal is depressed and the fluid path windows are exposed through the device’s split-septum. The company is so sure of the efficacy of the device that it offers a $100,000 payback to healthcare facilities that do not achieve a reduction in catheter occlusi... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5284921 Wed, 05 Oct 2011 04:43:46 +0100 5284921 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5284922&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F10%2Fsmiths-medfusion-4000-wireless-syringe-infusion-pump-oks-in-u-s.html Smiths Medical received FDA clearance for its Medfusion 4000 wireless syringe infusion pump. Like its predecessor, the Medfusion 3500, the new model runs Smiths’ proprietary PharmGuard software that allows for easy management of infusion data and provides safety parameters to prevent incorrect dosing during anesthesia or in critical care areas. The new model provides wireless connectivity (802.11b/g) so that pump data can be managed remotely without having another wire in the OR.Medfusion® 4000 Syringe Infusion Pump with PharmGuard® Medication Safety Software – a Smart infusion pump that now has wireless (802.11b/g) and wired Ethernet connectivity for efficient drug library, syringe and firmware management, eliminating the need to physically search for pumps and manually update t... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5284922 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 18:27:00 +0100 5284922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5259933&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fcirca-esophageal-temperature-monitoring-system-approved-in-us.html CIRCA Scientific, a Park City, Utah company, received FDA clearance for its CIRCA S-CATH and CIRCA Temperature Monitoring System that together provide real time temperature monitoring from the esophagus. The S-CATH features 12 thermometers that report their readings 20 times a second, and the catheter itself has a two-plane sinusoidal shape to cover a wide area of the esophagus. The CIRCA Temperature Monitoring System displays continuous readings, provides range alarms, and highlights the temperature of the hottest of the sensors. Features from the products’ page: CS-1000 CIRCA TEMPERATURE MONITORING SYSTEM • 12 temperature display – 50mS refresh rate (20-times-per-second) • Continuous maximum temperature display • Graphical display of temperature change over time • Us... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5259933 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 20:09:13 +0100 5259933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5259934&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fnonin-onyx-vantage-9590-pulse-oximeter-unveiled.html Nonin has released a new professional pulse oximeter, the Onyx Vantage 9590. The device features 6,000 spot checks to precisely measure SpO2 and heart rate even in patients with low perfusion. Some of the features of the 9590 model over the previously available 9500: • Highly efficient now with 6,000 spot checks – compared to 1,600 checks on the Onyx 9500 –on 2 AAA batteries • Sleek design with internal spring and easy-to-change battery compartment • Industry-leading 4 -year warranty vs. the 2-year warranty on the Onyx 9500 • Now available in 4 colors – black, blue, red and purple Press release: Nonin Medical Launches Onyx® Vantage 9590 Professional Finger Pulse Oximeter at ERS Annual Congress … Product page: Onyx Vantage 9590… (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5259934 Wed, 28 Sep 2011 19:44:04 +0100 5259934 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5250096&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fthe-new-neurosense-ns-701-electroencephalogram-monitor-from-neurowave.html Here’s a new device touted to be useful for monitoring the depth of anesthesia and sedation. NeuroWave out of Cleveland Heights, Ohio released their new NeuroSENSE Monitor (NS-701), a smaller and lighter version of the last model.  This bilateral brain monitor, designed with independent indices for each brain hemisphere, now comes with a 10.4″ monitor screen, as well as advanced EEG algorithms that crunch the company’s proprietary depth of anesthesia indexes. Additionally, according to the company, the new monitor “integrates a new optimized algorithm for the detection of cortical suppression in noisy recordings and for the detection of near-suppression periods during spindle activity.” More features from the product page: Delay-free tracking of patient state... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5250096 Fri, 23 Sep 2011 16:42:35 +0100 5250096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5250097&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fc-mac-video-laryngoscope-tested-in-air-ambulance-setting.html We reported earlier on the C-MAC, a video laryngoscope produced by Karl Storz. Today physicians from the University of Utah Health Care published a study in the Air Medical Journal about the use of this device in the air medical setting. Aircraft produce a lot of movement and vibrations that can make endotracheal tube placement a difficult procedure. Direct visualization of the tube passing through the vocal cords is the definitive method to confirm correct tube placement, in addition to end-tidal CO2 and breath sounds. The researchers included 21 patients and reported successful visualization in 17 of them (81%). According to the results this method facilitated a safer intubation during flight. Using the C-MAC a digital image can be captured to add to the electronic patient record. The C-... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5250097 Thu, 22 Sep 2011 16:20:21 +0100 5250097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5236613&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fultrasonix-to-present-new-positional-tracking-technology-for-peripheral-nerve-blocks.html SonixGPS from Ultrasonix Medical Corporation is an interesting technology that might make peripheral nerve blocks quicker and easier. By providing procedural ultrasound guidance, the technology will supposedly revolutionize the ability to visualize smaller gauge needles within tissue by using positional tracking data and overlaying this on the ultrasound image. In addition, users can target the needle tip destination inside the body, both in-plane and out-of-plane, by positioning the needle on the surface of the patient’s skin. By utilizing electro-magnetic tracking technology, Ultrasonix has been able to embed sensors in the needle tips down to 20GA in size, and plans to go even smaller in the future. The current applications include vascular access, nerve blocks, and biopsy routine... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5236613 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 18:43:14 +0100 5236613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5236614&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fsmiths-medical-pharmguard-anesthesia-software-service-p-a-s-s.html For its popular Medfusion 3500 syringe infusion pump, Smiths Medical (St. Paul, Minn.) has announced a new service, specifically aimed at anesthesia and critical care market. Dubbed PharmGuard Anesthesia Software Service (P.A.S.S.), the offering provides “anesthesiologists and pharmacists with the convenience of a customer-specific drug library entered into their Medfusion® 3500 syringe infusion pumps prior to shipping the pumps to them,” according to the company. Features from the PharmGuard product page: PharmGuard® events and alarm reports evidence based reports supports error trending and documentation of clinically relevant events Extensive drug libraries support standardization of drug concentrations throughout the facility Tall Man Letter display full drug name (... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5236614 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:55:43 +0100 5236614 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5236615&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fengineers-use-wireless-network-to-monitor-breathing.html A couple years ago, a team of researchers from the University of Utah managed to create a wireless network made from standard home automation devices to “see” through walls. Now, the engineers are using the same technology to monitor breathing in patients with sleep apnea,  post surgery, and babies at risk for SIDS. The system consists of a network of 20 off-the-shelf wireless transceivers placed on the edge of a bed, which allows for a total of 380 individual measurements. The transceivers send radio waves across the bed, crisscrossing and intersecting each other at various points on a patient laying on the bed. Chest and abdomen motion impedes the crisscrossing signals, which can be detected and translated into a breathing rate. Measurements were shown to be accurate to two-... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5236615 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 17:38:41 +0100 5236615 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5236616&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fcarefusion-revel-palm-top-ventilator-for-emergency-transport.html CareFusion has released the tiny ReVel ventilator that’s designed for transport applications where size, weight, and reliability are all key. The device weighs 9 1/2 pounds (4.3 Kg) and will support intubated pediatric (at least 5 Kg) and adult patients for up to four hours on a single charge. Hot swappable batteries allow breathing support to be provided indefinitely from the pickup site of the patient all the way to the ER. More about the ReVel from CareFusion: The ReVel ventilator also provides monitoring and clinical tools to assist clinicians in best managing and caring for patients in hospital or alternate care facilities. Its Spontaneous Breathing Trial (SBT) technology provides data to help clinicians decide when to safely wean patients from ventilation. The device also feat... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5236616 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 19:48:14 +0100 5236616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5224558&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fheartworks-transthoracic-echocardiography-simulator-offers-a-classroom-experience-without-a-human-heart.html Inventive Medical Ltd and Glassworks, a visual effects and post production company based in London, have developed a transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) simulator based on their HeartWorks heart modelling suite of tools. The simulator comprises a mannequin torso, probe and visualization software. From the product page: This package allows real-time simulated TTE imaging of the virtual heart using a manikin. The life size manikin torso has soft skin with accurate, palpable anatomical landmarks to aid positioning of the handheld ultrasound probe. The screen display allows the user to identify the position of the probe on the virtual chest as well as to see the orientation of the ultrasound plane. The anatomy display includes a representation of the chest wall, ribs, sternum and spine as wel... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5224558 Tue, 13 Sep 2011 17:12:09 +0100 5224558 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5207635&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F09%2Fcpr-devices-found-to-protect-patients-brain-function-after-cardiac-arrest.html Advanced Circulatory Systems out of Roseville, Minnesota has announced promising results from a clinical trial of its ResQCPR System, which combines the firm’s ResQPump active compression-decompression CPR device and ResQPOD impedance threshold device. Supported by the National Institute of Health, the study compared CPR performed with the device combination against traditional CPR and found that the new method offers improved protection to the heart and brain following cardiac arrest. Dubbed the ResQTrial, the trial also investigated the use of therapeutic hypothermia in conjunction with the ResQCPR System. When compared to standard CPR performed with therapeutic hypothermia, the ResQCPR System led to a six-fold increase in patients who improved from poor neurologic function at hosp... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5207635 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 16:07:26 +0100 5207635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5160785&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fmasimo-sedline-eeg-based-brain-function-monitor-receives-ce-mark.html In conclusion, the benefits remain controversial (the American Society of Anesthesiologists advises to use a brain function monitor only in selected patients). Flashback: Masimo Invests in Anesthesia Awareness Technology. Good Move? We Don’t Think So… Press release: Masimo Obtains CE Mark for SEDLine, Launches EEG-Based Brain Function Monitors in European Market… Product page: Masimo SEDLine… (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5160785 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 16:48:18 +0100 5160785 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5131567&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F08%2Fmasimo-reintroduces-pronto-7-finger-sensor-after-recall.html We reported on the introduction of Masimo‘s Pronto 7 back in June 2010. To review, this handheld, noninvasive device provides a spot-check of hemoglobin (SpHb), SpO2, pulse rate, and perfusion index.  Since then, Masimo voluntarily recalled the sensors associated with this device due to problems with reliability of data at low ambient temperatures.  The company has subsequently redesigned the sensors and re-validated the data with thousands of patients. With the new sensors validated, Masimo has initiated international availability of Pronto-7 in Europe, Middle East, Africa, South America, and Asia (except for countries requiring clearance, such as Japan). As far as the U.S. is concerned, FDA 510(k) clearance is pending at this time. Masimo Founder and CEO, Joe Kiani, stated: &#822... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5131567 Mon, 15 Aug 2011 15:29:56 +0100 5131567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108818&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fouchless-needles-cool-skin-make-injectable-cosmetic-treatments-less-painful.html Although injectables such as Botox and dermal fillers have made cosmetic treatments much easier for patients, the needles used in these treatments can still cause pain and discomfort. Traditional local anesthetic creams on the injection site can take over half an hour to take effect, but Louisville, KY-based BellaNovus claims that its new line of Ouchless Needle devices will solve this problem while also minimizing post-procedure numbness. The Ouchless Needle is a small disposable device which numbs the injection site by simultaneously cooling the surrounding skin. From the product page: This patent pending Ouchless™ Needle is a disposable syringe-attachable dispenser that delivers a precise stream of numbing vapocoolant to the skin just ahead of the tip of the needle just before the ski... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108818 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 15:08:54 +0100 5108818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108819&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fclaritee-miniaturized-transesophageal-echocardiography-probe-and-zura-system-receive-eu-ce-mark.html ImaCor has received CE certification for its ClariTEE probe and Zura platform. The ClariTEE, which previously received FDA approval in 2008, is a miniaturized transesophageal echocardiography probe designed for continuous hemodynamic assessment of high-acuity patients in the peri-operative area or ICU for up to 72 hours.Traditional transesophageal echocardiography is not suitable for this application due to the large size of the probes and the prohibitive costs of dedicating one machine to one patient. The ClariTEE is a disposable probe just the size of a nasogastric tube. The probe uses a highfrequency (7 MHz) for resolution combined with a 15 cm depth of penetration and is able to offer both color flow and B imaging modes.  It provides data about cardiac filling pressures, function and ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108819 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 15:21:12 +0100 5108819 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108820&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fworlds-first-arm-cuff-monitor-measures-central-blood-pressure.html Centron Diagnostics, a spin-out of King’s College London, recently released a blood pressure monitor that can measure peripheral and central systolic blood pressure with one upper arm cuff. The cBP 301 monitor not only records the waveform of blood pressure at the arm, but uses uses a transfer function to calculate the central blood pressure with accuracy similar to radial tonometry. According to the company, its technology has been validated against invasive measurements of central aortic blood pressure. More from Centron: cSBP can be measured directly using a pressure sensor placed in the aortic root but this is impractical for most purposes. The approach most widely used at present is to obtain a peripheral blood pressure waveform by applanation tonometry of the radial artery (hol... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108820 Tue, 19 Jul 2011 22:38:58 +0100 5108820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108821&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fedwards-ev1000-critical-care-platform-gets-fda-clearance.html The course of a general anesthetic has often been likened to an airplane flight – the induction (takeoff), emergence (landing), and whatever turbulence you encounter along the way.  Now the cockpit just became a lot fancier with a new monitoring system from Edwards Lifesciences.  The Edwards EV1000, which just received FDA clearance, is touted as presenting the status of the patient in an “entirely new, intuitive and meaningful way.” The system integrates the FloTrac arterial waveform analyzer and PreSep/PediaSat oximetry catheters, along with the VolumeView transpulmonary thermodilution method to calculate and display a wide array of physiological variables to help diagnosis and treat critical illness. The VolumeView looks especially interesting, touting to calculate t... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108821 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:27:36 +0100 5108821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108822&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fneurowave-launches-neuromodulation-device-to-treat-chemotherapy-induced-nausea-and-vomiting.html People who are in the business of treating nausea (anesthesiologists, oncologists) have seen in the past electrical wrist devices designed to prevent nausea and vomiting. Even though not highly efficacious, these gadgets could be useful adjuncts for some patients. Chicago-based Neurowave Medical Technologies has released its newest transdermal neuromodulation device, the Nometex. The new device, which resembles a wristwatch, is designed to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting without drugs. According to the company, in a clinical study, treatment with Nometex reduced nausea and vomiting without the side effects commonly associated with existing pharmaceutical treatments. From the press release: Nometex was designed to improve the quality of life for the more than 1.2 million Amer... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108822 Wed, 13 Jul 2011 17:12:07 +0100 5108822 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108823&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F07%2Fibag-urine-bag-tweets-when-it-is-getting-full.html Wireless technology is penetrating all sorts of aspects of our world and culture. According to MedCity News, Future Path Medical received FDA regulatory approval to market a urine bag with wireless capabilities. The tiny computer that attaches to the traditional bag measures the fill status and temperature of the fluids inside, and transmits that information via standard IP to any device that wants to receive it. Could be very convenient for caretakers not to have to check up on the status of the bag. iBag™ combines a low-cost fluid sensor with an optional thermistor-based catheter, software and wireless communications providing urine monitoring. In addition, iBag™ will contribute to reduced urine spills and potentially with caregiver assistance – no urine backup in the patient.... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108823 Wed, 06 Jul 2011 18:31:06 +0100 5108823 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108824&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fnew-allied-healthcare-mass-casualty-ventilators.html St. Louis-based Allied Healthcare has released a line of ventilators designed for mass casualty situations. During natural or man-made disasters, hospitals may be overwhelmed by the sheer number of patients needing life support, and clinical staff typically not qualified to provide life support may be required to assist. Additionally, electric power may become unavailable for stand-alone mobile ventilators that can operate for extended periods of time and demand continuous electricity. The Allied Mass Casualty Ventilators were designed for such situations, and they feature simple operation, long battery life, and are able to operate without external gas connections. “If you can’t breathe nothing else matters,” said Jack Dabrowski, Allied’s National Product Manager. “Early respon... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108824 Tue, 21 Jun 2011 18:23:40 +0100 5108824 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108825&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fmaquet-gets-fda-clearance-for-flow-i-anesthesia-system.html MAQUET‘s futuristic-looking, advanced FLOW-i anesthesia system has been given 510(k) marketing clearance by the FDA. The approval applies to C20, C30 and C40 models of the system, according to the company. The anesthesia machine, in addition to advanced monitoring and respiratory controls, features the company’s proprietary MAQUET VOLUME REFLECTOR (VR), a re-breathing device that allows partial re-circulation of exhaled gases, hence it can save a buck or two on vapors in a busy anesthesia department. From the product brochure and press release: Based on the core technology of the MAQUET SERVO ventilator series, FLOW-i is able to maintain constant gas flow despite increasing airway pressure, provide high flow rates quickly, allow quick and easy triggering and keep PEEP constant ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108825 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 18:45:24 +0100 5108825 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108826&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fchristie-medical-announces-veinviewer-vision-omnimount.html Christie Medical Innovations has announced its new VeinViewer Vision OmniMount, which provides a smaller physical footprint and reduced cost for the company’s VeinViewer platform. The VeinViewer technology uses near-infrared light to produce an image of a patient’s veins, and then projects the image directly onto the skin to aid in IV placement. From the press release: The form factor of OmniMount is further reduced compared to the high-mobility cart model of VeinViewer Vision, but it features the same clinically proven vein-viewing capabilities. With OmniMount, customers have the key option of using the semi-permanent mount to position the device on a wall or table. The reduced size and mounting feature will prove to be especially useful in smaller treatment settings such as clinics, ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108826 Wed, 15 Jun 2011 16:20:36 +0100 5108826 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5108827&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmedgadget.com%2F2011%2F06%2Fmedegrip-given-go-ahead-in-europe.html MedeGrip, a simple foam device for working with small or breakable things in the clinic or on the floor, has received the European CE Mark of approval.  It was less than a month ago that MedeGrip was successfully registered with the FDA as a Class 1 device and Access Scientific included it as part of the POWERWAND Maximum Barrier Kit. Developed by a PICC line nurse, the device helps take away the pain of handling things like Luer Loks and pin knots, and makes it a bit safer to work with glass ampules. Here’s a short video demonstrating the MedeGrip: Product page: MedeGrip… Flashbacks: MedeGrip to Make Work With Central Lines, Ampules, Other Devices Easier and Safer; MedeGrip for Pain Free Fingers Gets FDA Registered (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5108827 Tue, 07 Jun 2011 21:54:35 +0100 5108827 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4776130&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F05%2Fultrasound_in_a_macbook_laptop_terason_t3200_ultrasound_system_breast_series_unveiled.html Terason of Burlington, Massachusetts has released the Terason t3200 Ultrasound System - Breast Series. The system is built around an Apple MacBook Pro, providing easy sharing of images and access to an EMR. Plus it can be used as a standard laptop for other tasks. From the product page: Image quality and clarity for assessment and visualization of detected abnormalities is essential in breast screening. Terason's OmniBeam™ increases the spatial detail and accuracy of curved surfaces while TeraVision™ II provides refined texture and detail. Breast-specific presets, custom exams, easy documentation and a customizable report page result in faster patient throughput. X-Site probes with advanced crystal technology, coupled with Terason's unique DDR™ uniform imaging capabi... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4776130 Mon, 02 May 2011 18:34:13 +0100 4776130 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4759263&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Fsecond_option_defibrillator_electrode_pads_to_help_save_more_lives.html Rice University bioengineering students have developed a modified set of external defibrillator pads that can provide an additional option for cardioverting the heart. Three electrodes are embedded between two pads and a switch selects which path for the current to take. By following simple user instructions, bystanders can easily provide a second option that's not available in current defibrillators. The system, which was created to transparently improve the efforts of untrained public responders, can be adapted to existing defibs. The potential for their project was clear from the beginning. "We did some calculations that suggested we could save at least 13,000 lives per year," Otto said. "Cardiac defibrillation is very time-sensitive. Thirty seconds can be the difference between life a... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4759263 Wed, 27 Apr 2011 17:59:14 +0100 4759263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4747951&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Fvisualsonics_vevostrain_speckletracking_technology_effective_in_visualizing_ventricular_dynamics_in.html An interesting ultrasound technology is being tested that aims to quantitatively evaluate ventricular function and regional wall motion abnormalities, to better document and follow up cardiac dynamics. Researchers from Harvard's Brigham and Women's Hospital are using new ultrasound software from VisualSonics of Toronto, Canada to visualize the precise movement of mice hearts. VisualSonics' VevoStrain is a proprietary version of speckle-tracking echocardiography which the researchers have found is effective in assessing global left ventricular function. The first animation shows a normal mouse heart and the second is suffering from the left ventricular failure after an infarct.     From the product page: Speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) is a novel method for determi... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4747951 Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:33:15 +0100 4747951 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4735487&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Fsonixcam_helps_document_ultrasound_exams.html Ultrasonix (Richmond, British Columbia) has released an optional HD video camera for the company's Sonix Ultrasound devices. When performing ultrasound exams, clinicians operating the machine are well aware of where the transducer is. But, if you want to review the imagery at a later time or pass it on to someone else for a second opinion, seeing synchronized video of the transducer being applied can be helpful in understanding the ultrasound. SonixCAM sits atop an adjustable flexi-arm and simultaneously records video in MPEG-1 format in parallel to the ultrasound itself. Post exam you can add titles to the video for easy archiving and durling playback you get picture-in-picture functionality. The system was unveiled last week at the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine Conv... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4735487 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 17:34:36 +0100 4735487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4725226&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Fmcgill_university_researcher_creates_the_worlds_first_intubation_robot.html Dr. Thomas M. Hemmerling, a McGill University professor who also happens to be the creator of the McSleepy automated anesthesia system, has created another device to assist anesthesiologists in the operating room. The Kepler Intubation System, or KIS, is the world's first intubation robot designed to facilitate the intubation procedure and reduce some complications associated with airway management. The device consists of a robotically mounted video-laryngoscope that is controlled by a joystick to accurately and effortlessly insert an endotracheal tube used during general anesthesia. Article from McGill University: Introducing the world's first intubation robot... (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4725226 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 08:50:58 +0100 4725226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4697926&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Fspectrashield_respirator_blocks_dust_bacteria_wins_fda_approval.html The FDA has cleared Nexera Medical's (Richmond, British Columbia) SpectraShield 9500 surgical respirator, a face mask the outside of which has been shown to kill three types of bacteria (Streptococcus pyogenes, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and Haemophilus influenzae). The device is also a certified N95 respirator, blocking at least 95% of dust particles. From the product page: • Superior filtration of N95 performance • Continuous protection against bacteria. • Exceeds the U.S. Center for Disease Control ("CDC") and World Health Organization ("WHO") guidelines for protection against infectious microbial threats such as Avian Influenza, SARS and Tuberculosis. • Patented proven technology incorporating a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EP... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4697926 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 17:53:20 +0100 4697926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4697927&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Fcontextvision_announces_new_us_plusview_image_enhancement_suites.html ContextVision AB (Stockholm, Sweden) has just announced its new US PLUSView line of ultrasound image enhancement suites, which the company claims will provide improved image enhancement over previous solutions. In addition to its superior speckle reduction and edge enhancement features, US PLUSView allows for deeper penetration. ContextVision claims this will facilitate better ultrasound imaging of overweight patients, which has traditionally been problematic for doctors. The US PLUSView line is based on ContextVision’s GOP technology, which has received FDA 510(k) clearance. From the product page: Following the global obesity epidemic, an increasing portion of all abdominal scans is considered technically difficult since obesity impacts the clinicians´ ability to interpret ultras... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4697927 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 15:58:19 +0100 4697927 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4693687&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Ftoshiba_expands_cardiac_ultrasound_offerings.html Toshiba is now introducing 3D Wall Motion Tracking and Tissue Enhancement technologies on its Aplio Artida (side image) cardiac ultrasound system. Additionally, Aplio MX (top image), Aplio XG and Xario XG ultrasounds are available with the Auto IMT feature for measuring intima-media thickness of the carotid artery. 3D Wall Motion Tracking, an industry first on the Artida, offers a new era of dyssynchrony imaging and advanced regional wall motion assessment. It aids electrophysiologists in optimizing pacemaker placement and function. It also shows 3D ejection fraction, volumes and regional and global strain function. A Toshiba-exclusive software, Tissue Enhancement has the ability to improve image uniformity and endocardial border delineation, especially in difficult-to-scan patients. Ava... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4693687 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 22:34:12 +0100 4693687 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4693688&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Fornims_noninvasive_continuous_blood_flow_monitoring_approved_in_us.html Ornim, headquartered in Santa Clarita, CA, has received FDA clearance for the firm's CerOx 3210F system to be used to monitor blood flow through tissue in adult patients. This clearance is on top of the one received in 2008 for hemoglobin oxygen saturation monitoring in the brain and skeletal muscles. According to the company, the light based system is the only non-invasive and continuous blood flow monitor available. From the technology page: Ornim’s patented UTL ightTM technology employs the interaction of light and sound to provide a non-invasive measure of blood oxygen saturation. UTLight technology is unique among all other commercially available NIRS products, as it confines the measurement to a well-defined sample volume and is mostly unaffected by such factors as skin pigme... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4693688 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:46:09 +0100 4693688 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4685550&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Frespir8_breathing_rate_monitor_wins_european_clearance.html Anaxsys Technology out of Surrey, UK received the European CE Mark of approval for its respiR8 continuous breathing rate monitor. The device works by detecting moisture that accumulates with each breath on a sensor inside a patient's oxygen mask. From the product page: Anaxsys patented sensor • The sensor responds rapidly and reversibly to moisture in exhaled breath. • Breath is saturated with water at body temperature and therefore as the patient exhales, moisture from the breath condenses on the sensor and a signal is obtained. • As the patient inhales, the air flow over the sensors dries off the moisture and the sensor returns to a baseline state. • In this way a series of curves are obtained and the firmware calculates the breathing rate in breaths per minute. El... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4685550 Thu, 07 Apr 2011 17:17:44 +0100 4685550 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4677370&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F04%2Fmedegrip_to_make_work_with_central_lines_ampules_other_devices_easier_and_safer.html Inserting central lines, breaking glass ampules, and many other daily tasks of a hospital nurse or an anesthesiologist can be brutal on the fingers, especially for older clinicians and those with arthritis. Matthew Ostroff, a PICC line nurse in New York, designed a simple but effective little device to help with removing Luer Loks from central lines and pin knots from peripheral IVs, as well as to make opening ampules safer. The MedeGrip is made of foam and provides two opposing surfaces to make grabbing onto small, rigid components more effective. This is a big improvement on the popular, but somewhat dangerous, technique of using a hemostat to grab onto the wings of endcaps and other small plastic devices. Moreover, breaking open glass ampules is responsible for about a quarter of all s... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4677370 Mon, 04 Apr 2011 16:09:36 +0100 4677370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4654026&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2Fcopilot_vl_video_laryngoscope_to_challenge_mcgrath_dominance.html Intubating a difficult airway, such as a trauma patient, or a patient with anterior larynx, or an individual who is status post radiation therapy to the neck, often presents a life and death challenge. To offer an alternative to the popular McGrath Series laryngoscopes, marketed by LMA, an anesthesiologist and nurse anesthetist decided to develop their own video device, the CoPilot VL that offers a few novel features, such as a patent-pending Bougie Port. According to Magaw LLC., the company making the device, disposable cover sheaths can be released with a push of a button and the video screen can stand on its own or be clamped to a pole for easy access. The $3,000 device should be available for purchase this summer, and you can get in line by filling out a pre-order form. From the produ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4654026 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 08:35:38 +0100 4654026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4654027&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2Faccess_scientific_powerwand_gets_fda_clearance.html Access Scientific, from San Diego, has received FDA clearance for its POWERWAND power-injectable vascular access cannula. As we reported before, the WAND cannulas can be used for central venous access, integrating everything necessary for a modified Seldinger technique into one device. The POWERWAND is purposed for extended-dwell and allows for power-injection of fluids or medication, but also for blood withdrawal. CE mark has also recently been obtained and initial distribution will start in Britain, Australia and South Africa. Preliminary results of the first clinical trial with the device will be presented at the Infusion Nurses Society annual meeting in May 2011. Press release: Access Scientific Gets FDA Clearance for POWERWAND... Product page: POWERWAND... (Source: Medgadget Anest... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4654027 Wed, 30 Mar 2011 08:00:17 +0100 4654027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4575711&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2Fsystem_automatically_delivers_anesthesia_medications_during_surgery.html A team of French anesthesiologists has developed an automatic delivery system of propofol and remifentanil, which they recently tested in a multi-center trial involving 196 surgical patients. The researchers reported in Anesthesia & Analgesia that the system, which uses a Bispectral Index (BIS) monitor as a guide, performed better than manual administration. We have developed a proportional-integral-derivative controller allowing the closed-loop coadministration of propofol and remifentanil, guided by a Bispectral Index (BIS) monitor, during induction and maintenance of general anesthesia. The controller was compared with manual target-controlled infusion. The controller allows the automated delivery of propofol and remifentanil and maintains BIS values in predetermined boundaries during... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4575711 Fri, 11 Mar 2011 17:55:28 +0100 4575711 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4561282&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F03%2Finspectra_sto2_spot_check_gets_cleared_in_us.html Having received European clearance 3 months ago, Hutchinson Technology's InSpectra StO2 Spot Check (model 300) has now received FDA regulatory approval for determining tissue oxygenation in those experiencing circulatory distress. As we noted last time, the device allows direct measurement of oxygen saturation in microcirculation, where oxygen is exchanged with tissues, hence it could be used for evaluation of regional, maybe even systemic perfusion in critically ill, in septic shock, etc. The InSpectra StO2 Spot Check (model 300) consists of a hand-held device, cable, reusable sensor, charging station and rechargeable battery. This product enables clinicians to quickly and cost-effectively identify at-risk patients. Once identified as having low StO2, patients can then be continuously mo... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4561282 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 11:25:02 +0100 4561282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4518089&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F02%2Fmindray_a5_anesthesia_device_gets_cleared_in_us.html Mindray out of Shenzhen, China has received 510(k) clearance from the FDA for its new A5 anesthesia machine. The device sports uncommon options such as a 15" touchscreen for selecting settings, as well as a central brake and an integrated cable sweeps for mobility: A5 is the first and only anesthesia machine that conforms to the IHE (Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise) Patient Care Domain (PCD) profile. At no additional charge, every A5 provides data output in the industry standard HL7 protocol. HL7, with the IHE PCD profile, is recognized among anesthesia information management systems (AIMS) and electronic medical records (EMR) systems as the demonstrated industry standard for unambiguous interoperability. The A5 provides a range of advanced ventilation modes enabling effective care... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4518089 Thu, 24 Feb 2011 08:55:13 +0100 4518089 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4513090&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F02%2Fnew_technique_to_noninvasively_measure_aortic_blood_pressure.html For more than a century, physicians have used a sphygmomanometer to measure the systolic and diastolic blood pressure in the brachial artery. The sphygmomanometer has evolved significantly over the past 100 years, but the theory behind measuring this important vital sign has remained unchanged. While one's brachial artery is the most common site to measure blood pressure, it it not the most reliable. Younger people, for example, have more compliant blood vessel walls that can give misleadingly high blood pressure. Older people have stiffer blood vessels which could give a misleadingly low blood pressure. In either case, such inaccurate readings can cause clinicians to administer improper meds or drips. CASP, or central aortic systolic pressure, is a much better indicator of cardiac healt... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4513090 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:00:03 +0100 4513090 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4490458&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F02%2Ftomtec_4d_mvassessment_20_gets_fda_go_for_analyzing_mitral_valve.html TomTec Imaging Systems out of Unterschleissheim, Germany received FDA clearance for its 4D MV-Assessment 2.0 software package. The application takes real-time three-dimensional echocardiography as an input and provides analysis of the state of the mitral valve within a minute. The new 4D MV-Assessment© 2.0 allows a dynamic analysis of the anatomical structures of the mitral valve, annulus and the closure line of the two leaflets. In addition to that, comprehensive measurements enable doctors to quantify pathological findings. Automated features and a completely revised workflow have considerably shortened examination times and deliver quantitative parameters for the doctor’s decision making in 20 seconds. Clinical Benefits Enhanced workflow: ready for clinical routine quanti... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4490458 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:57:54 +0100 4490458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4490459&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F02%2Fangiodynamics_expands_its_morpheus_smart_picc_line.html AngioDynamics of Latham, NY is launching a new Morpheus SMART PICC bedside insertion kit and new 5 French Dual Lumen Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC). The high performance Morpheus SMART PICC 5F Dual Lumen Smart PICC power-injectable catheter is designed to provide a superior flow rate of 5 mL/second for purposes of CT imaging. This performance upgrade complements AngioDynamics' advanced catheter shaft technology, which couples the pushability needed for PICC placement with pliability that minimizes the risk of vessel trauma and phlebitis. It also employs Smart Taper™ technology, which is designed to reduce the risk of thrombosis by allowing the catheter's diameter to quickly taper from seven French to a precise five French. Morpheus SMART PICC bedside insertion kit in... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4490459 Thu, 17 Feb 2011 08:50:57 +0100 4490459 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4455950&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F02%2Frhinochill_noninvasive_head_cooling_system_poised_for_european_market_introduction.html BeneChill (San Diego, CA) has partnered with Medtronic's Physio-Control division to release the RhinoChill IntraNasal Cooling System in Europe. As the name implies, RhinoChill cools the head and body via a nasal catheter and is designed for fast application on patients status post cardiac arrest, stroke or traumatic brain injury. The companies have also announced plans to develop "additional applications for BeneChill and work towards making the RhinoChill System available in the U.S." More about the RhinoChill from a Medtronic press release: The RhinoChill System uses a non-invasive nasal catheter that sprays a rapidly evaporating, inert coolant liquid into the nasal cavity, a large area situated beneath the brain that acts as a heat exchanger. As the liquid evaporates, heat is directly... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4455950 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 16:29:03 +0100 4455950 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4446529&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F02%2Fmobisantes_mobius_smartphone_ultrasound_receives_fda_510k_clearance.html Cellphones have come a long way with the rise of the smartphone. What used to be simply a means of making phone calls remotely, now is the way by which we can send emails, text messages, photos, and...acquire fetal images! You can thank Redmond, Washington-based Mobisante for that last one, because it has announced that its MobiUS ultrasound imaging system has received FDA approval to be marketed in the United States. MobiUS is the world's first smartphone-based commercial ultrasound system. It consists of an ultrasound probe and a Toshiba Windows Mobile-powered smartphone with Mobisante's software on it. Since the system is based on smartphones, it is extremely portable and very affordable compared to traditional ultrasound systems. In addition, it can utilize the cellular network and W... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4446529 Mon, 07 Feb 2011 21:58:06 +0100 4446529 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419823&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2Fintravascular_continuous_glucose_monitoring_from_invivosense.html We've featured continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices on Medgadget before, but they had the disadvantage of being subcutaneous, and it's unclear how long the subcutaneous reading takes to catch up to the actual blood glucose level. A new device from InvivoSense, a company based in Norway, is inserted through a central line port and measures, in real-time, the glucose concentration in the blood. This could help us to more accurately study the effect of "tight" vs. "permissive" glucose control. The studies so far on this subject have been contradictory, and part of the reason may be that glucose is normally measured only hourly at the most. The sensor uses a new technological approach based on the shrinking and swelling of a boronic acid–incorporated hydrogel when exposed to vario... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419823 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:02:17 +0100 4419823 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4419824&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2Fdblade_from_karl_storz_improves_view_in_difficult_airway.html The "difficult airway," when a good view of the glottis cannot be easily obtained, can be a nightmare for even the most experienced anesthesiologist. The advent of video laryngoscopy has helped this situation, and a new attachment for Karl Storz' C-MAC system, the D-BLADE, looks promising to advance the state of the art even further. This blade is more curved than most video laryngoscope blades, which is supposed to bring the vocal cords into view more easily. An article in the latest Anesthesia and Analgesia evaluated this new device, and found that it did as well or better than a traditional Macintosh blade in routine intubations. The real test came when the study authors had a poor view with a Macintosh blade. In these patients, the D-BLADE improved the view from a C/L view 3 or 4 to a... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4419824 Mon, 31 Jan 2011 08:49:43 +0100 4419824 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4394787&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2Fnew_mobile_puritan_bennett_ventilator_for_eu.html Covidien is launching its new Puritan Bennett 520 ventilator to the European market. The unit weighs 4.5kg, runs on lithium ion batteries, and is meant to be used for patients who need support only part of the day and for mobile applications. The Puritan Bennett 520 ventilator is compact, lightweight (4.5 kg) and portable. It provides reliable mobile respiratory support for adult and pediatric patients who require mechanical ventilation for portions of the day or night or need transitional ventilator support.Complementing the recently launched Puritan Bennett 560 ventilator, the Puritan Bennett 520 ventilator is designed to maximize freedom and flexibility for patients and caregivers, with a lithium ion battery that provides up to five hours of power. The Puritan Bennett 520 ventilator h... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4394787 Mon, 24 Jan 2011 18:19:39 +0100 4394787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4383301&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2Flancet_study_shows_device_augmented_cpr_may_improve_survival.html A few years ago we wrote about the punnily named ResQPOD, pictured on top, an impedance-threshold device that prevents air from re-entering the lungs to assist with cardiac filling. The Lancet has just published a study comparing standard CPR to CPR using ResQPod combined with another assist device called the ResQPump (side below), both from Advanced Circulatory Systems, Inc (Roseville, MN). From the abstract: Findings 2470 provisionally enrolled patients were randomly allocated to treatment groups. 813 (68%) of 1201 patients assigned to the standard CPR group (controls) and 840 (66%) of 1269 assigned to intervention CPR received designated CPR and were included in the final analyses. 47 (6%) of 813 controls survived to hospital discharge with favourable neurological function compared ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4383301 Fri, 21 Jan 2011 19:36:25 +0100 4383301 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4378353&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2Fcasmed_foresight_now_for_monitoring_of_skeletal_muscles_in_children.html CASMED of Branford, Connecticut has received FDA clearance for the company's FORE-SIGHT Absolute Tissue Oximeter to be used as a monitoring tool of regional oxygenation of skeletal musculature in children between 5 and 50 Kg. The device was previously approved for monitoring of blood oxygen saturation in the brain in critical care and intraoperative cases. From the product page: Accurate, reliable, absolute: Unique 4 wavelength, LASER-SIGHT® Optical Technology and patented algorithm deliver accurate, reliable, absolute measurements. Spot check: Instantly evaluate a patient’s cerebral oxygen saturation status. Ideal for identifying compromised patients in a variety of clinical settings. Non-invasive and continuous: Optimal for use in perioperative settings for continuous, non-... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4378353 Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:28:49 +0100 4378353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4350135&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2Fastronauts_vigilance_and_gorillas_-_opening_session_of_sta_2011.html Medgadget editor Paul Pisklak, M.D., an anesthesia resident at Baylor, is attending the annual meeting of Society for Technology in Anesthesia. Here's his first report. The keynote speaker at this year's Society for Technology in Anesthesia conference at The Venetian in Las Vegas was Colonel Jim Bagian, M.D., P.E., a physician and astronaut. Dr. Bagian gave a talk cleverly entitled "Patient Safety: It's Not Rocket Science." His unique broad view of the aviation and healthcare industries gives him a special insight into the subject at hand. The main thrust of his argument is that a large percentage of adverse events that happen in hospitals are human and communication errors, i.e., misuse of the technology that we already have. One example he gave was from his former role as a VA safety... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4350135 Fri, 14 Jan 2011 15:28:52 +0100 4350135 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4305220&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2011%2F01%2Fcpr_pro_from_ivor_medical_for_iphone.html Knowing how to perform CPR correctly is only one part of actually doing it right. Proper timing and depth of compressions is hard to maintain, and simply keeping one's mind focused on proper steps can be a challenge in a hectic situation. Our former editor Ivor Kovic has developed an iPhone app (and a special cradle) that can teach CPR techniques and provide guidance during an emergency situation. Here's a video Ivor made specifically for Medgadget audience explaining and demonstrating the CPR PRO: Product page: CPR PRO App... iTunes link: CPR PRO (pssst... we have 20 promo codes for free downloads of CPR PRO. The first people to leave a comment at the end of this post with their email address will get one.) (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4305220 Mon, 03 Jan 2011 17:19:23 +0100 4305220 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4281893&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2Fthree_new_puritan_bennett_ventilators_coming_to_us.html Covidien has just announced that it is releasing three variations of its Puritan Bennett 840 ventilator to the US market: The Puritan Bennett 840 Neonatalventilator helps clinicians safely deliver, manage and monitor a ventilation regimen tailored for even the smallest and most critically ill neonatal patients. It offers the ability to set a tidal volume as small as 2 mL for neonates weighing as little as 300 grams without having to change to another ventilator. The Puritan Bennett 840 Universalventilator for every patient type, from neonatal to adult, includes a neonatal CPAP mode that enables clinicians to flexibly deploy noninvasive ventilation in neonates. It supports patient-ventilator synchrony, which has been shown to facilitate spontaneous breathing. The ventilator includes featu... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4281893 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 08:00:01 +0100 4281893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4275602&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2Fcarefusions_new_lightweight_enve_ventilator.html CareFusion has unveiled its new 9.5 pound (4.3 Kg) portable ventilator. The EnVe is a full featured pediatric/adult device that can handle intubated and non-invasive or mask-ventilated patients. From the product page: The EnVe™ Ventilator from CareFusion is a comprehensive, full featured pediatric - adult critical care ventilator. The patented ActivCore™ gas delivery system with unprecedented miniaturization allows a single ventilator to deliver true, high-end critical care ventilation - invasive and noninvasively. The modular design of the EnVe system allows you to detach the ventilator and move with your patient through care areas reducing the need for circuit disconnections and maintaining their level of ventilation. With the EnVe Ventilator, your clinicians won't have to c... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4275602 Mon, 20 Dec 2010 18:50:33 +0100 4275602 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4246101&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2Fverso_90_respiratory_airway_adapter_to_help_prevent_airway_infections.html This is not the most high tech device we have ever profiled, but it can save lives, so here's an introduction to a new airway adapter from CareFusion: The new Verso 90 adapter is part of the AirLife™ Closed-Suction System which is different from traditional closed-suction catheters because of its modularity. With this system, a clinician can change catheters or perform various airway access procedures through a single port without having to disconnect the patient from the ventilator. This leads to increased patient safety because disconnecting a patient from the ventilator circuit can lead to lung derecruitment, which in some patients, may result in atelectasis or hypoxemia. In addition, keeping a closed system when changing catheters or performing bronchoscopies, reduces the risk ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4246101 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 19:27:03 +0100 4246101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4246102&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F12%2Finspectra_sto2_spot_check_tissue_perfusion_monitor_gets_european_clearance.html Hutchinson Technology Inc. out of Hutchinson, Minnesota has received European regulatory approval for the InSpectra StO2 Spot Check (model 300) device. The company's tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) technology allows direct measurement of oxygen saturation in microcirculation, where oxygen is exchanged with tissues, hence it could be used for evaluation of regional, maybe even systemic perfusion in critically ill, in septic shock, etc. From the announcement: The InSpectra StO2 Spot Check (model 300) consists of a hand-held device, cable, reusable sensor, charging station and rechargeable battery. These features enable clinicians to quickly and cost-effectively identify at-risk patients, who can then be continuously monitored with the InSpectra™ StO2 Tissue Oxygenation Monitor (model... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4246102 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:38:45 +0100 4246102 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4197625&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2Fccnexfin_monitors_bp_co_hemoglobin_spo2.html BMEYE out of Amsterdam, the Netherlands won FDA approval to bring to U.S. market its ccNexfin cardiovascular patient monitor. The device features noninvasive cardiovascular monitoring of blood pressure, cardiac output, and includes Masimo's rainbow SET Pulse CO-Oximetry for continuous hemoglobin and oxygen saturation monitoring. Hemodynamic monitoring has traditionally relied upon invasive, costly, intermittent, or unreliable methods to assist clinicians in maintaining adequate oxygen delivery and tissue perfusion to prevent hypoxia and its irreversible damage. However, the ccNexfin with Masimo rainbow SET offers a totally noninvasive method of providing some of the most advanced cardiovascular and hemodynamic monitoring capabilities available today. It utilizes a BMEYE finger cuff to cap... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4197625 Wed, 24 Nov 2010 08:49:16 +0100 4197625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4191295&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2Fpelorus_1000_propofol_analyzer_gets_european_approval.html While propofol is slowly moving through Drug Enforcement Administration's bureaucracy to become a Schedule IV substance within the next couple of months, an "imminent" decision according to many sources, medical device manufacturers are working on blood analyzers for the substance. Sphere Medical, from Cambridge, UK, has just announced CE Marking for the Pelorus 1000, the world's first commercially available propofol analyser. The device is not yet indicated for clinical care, so it is not to be used for dose adjustments in operating rooms or ICUs, but as CEO of the company Stuart Hendry said, "I am extremely pleased that Sphere has been able to bring this innovation to the market following successful clinical trials earlier this year some of which were published at the ASA. We are alread... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4191295 Tue, 23 Nov 2010 16:38:44 +0100 4191295 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4191296&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2Faria_portable_patient_monitor_with_masimos_rainbow_set_pulse_cooximetry.html Pooyandegan Rah Saadat (aka Saadat), a company out of Tehran, Iran, has received the European CE Mark for its Aria portable patient monitor. The device features Masimo's rainbow SET Pulse CO-Oximetry and, according to a joint press release, it is the first portable monitor to do so. The portable device separates from the larger stationary unit to be used while transporting patients between different clinical wards. Considering the last 30 years of the Washington/Tehran relationship, chances of seeing this device in the U.S. any time soon are rather slim. We also remember hearing something about embargoes and sanctions, but here's an example of an American company doing business with Iran. We're thinking it must be a medical exception. Reader comments explaining this are welcome below. A... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4191296 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:38:57 +0100 4191296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4155782&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2Fhybrid_ors_from_maquet.html The objective is to adapt the room concept and the technical equipment optimally to the work-flow in the OR. This means that, for instance, for the combination of workplace for heart surgery and cardiology, optimal working conditions for both disciplines must be maintained. For this purpose, the positioning of the OR table, the angiography equipment and the other systems are coordinated with the interdisciplinary OR team to achieve optimum workflow. To learn more about Maquet's Hybrid ORs, here are the links: HYBRID-OR FROM A TO Z (.pdf); Hybrid Operating Theaters: Twice the asset (.pdf) (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4155782 Thu, 11 Nov 2010 18:18:23 +0100 4155782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4140885&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2Fthe_anaconda_brings_volatile_anesthetics_to_the_icu_1.html Traditionally, if you need to sedate an intubated patient in the ICU, the go-to agents are midazolam or propofol. However, waking these patients up when trying to extubate can be a lengthy ordeal due to the long half-time and accumulation of these drugs. Volatile anesthetics like isofluorane or sevofluorane, usually used in the operating room, have a much quicker wake-up time, but the size and cost of an anesthesia machine make them impractical for use in the ICU. Sedana Medical (Uppsala, Sweden) seems to have overcome this limitation with the introduction of the AnaConDa (Anesthetic Conserving Device). The device features a syringe pump that delivers Isofluorane or Sevofluorane to a small carbon-fiber device which goes in-line with a traditional ICU ventilator. In many ways, this can be ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4140885 Fri, 05 Nov 2010 21:40:51 +0100 4140885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4135150&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2Fge_healthcare_gets_fda_clearance_for_carescape_b650_patient_monitor.html GE Healthcare has announced this morning an FDA clearance for the company's new souped up clinical monitor, CARESCAPE B650. A company representative tells Medgadged that this is "a major launch following years of clinical development and testing." The top benefits of the CARESCAPE Monitor B650 include data integration and connectivity, monitor mobility, and consistency between care areas. Traditionally, hospitals have generally implemented patient monitors on a care area by care area basis, making it difficult to connect disparate systems across the clinical setting. To address this challenge, GE Healthcare now offers an integrated, enterprise-wide patient monitoring platform consisting of the new, flexible CARESCAPE Monitor B650 and the recently introduced CARESCAPE Monitor B850 for the ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4135150 Wed, 03 Nov 2010 19:22:44 +0100 4135150 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4126483&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F11%2Fges_new_and_improved_vivid_e9_cardiovascular_ultrasound_system_cleared_by_fda.html GE Healthcare has announced FDA 510(k) clearance for the latest iteration of its Vivid E9 cardiovascular ultrasound system. In addition to enhanced image quality and better quantification of heart function, the new Vivid E9 is the first cardiovascular ultrasound system with the ability to simultaneously capture up to 12 slices of the heart. A list of improvements from the press release: Better Image Quality A new high bandwidth 4V-D transducer, significantly smaller than its 3V-D predecessor, yet more powerful, with improved 2D and 4D image quality and the ability to scan in all modes, including CW Doppler A new 12S-D transducer for the smallest of neonatal patients, helping enhance a portfolio of pediatric echo transducers available for Vivid E9 Improved performance and expanded applic... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4126483 Tue, 02 Nov 2010 14:06:18 +0100 4126483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4109365&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2Fiu22_xmatrix_ultrasound_system_from_philips.html Please meet iU22 xMATRIX, a new spiffed up ultrasound system from Philips designed to deliver "improved textural pattern recognition, superb discrimination of micro-structures near, mid and far, and outstanding image resolution." So, what's inside the device, you might ask? To start with, the system is designed to work in tandem with the company's newest X6-1 PureWave xMATRIX transducer. X6-1 features 9,212 active elements, which is 35 times more elements than today's conventional transducers, according to Philips. Then there is more, thanks to a new generation of electronics and software: The iU22 xMATRIX makes it easy to add 3D imaging to any exam by removing the barriers to volume imaging. And a host of workflow enhancers facilitate faster exams, enabling image optimization with just t... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4109365 Fri, 29 Oct 2010 08:00:01 +0100 4109365 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4109366&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2Fmirador_gets_fda_ok_for_two_needle_pressure_devices.html Here's an interesting simple technology that might come handy to anesthesiologists and others who tend to do lots of central lines. Making sure that you are not in a carotid (or subclavian or femoral arteries, etc) is not always as simple as many think. Sure, you can do a blood color comparison. You can also connect a vertical column, and see how far the blood will rise. But why to do these maneuvers, if you can have something at the end of a finder needle that does not add steps to your procedure? Meet Mirador Biomedical of Seattle, Washington that has just received FDA's 510(k) clearance for its Compass Vascular Access pressure measurement device, as well as a similarly designed Compass Lumbar Puncture pressure monitor. From the Compass Vascular Access product page: Focus on the Proced... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4109366 Thu, 28 Oct 2010 11:00:04 +0100 4109366 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4100654&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2Fvirtual_reality_simulation_for_cpr_training.html Italian clinical researchers from Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care at Ospedale Maggiore in Bologna and Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, Pisa, have developed a virtual reality simulator to help people learn how to perform CPR correctly. To create the system, the researchers used a Laerdal HeartSim 4000 mannequin tied into a computer powering a headset VR. The Mini-VREM project is currently looking for funding via IndieGoGo crowdsourcing site. Project @ IndieGoGo: Mini-VREM... Related abstract in Resuscitation (April 2009): Virtual reality enhanced mannequin (VREM) that is well received by resuscitation experts Flashbacks: BabySim for Infant Emergencies; SimMan 3G Patient Simulator Gets a Serious Upgrade; CPR Anytime for Family and Friends (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4100654 Mon, 25 Oct 2010 08:00:02 +0100 4100654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4089095&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2Ftrachassist_gunk_collection_system_doesnt_break_the_circuit.html Mergenet Medical out of Coconut Creek, Florida launched the Trach-Assist airway secretion management system. The company claims its device will "significantly reduce the need for ventilator circuit changes." The Trach-Assist (R) is designed for use between a endotracheal/tracheostomy tube and a closed suction system. The airway secretions are collected in a special reservoir of the Trach-Assist (R) allowing clinicians to easily remove them with the installed closed suction catheter without breaking the circuit. Circuit "breaks" have been identified as major risk factors of Ventilator Associated Pneumonia (VAP) as well as lung de-recruitment and hypoxemia. Product page: Trach Assist Press release: Mergenet Medical Launches Trach-Assist(R) First Airway Secretion Management System of Its ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4089095 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 09:20:18 +0100 4089095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4089096&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2Fepidrum_system_refines_identification_of_epidural_space.html Anyone who has been around junior residents in anesthesiology on their first day in the L&D suite knows the risk of the dreaded "wet tap" - inadvertent dural puncture during attempted epidural access can lead to headaches (for the patient and the doctor), the need for a blood patch, and possible neurological damage. The traditionally taught method is "loss of resistance," but it is quite subjective. The EpiDrum, from Exmoor Innovations (Taunton, UK), aims to change that. From the company website: The Epidrum is an optimal, constant, low pressure LOR device to facilitate epidural procedures. Interposed between needle and syringe, the device is charged with air to expand its diaphragm. When the needle is advanced, the sudden collapse of the diaphragm signals the needle's penetration into th... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4089096 Fri, 22 Oct 2010 08:00:43 +0100 4089096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4089097&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2Fmasimos_continuous_hemoglobin_monitor_helps_reduce_blood_transfusions.html We've reported on Masimo's noninvasive hemoglobin monitor, part of Masimo Rainbow SET, here on Medgadget in the past. The idea of monitoring hemoglobin in real time and without the need to draw blood is very attractive in the OR and ICU settings, but does it work? According to results of a trial released at the annual meeting of the American Society of Anesthesiologists this week, the answer is a resounding yes! In the study, Masimo's device helped reduce blood tranfusions in orthopedic surgery patients by an astounding 86 percent. Patients received either the "standard of care" (using blood draws) or the continuous hemoglobin measurement along with the blood draws to guide transfusion therapy. Of the 327 total patients, seven in the standard group and only one in the Masimo group receive... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4089097 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 20:15:25 +0100 4089097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4089098&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2Freletex_a_drugfree_antinausea_neuromodulation_system.html Wrist stimulators have been used for post op nausea and vomiting by anesthesiologists for many years now. Even though these devices are not the most effective or cost effective of therapies, if properly targeted for specific high risk patients, such wrist stims can be used as adjuncts for treatment of nausea and vomiting. Chicago based Neurowave Medical Technologies is releasing the Reletex, a new wrist-worn neuromodulation device. To be used as an adjunct to anti-emetics, the FDA cleared device generates electrical signals that affect the brain's perception of nausea. More about how the device works from the product page: Reletex™ generates a proprietary programmed pulse that stimulates the neurons in the median nerve pathway creating an action potential. The cascading action pote... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4089098 Thu, 21 Oct 2010 17:54:34 +0100 4089098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4067905&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F10%2Fmasimo_to_release_new_halo_index_radical_7_pulse_oximeter_patient_safetynet_monitoring_system.html Masimo next week will be unveiling three new products at the American Society of Anesthesiologists Annual Conference in San Diego. The Radical-7 features SET pulse oximetry and the ability to add total hemoglobin (SpHb), total arterial oxygen content (SpOC), carboxyhemoglobin (SpCO), methemoglobin (SpMet), and PVI options. The Patient SafetyNet allows clinicians to keep an eye on up to 80 Masimo monitors and features the new Halo index, "a dynamic new indicator that facilitates continuous global trending and assessment of multiple physiological parameters to quantify changes in patient status." Halo provides a simple readout ranging from 1 to 10, giving clinicians a quick assessment on each patient throughout the ward. Features of the Radical-7: rainbow®Acoustic Monitoring for accu... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4067905 Thu, 14 Oct 2010 17:32:42 +0100 4067905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3994913&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F09%2Fpropaq_m_vital_signs_monitor_for_military_medicine.html ZOLL Medical has received FDA approval for the Propaq M monitor, a monitor only version of the recently released Propaq MD. The user interface and connections are identical to the MD version, but it loses the defibrillation option, resulting in a more compact and mobile package. Like the Propaq MD, it has been designed for military and air medical use, resulting in a smaller, rugged, long-lasting model, able to withstand extremely fine sand and jets of water. From the press release: The Propaq M is a new ultra-lightweight, compact device that combines highly sophisticated, advanced capabilities with the well-accepted and proven features of the Propaq monitors. New features of the Propaq M include 12-lead monitoring, a third invasive pressure channel, extensive trending and data collection... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3994913 Thu, 23 Sep 2010 19:10:10 +0100 3994913 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3974050&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F09%2Fmedivance_announces_new_arctic_sun_5000_temperature_management_system.html Louisville, CO based Medivance, Inc. has announced 510(k) clearance of the Arctic Sun 5000, the newest iteration of the company's patient cooling system. The new device can cool patients faster than previous models, features a programmable interface with built in tutorial, and can record and store patient data while cooling. From the press release: The non-invasive Arctic Sun 5000 precisely monitors and maintains core body temperature in a therapeutic range, between 32 and 38.5 degrees Celsius (approximately 89.6 to 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit) with the potential to minimize damage to the heart and brain. The patented design of the Arctic Sun and ArcticGel™ Pads enables them to transfer up to five times more thermal energy than conventional products such as water blankets, wraps or i... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3974050 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 09:30:25 +0100 3974050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3970049&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F09%2Flung_navigation_system_from_superdimension_wants_to_extend_the_reach_of_bronchoscope.html Here's a fact. Even the most experienced clinicians among us, whether thoracic surgeons, pulmonologists, intensivists or anesthesiologists, can get confused performing a bronchoscopy. That's why we like to move up and down through airways making sure we know where we are. And if we are not certain whether we are looking at carina or some other bifurcation, then things get progressively confusing in secondary airways and beyond. An Israeli startup superDimension, Ltd. wants to add navigation guidance to bronchoscopies and mediastinal biopsies with its system , called superDimension i•Logic™, that sports interesting software guidance and proprietary hardware. Here's how the company describes its technology and possible applications on superDimension's Facebook page : With the i&... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3970049 Wed, 15 Sep 2010 19:41:13 +0100 3970049 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3962685&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F09%2Ftranscontinental_anesthesia.html Just two weeks after we reported on teleanesthesia in the form of remotely performed nerve blocks, the first report of transcontinental anesthesia comes in. On August 30, anesthesiologists of McGill-McGill University Health Centre in Montreal, kept watch over a patient in Pisa, Italy undergoing thyroid gland surgery. Basically they used a teleconferencing set-up with four cameras, with two cameras streaming the anesthesia data (ventilation parameters and vital signs), one camera aimed at the operating field and the last one for any special purposes. All feeds were streamed to an "anesthesia cockpit" where the anesthesiologists were sitting, while we imagine there was probably still a nurse anesthetist around in Pisa to obey their commands and control the drips. Airway assessment and taking... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3962685 Mon, 13 Sep 2010 08:00:01 +0100 3962685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3955516&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F09%2Fbk_medicals_new_surgical_ultrasound.html BK Medical, Analogic Corporation's daughter firm, has released a new ultrasound in its portable Flex Focus line. The Flex Focus 700 is specifically designed for operating rooms, featuring a large 19 inch touchscreen along with touch controls on the bezel. There's even an optional remote control to operate the unit from a distance. More from BK Medical about the new ultrasound: The system's 19-inch screen displays sharp laparoscopic, intraoperative, and percutaneous images, with detail that is visible from virtually any angle. The Flex Focus 700 is small, lightweight, and supports a wide range of sterilizable transducers. * Remote control* — for control within the sterile area. * Touch screen — with a simplified control panel. * Touch control panel. * Completely mobil... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3955516 Fri, 10 Sep 2010 20:56:12 +0100 3955516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3925305&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F09%2Fintraosseous_fastx_burrs_into_manubrium_bone_marrow_when_all_else_fails_1.html Pyng Medical out of Richmond, British Columbia has received US regulatory approval to market the FASTx Sternal Intraosseous Device that provides quick vascular access via bone marrow. Features of the device from the product page: Vascular access within 10 seconds; fluids and medications to the heart in 30 seconds Automatic depth control prevents over-penetration Delivers fluids and medications as quickly as a central line, with shorter access time Can be inserted during other resuscitation procedures Can deliver any fluids or medications that can be delivered via IV For use in adolescents from 12 years of age and older Designed for single, sterile use—no cross-contamination Flexible tubing with subcutaneous portal; strain-relief target foot ensures line does not dislodge Can be ins... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3925305 Thu, 02 Sep 2010 17:10:13 +0100 3925305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3913660&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F08%2Fafter_robotic_surgery_comes_robotic_anesthesiology.html Robotic surgery is nothing new, but after the surgeon has been eliminated from the OR, you are still left with the gasman. In one of the first efforts to make teleanesthesia a reality (apart from several telemonitoring efforts), researchers from the University of Florida demonstrate the possibility of a robotically assisted simulated nerve block placement under ultrasound guidance in this month's issue of Anesthesia & Analgesia. They used the well known da Vinci surgical robot to perform the procedure. The ultrasound head still had to be manually positioned and the subject was only a phantom, but the procedure was successful. The high price and the need to still have a physician present in case of complications mean that you are not likely to see this happen in practice anytime soon, but i... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3913660 Mon, 30 Aug 2010 05:09:28 +0100 3913660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3908664&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F08%2Faccelerometers_in_medicine_pocketcpr_with_analog_devices_imems.html Analog Devices, Inc., a developer and manufacturer of MEMS and digital signal processing technologies from Norwood, Mass, has just announced that its high performance iMEMS accelerometer enables Zoll Medical's new palm-sized CPR device to measure the rate and depth of chest compressions administered by rescuers. If you've been living in the woods around Norwood, Mass, and still don't know, PocketCPR, as the product is called, is a $149 assistance device that has a chronometer and a voice output to guide anyone to perform CPR correctly, step-by-step and in real time. And as we have reported before, Zoll Medical also offers its technology via software for the iPhone, that does pretty much the same thing, by using iPhone's built-in accelerometer to perform the measurements. Check out the pro... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3908664 Fri, 27 Aug 2010 18:54:31 +0100 3908664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3900562&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F08%2Ftrilogy200_a_new_light_weight_portable_ventilator_from_philips_respironics.html Philips Respironics is releasing a new portable ventilator for adult and pediatric patients above five kilos. The Trilogy200 provides up to six hours of life support on one set of batteries which can be hot swapped for indefinite use. From a press release obtained by Medgadget: Using a new single-limb circuit and proximal flow sensor, Trilogy200 offers improved triggering and leak compensation that allows for more sensitive delivery of therapy. This added sensitivity decreases work of breathing resulting in greater therapy comfort, better ventilation and improved patient/ventilator synchrony.1/2 Weighing only 11 pounds and featuring a unique six-hour battery system of internal and easy-to-swap detachable batteries, Trilogy200 gives patients and their families a new level of freedom. &qu... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3900562 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:20:13 +0100 3900562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3900563&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F08%2Fprelude_skinprep_system_does_well_in_clinical_trial.html Echo Therapeutics out of Franklin, Mass has completed a clinical trial of its Prelude SkinPrep System and is planning to ask for approval from the FDA, according to the statement released by the company. The device is meant to permeate the skin in preparation for transdermal protein (or large molecule) drug delivery or maybe for taking prick-free blood glucose readings sometime in the future. This clinical study was designed to evaluate the ability of Prelude to ablate the skin prior to the application of OTC 4% lidocaine cream for faster-acting local dermal anesthesia. As a result of the clinical trial, Echo now expects the submission of a 510(k) premarket notification to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the near future. The blinded comparison study evaluated the ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3900563 Wed, 25 Aug 2010 16:15:36 +0100 3900563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3896848&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F08%2Fflight_60_portable_ventilator_gets_us_approval.html Globes, Israel's business newspaper, is reporting that Flight Medical has received FDA marketing approval for the Flight 60 portable ventilator. The device is intended for at-home, hospital, and mobile applications and will run on its two internal batteries for up to 12 hours. Features from the product brochure: Supporting Broad Range of Applications The Flight 60 supports all common ventilation modes, from infants (>10Kg) to adults. Exhalation Volume Measurement Exhalation volume measurement enable better adaptation of ventilation parameters to actual patient needs. Compact and lightweight Weighing 6.3Kg, Flight 60 is ideal for home care, long term care and transport applications. The Flight 60 portability extends critical care capabilities while on the move, or anywhere out of the h... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3896848 Tue, 24 Aug 2010 19:30:07 +0100 3896848 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3869609&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F08%2Frhinochill_intra-nasal_cooling_system_effectively_chills_brain_after_cardiac_arrest.html It has been known for a while now that cooling the body after cardiac arrest improves neurological outcome, and therapeutic hypothermia has become a standard measure in many hospitals. However, in a study in this month's Circulation, a new nasopharyngeal device was used to initiate cooling during cardiac arrest. The RhinoChill Intra-Nasal Cooling System from BeneChill (San Diego, CA) uses a non-invasive nasal catheter that sprays a rapidly evaporating coolant liquid into the nasal cavity, adjacent to the major vascular structures of the brain. The system is compact, battery operated and easy and fast to insert, making it more practical in emergency situations than surface or intravascular cooling devices. In the study witnessed cardiac arrest patients were randomized to either intra-arres... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3869609 Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:25:47 +0100 3869609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3809688&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F08%2Fboston_scientific_announces_fda_approval_of_two_precision_plus_scs_leads.html Boston Scientific is in the news again, this time announcing FDA approval of two spinal cord stimulation (SCS) leads for use with its Precision Plus System. The Precision Plus, used in the management of chronic intractable pain, provides spinal cord stimulation from an implantable pulse generator via flexible leads. The Linear 3-4 and Linear 3-6 Percutaneous Leads recently approved allow wider contact spacing, expanding the range currently available and giving physicians greater flexibility in lead configuration. Boston Scientific touts its product's remote control and automatic impedance adjustment, taking into account the body's gradual encapsulation of the device leads to deliver a steady amount of current. Press release: Boston Scientific Announces FDA Approval of New Leads for the ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3809688 Mon, 02 Aug 2010 19:00:56 +0100 3809688 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3796006&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2Fhemobiotech_patents_a_new_treatment_for_acute_blood_loss_a_chemically_modified_hemoglobin.html HemoBioTech, Inc. (Dallas, TX) has announced that it has been granted a patent for "Methods of Treating Acute Blood Loss." The treatment described by the patent utilizes the company's HemoTech solution, which can substitute for red blood cells by carrying oxygen in the blood, and which has been shown to stimulate formation of new red blood cells. From the press release: HemoTech is composed of bovine hemoglobin, which is chemically modified with ATP, Adenosine and GSH, to overcome toxicity. HemoTech has been used successfully in an initial clinical study to treat children afflicted with sickle cell anemia, with no apparent side effects. HemoTech stabilizes a cell factor called Hif-1 alpha, which results in induction of erythropoietin, which stimulates an increase in production of new red... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3796006 Wed, 28 Jul 2010 15:12:54 +0100 3796006 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3765104&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2Falcoholic_iv_caps_keep_catheter_connections_germ_free.html Catheter Connections, a Salt Lake CIty, Utah company, has received FDA regulatory approval for its DualCap disinfecting tool to prevent contamination of IV tubing ends. The single use device has two caps containing isopropyl alcohol: one for the needleless injection site and one for the male luer end of IV tubing. The company claims that this simple device has been shown to "significantly reduce the bacterial contamination associated with catheter related blood stream infections" Press release: CATHETER CONNECTIONS RECEIVES 510(k) CLEARANCE FROM FDA FOR DUALCAP VASCULAR ACCESS DISINFECTING CAP... Product page: DualCap ... (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3765104 Mon, 19 Jul 2010 16:44:35 +0100 3765104 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3751399&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2Fsonosite_releases_enhanced_needle_visualization_for_deep_injection_procedures_and_blocks.html Guiding a long needle to its target deep within the body can be a tricky business, but ultrasound has been a helpful modality for decades for physicians to see where they're going. Because of the nature of ultrasound, the needle disappears from the screen when viewed from certain angles, often blinding the clinician just at the moment of truth. SonoSite has identified this as a serious problem and has been working for the last two years to develop algorithms that can identify the needle from any angle. By simply pressing a button on the machine, these special algorithms are engaged and the needle lights up on the screen (see below). Now peripheral nerve blocks should be a cinch using the Enhanced Needle Visualization technology that's being built into SonoSite's line of ultrasounds. Pr... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3751399 Wed, 14 Jul 2010 16:48:43 +0100 3751399 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3747650&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F07%2Fsecuracath_universal_subcutaneous_catheter_securement_system_gets_fda_clearance.html Interrad Medical, from Plymouth, Minnesota, has received FDA clearance for its SecurAcath Universal Subcutaneous Catheter Securement System. It is a device for holding indwelling catheters in place, using a small subcutaneous anchor instead of sutures or adhesives. Two years ago, a catheter featuring the system was already introduced, but with the standalone device the system can now be used with virtually any catheter. According to Interrad, the design allows for improved catheter site cleaning and minimizes catheter motion which may reduce catheter-related infections. Additionally, the catheter can be easily repositioned. Earlier the device was already approved in Europe and Canada. It is available in 5F and 7F sizes with more sizes to follow in the coming months. Instructional video fo... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3747650 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 09:46:44 +0100 3747650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3711589&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2Fneurosense_cortical_eeg_analyzer_gets_eu_green_light.html MedCity News is reporting that NeuroWave Systems of Cleveland Heights, Ohio has received the European CE Mark for its NeuroSENSE Monitor. The device implements an EEG system that measures signals separately in the left and right parts of the brain, giving anesthesiologists and emergency physicians guidance on ongoing events, such as the level of consciousness in OR or a stroke in the emergency room. The company clearly hopes to become the next generation neuromonitoring technology for anesthesiologists looking for ways to monitor the depth of anesthesia. Check out the following graph that shows a comparison example of the WAVCNS and BIS (v.3.4.) time courses in an arthroscopy case. Some details from the product brochure: The NeuroSENSE Model NS-701 is a peri-operative bilateral brain fun... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3711589 Wed, 30 Jun 2010 18:17:06 +0100 3711589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3688259&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2Fmasimo_launches_hemoglobin_handheld_tester_pronto7.html No more needle pricks for patients getting their hemoglobin (Hgb) checked. Masimo has announced the limited worldwide release of its Pronto-7 hand-held device for spot-check testing of Hgb in (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3688259 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 18:04:45 +0100 3688259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3684705&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2Fdrager_evita_infinity_v500_upgraded.html Dräger Medical has released an update to its Evita Infinity V500 ventilator that provides new functions like variable pulmonary pressure, SmartCare/PS application for better management of weaning off of the device, and a few touches to make workflow easier for clinicians. The system also uses RFID chips tagged onto breathing tubes that can transfer device settings when moving a patient from one ventilator to another. Spontaneous breaths are subject to natural changes. The Variable Pressure Support option responds to these minute fluctuations of spontaneous breathing by varying the pressure support and thereby varying the tidal volume as well. Study data has shown that this can reduce the risk of lung damage.1 In addition to expanded therapeutic options, the software update with the S... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3684705 Tue, 22 Jun 2010 18:07:27 +0100 3684705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3667451&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2Fsiemens_releases_latest_echocardiography_offering_acuson_sc2000.html Siemens has unveiled a new version of its ACUSON SC2000 advanced ultrasound imaging system. Version 1.5 of the popular system that's specifically targeted at the echocardiography market, now comes with a new 5 MHz transesophageal probe and all the latest applicable Siemens transmission and detection technologies. To streamline exam workflows both on the user level and in the entire lab, the ACUSON SC2000 system offers eSieScan™ workflow protocols, which bring higher reproducibility and quality standards to the echocardiography workflow. Customizable according to user or department requirements, eSieScan workflow protocols dramatically reduce the need for user interaction and the number of keystrokes during the imaging process. Building upon Siemens’ patented technologies, th... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3667451 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 19:54:08 +0100 3667451 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3663654&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2Fmaquet_av_conference_30_for_ors_now_available_1.html Maquet has released version 3.0 of its AV Conference operating room system that manages video feeds, monitors, and clinical data via a touchscreen interface. The system is designed to make video in the OR easy and intuitive, and to allow for surgical telemedicine as a practical option. The central cockpit of Maquet OR integration is the AV Conference 3.0 system. It is used to control Maquet equipment, like the Magnus OR table and the PowerLED OR lights. Systems and devices from other manufacturers, such as endoscopy equipment can be integrated without any difficulties. The equipment pool that is found in most operating theatres, this compatibility is particularly significant when it comes to choosing the right system for coordinating workflows. AV Conference's modular concept also make... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3663654 Tue, 15 Jun 2010 18:20:58 +0100 3663654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3645656&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F06%2Frainbow_acoustic_sense.html Masimo has announced the full market release of its Rainbow Acoustic Monitoring, a low-profile adhesive sensor that provides continuous and noninvasive respiration rate monitoring. The device can help clinicians detect respiratory compromise and patient distress during procedural sedations, or for continuous monitoring in ICUs or even on regular floors. Press release: Masimo Initiates Full Market Release of Rainbow Acoustic Monitoring... Flashback: Masimo Releases Acoustic Sensor System for Continuous Respiration Rate Monitoring (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3645656 Wed, 09 Jun 2010 13:06:03 +0100 3645656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3561129&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2Faloka_ultrasound.html ProSound Alpha 6, a color ultrasound system from ALOKA of Tokyo, Japan is making its U.S. debut at the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) Conference in San Francisco this week. This latest addition to the ProSound Alpha series features advanced 3D/4D imaging, harmonic imaging, directional eFLOW, image optimization, adaptive image processing, spatial compound imaging, color flow, power flow, spectral Doppler, free angular M-Mode, and an extended field of view. Some of these imaging modes were previously seen only in high end systems. The α-6 boasts an award-winning ergonomic design with a large, programmable touch screen, height adjustable control panel and swivel/tilt LCD monitor. The system is released with a full suite of application-specific probes and s... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3561129 Thu, 13 May 2010 08:00:02 +0100 3561129 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3557510&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2Fupdate_to_geno_nitrosyl_no_delivery_device.html Earlier we wrote about the GeNO Nitrosyl NO Delivery Device. However, a rep for the company has written in with a clarification that the image we showed was not the device cleared for investigative use. The stand-alone gas cylinder pictured is what was approved. Here's from an email sent to us by a representative for GeNO LLC: the ambulatory (belt-clip sized) system is one of 3 Nitrosyl platforms and has not entered trials or the clinical setting yet: there is 1) the stand alone gas cylinder (which just got the IND cleared and will enter (phase) 2, first as a diagnostic in pulmonary arterial hypertension, per the release and my note); 2) a ventilator system; and 3) the ambulatory system. From the lead I just did not want confusion that the system in the photo is what we issued in o... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3557510 Wed, 12 May 2010 08:00:54 +0100 3557510 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3553464&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2Fsonarmed_airway_monitoring_system_gets_green_light_in_us.html Sonarmed out of Indianapolis, Indiana has received FDA clearance to market the company's Airway Monitoring System (AMS), a device that uses ultrasound reflectometry to track the position of the endotracheal tube and continuously assesses it for patency. The system can supposedly alert clinicians if the ET tube has an obstruction, whether it is due to mucus plugs, tube advancement, or a kink. The company believes that its technology may "reduce sometimes-unnecessary medical procedures routinely performed during airway management (such as chest x-rays and suctioning) which may reduce associated costs and risks (for example, radiation exposure)." From the product page: The SonarMed Airway Monitoring System consists of: 1. A portable digital monitor that displays details about ETT positio... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3553464 Tue, 11 May 2010 19:50:21 +0100 3553464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3553465&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2Fspacelabs_ultraview_dm3_vital_signs_monitor_going_to_market.html Spacelabs Healthcare out of Issaquah, Washington recently won FDA 510(k) clearance for and is now rolling out the Ultraview DM3 vitals monitor. This is not the most revolutionary medical product we have ever seen, but it is simple in use for clinicians, is cost-effective, according to the company, and it can connect to a wider EMR network to transfer patients' vital signs data. From the press release: In Spot-Check mode, the DM3 supports batch collection of basic vitals for multiple patients. Supplemental patient information, such as Pain Level, Patient Position (during NIBP), Site Check, and Caregiver ID, can also be specified by the user for inclusion in the patient’s record. After collection of patient vitals has been completed, the DM3 can be connected to the network to transm... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3553465 Tue, 11 May 2010 12:24:28 +0100 3553465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3549963&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2Fbiotronik_releases_reocor_external_pacemakers.html Here is a new line of external pacemakers from BIOTRONIK, devices that can be hooked to temporary epicardial pacing wires after open heart surgery, or to a pacing central line or a PA catheter in an emergency. The company hopes that its intuitive dial design and ease of operation will help anesthesiologists, cardiac surgeons, cardiologists and other critical care specialists to pace patients efficiently and without errors. And, of course, the company really hopes that these devices will make a strong headway against the already popular pacemakers such as Medtronic's Model 5388 and others. Biotronik representative sent us the following info: · Intuitive design for simplified usage Function dials allow for device programming at one operation level (no submenus in touchscreen applic... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3549963 Mon, 10 May 2010 14:51:55 +0100 3549963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3539310&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2Fveinviewer_technology_gets_an_update.html Memphis, TN based Christie Medical Holdings , Inc., a new owner of Luminetx Corporation, is now launching the VeinViewer Vision, the third iteration of the company's VeinViewer technology, which we covered previously here at Medgadget. The technology uses near-infrared light to obtain an image of the subject's veins, and projects the image in real time onto the skin. The Vision is smaller than previous generations of VeinViewer devices, and can be handheld or mounted to a mobile cart for hands-free operation. From the press release: Vision includes advanced VeinViewer technology that provides an improved depth of focus, a long-run battery for cordless use, and an exclusive ASSESS™ imaging suite with four distinct modes, including enhanced universal and fine detail modes and new in... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3539310 Thu, 06 May 2010 19:26:25 +0100 3539310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3535182&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2Fgeno_nitrosyl_no_delivery_device_moves_to_phase_2_testing.html GeNO LLC. of Cocoa, Florida recently announced that they are soon going to start Phase 2 trials of their Nitrosyl NO Delivery system, having received FDA Investigational New Drug (IND) clearance. The Nitrosyl device is a portable NO system the company claims delivers "pure" NO (as without admixture of NO2) while clipped to a belt. The ultimate goal would be for ambulatory NO therapy rather than the current standard of hauling large tanks and a complicated nitric oxide delivery device, but GeNO spokesperson Carla Burigatto said in an email that, "The first studies are in a hospital setting using the proprietary stand-alone gas cylinder to help diagnose pulmonary arterial hypertension, and the hope is that their technology not only adds helpful data but also reduces the monito... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3535182 Wed, 05 May 2010 16:54:55 +0100 3535182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3483627&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F_samplify_introduces_autofocust_ultrasound_beamforming_technology.html Samplify Systems of Santa Clara, CA has announced AutoFocusT beamforming technology which allows for high-performance, low-power ultrasound machines. The AutoFocusT engine automatically refocuses the receiver to capture reflections at different scan depths and alleviates the real-time requirement of calculating and downloading the delay and weighting coefficients in the back-end computer. Four scan-lines are formed simultaneously using QuadBeamT phased array technology for higher frame rates and improved lateral resolution. Features (from the press release): AutoFocusT engine calculates and updates delay and apodization weights every 0.5 mm, and interpolates every sample period. Provides programmable initial and maximum scan depths, and programmable F# and window functions. QuadBeam phase... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3483627 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 09:01:25 +0100 3483627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3450467&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2Fportex_uniperc_tracheostomy_kit_wins_prestigious_design_award.html The winners of this year's Medical Design Excellence Awards have been announced. 39 devices in 10 categories have been chosen for their ingenuity in design and development. We'll be covering many of the winners that have not graced these pages before to keep our readers informed as to what's best out there. First up is Portex UniPerc percutaneous tracheostomy kit from Smiths Medical, developed for treating patients with large, short, or muscular necks. It was one of the winners in the Critical-Care and Emergency Medicine Products category. Features from the product page: Suitable for patients with up to 50mm pretracheal depth. The unique distinctive 10 millimetre markings on the cannula, predilator and the single stage dilator enable to measure the pretracheal depth accurately and place... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3450467 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 17:56:58 +0100 3450467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3421675&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2Fcarefusion_diagnostic_catheter_helps_determining_causes_of_hospitalacquired_and_ventilatorassociated.html Carefusion, San Diego, has just launched its AirLife Diagnostic Catheter, a kit that helps in obtaining lower respiratory tract samples in patients who are on a ventilator to accurately diagnose lung infections. It uses a "mini" bronchial-alveolar lavage (mini-BAL) technology to obtain a specimen from the lower respiratory airway at a patient's bedside. The device can be operated by one person and the airway access adapter maintains positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) throughout the procedure. A self-sealing sample chamber minimizes contamination risk. Press release: CareFusion Launches Diagnostic Catheter to Help Clinicians Accurately Determine Causes of Hospital-Acquired and Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia... Product page: AirLife Mini-BAL Diagnostic Catheter... (Source: Medgadget ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3421675 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 17:37:35 +0100 3421675 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416929&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2Fphilips_announces_endovascular_temperature_modulation_system_innercool_rtx.html Philips Electronics has announced the launch of their InnerCool RTx System for endovascular modulation of body temperature. The system gives surgeons and critical care specialists the ability to rapidly alter a patient's body temperature through the use of a catheter with an integrated temperature sensor, called InnerCool Accutrol. Its closed-loop design circulates warm or cold saline without introducing liquid to the patient, and it provides faster cooling and warming rates than any currently available temperature management system, short of going on bypass. From the press release: The RTx cools and warms patients with a unique integrated temperature sensor catheter, which is placed below the heart via the femoral vein. Once in place, the closed-loop system modulates whole body temperat... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416929 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 20:45:08 +0100 3416929 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3409252&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2Fenvisionier_endogohd_portable_endoscopy_system.html Envisionier out of Woodstock, GA recently released what they claim to be is the "world's first battery operated, portable, hand-held endoscopic video camera with integrated viewing and archiving capability." Light Source Optimization Technology HD Video Capture endopod docking station that synchronizes data between device, network computer and select EMR systems. eGo™ -Removable Touch Screen with Sophisticated User Interface The eGo™ functions operates separately as a multimedia playback of endoscopic videos or photos with dual image viewing. The company is promoting this high definition endoscopic camera for ENT, Ob/Gyn, and urology. But, we think, it could also be used for general surgery, emergency medicine, anesthesia, critical care and other applications. Envisionier ... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3409252 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 19:48:44 +0100 3409252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3355463&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2Fenvironmentally_friendly_syringe_minimizes_packaging_to_save_resources.html Cambridge Consultants, a product design and development firm, has created a new prefilled syringe that uses fewer resources to manufacture than many current models. Unsurprisingly, the green syringe was named Syreen, but its environmental credentials are only part of the features of the new device. Instead of glass, Syreen syringes are made with COP (cyclic olefin polymer) plastic, which has enabled Cambridge Consultants to shed the need for secondary packaging altogether, a first in this medical device arena. The makeup of the Syreen allows syringes to clip together, nesting in a pack while the COP design doubles as the outer shell of the packaging itself. The Syreen therefore eliminates the need for wasteful fillers such as cardboard and styrofoam, reducing the packaging weight by 30 pe... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3355463 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:07:15 +0100 3355463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3273449&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2Fges_vscan_worlds_smallest_portable_ultrasound_now_available_worldwide.html GE Healthcare is finally releasing the much awaited Vscan pocket sized ultrasound. Many in the industry hope that this device offers a chance for physicians to make a move from stethoscopes to portable imaging devices, bringing advanced visualization to any examination room. The unit weighs one pound and is only 3 inches (7.6 cm) wide and 5.3 inches (13.5 cm) long, offering both standard black and white imaging, as well as colored blood flow doppler. GE is touting Vscan's size and capabilities for cardiologists to transthoracically view myocardium, pericardium, and heart valves, and for primary care physicians, as well as OB, ER, and others, to scan the liver, kidney, aorta and peripheral vessels, babies in the womb, and anything else the transducer can penetrate. Features from the produc... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3273449 Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:56:00 +0100 3273449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3267786&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2Fin_emergency_sscort_s3_delivers_scoop_suction_sump.html When emergency strikes and patient's airway fills up with a massive amount of gastric content, the regular Yankauer suction tip just can't handle the job. So to overcome the limitations, veteran firefighter and paramedic Jeff Rehman developed S-SCORT S3, a new oropharyngeal evacuation tool. Marketed by SSCOR, Inc., Sun Valley, CA firm, the device is described as a "rigid yet flexible large bore suction tip with a concave 'scooping' surface which allows for removal of solids and other material that will not travel through a large bore suction tube." To learn about the device check out the following video released by SSCOR: Product page: S3... Product brochure (.pdf)... (hat tip: The Denver Post) (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3267786 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 21:36:24 +0100 3267786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3240817&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2Ftoshibas_viamo_ultrasound_now_available_in_us.html Toshiba won FDA approval to market the Viamo portable ultrasound, a convertible touchscreen device that the company promises provides the same image quality as premium cart systems. The package comes with a wheeled pole that can carry the Viamo and additional transducers for easy exchange. From the product page: Sharing its core imaging engine and transducer technology with Aplio XG, Viamo offers high-end image quality also in situations where unlimited portability is required. Its full range of high-performance imaging functions lets you visualize minute tissue details and vascular structures with precision for a faster, more accurate diagnosis. Advanced imaging functions such as Pulse Subtraction THI come standard with Viamo. Viamo’s built-in touch screen allows for seamless wor... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3240817 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 17:57:45 +0100 3240817 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3217641&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2Fdrger_zeus_infinity_empowered.html Drägerwerk AG has just announced the release of a new anesthesia machine, called Dräger Zeus Infinity Empowered (IE), that features a combination of options to conduct either inhalational or intravenous based techniques, or both at the same time. Furthermore, for those who are looking on some savings when it comes to delivery of desflurane (and to a lesser degree isoflurane or maybe halothane), the machine offers a closed circuit system design. In terms of a blower, the machine is based on a popular Dräger Evita Infinity V500 ventilator. Dräger Zeus IE provides all options of anaesthetic techniques: From inhalation to (total) intravenous anaesthesia – all these applications can be utilised in the closed circuit system of the Dräger Zeus IE. Thanks to its clo... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3217641 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 22:47:47 +0100 3217641 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3217642&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2Fsmartpilot_view_an_anesthesiologists_flight_simulator.html Drägerwerk AG is releasing a new software package to help manage and predict the progress of intraoperative anesthesia (general and MAC), including modeling drug interactions and taking into account the unique nature of individual patients' physiology. Looks like the software is designed to model narcs, barbs and benzos, but not inhalational agents: Dräger SmartPilot View is an assistance system, which supports anaesthetists in making decisions, but does not make decisions for them. The software is based on pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic patient models, which calculate and visualise the effects of analgesics (opioides) and sedatives (hypnotics). Up to now, it was not possible to visualise the interactions between these two substance groups and to show the anaesthetist at wh... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3217642 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:53:45 +0100 3217642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3146933&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2Fhemolung_a_respiratory_dialysis_device_to_start_clinical_trials.html Ventilators, though staples of modern critical care, have serious drawbacks for both patient safety and comfort, and flexibility issues for clinicians. The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette is reporting that a considerably less intrusive system from a local company called ALung Technologies is about to begin clinical trials in India and Europe. The Hemolung is designed to perform respiratory gas exchange via a catheter inserted into the femoral or jugular vein. The process is essentially similar to traditional extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, but thanks to new technology, the device is touted to be safer and easier on the patient. Here's what an article in Pulmonary Reviews in Feb 2009 detailed about the system: The Hemolung is a small, cylindrical, veno-venous extracorporeal CO2 removal devic... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3146933 Wed, 06 Jan 2010 18:43:58 +0100 3146933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3009442&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F11%2Finfinity_m540_from_draeger_makes_hospital_workflow_and_patient_data_oh_so_so_smooth.html Here's another piece of news about medical gadgetry released at the ongoing Medica 2009. The Infinity M540 from Drägerwerk AG & Co. (aka Dräger) is designed to provide portability and full functionality of a stationary vitals signs monitor: The Dräger Infinity M540 measures and saves patient vital signs data, including 12-lead ECG and etCO2 values. For transport, the hospital staff can release the M540 from its docking station using one hand. The monitor continues to display and record vital data without interruption. As soon as the M540 is reconnected to a docking station – whether at its previous location or on a different ward – it automatically backfills the data recorded on transport into the Medical Cockpit, which is the central control and viewing uni... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3009442 Fri, 20 Nov 2009 08:00:02 +0100 3009442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3009443&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F11%2Fmy_lab_one_portable_ultrasound_from_esaote_makes_debut.html At the ongoing Medica 2009 in Düsseldorf, Esaote out of Genoa, Italy is releasing a new portable ultrasound system that features a 12 inch touch screen for manipulating settings without having to use buttons. The My Lab One can be worn on a shoulder strap and is designed for mobile applications such as ambulatory anesthesia, EMT, military and sports medicine. From the press release: The automatic rotation of the image according to the position of the system, an ergonomic probe equipped with controls, a long life battery, all add up to making this ultrasound an extraordinary innovation in the medical system arena. MyLab One is a “dedicated” ultrasound, which reflects perfectly today’s need for diagnostic capabilities in many different fields of application: from Ra... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3009443 Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:46:33 +0100 3009443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3001034&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F11%2Fmyoguide_emg_amplifierstimulator_from_intronix_tech.html This week at Medica 2009 in Düsseldorf, a Canadian firm Intronix Technologies Corp is unveiling a new electrophysiological amplifier designed to identify where to place neuromodulator injections for muscle disorders, pain management, and cosmetic applications. The Myoguide is essentially a single-channel EMG amplifier with stimulator that sports a signal display with analysis and EMG audio, so a clinician can locate areas of hyperactive muscle fibers for treatment. Published features of the product: Ability to see and hear EMG signals, display real time analyzed EMG, and stimulation location capability. There are numerous advantages to embracing Myoguide for EMG guidance: Conveniently integrated into one handheld package Helps identify involved muscles i.e. pre-injection physiopat... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3001034 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:11:56 +0100 3001034 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2978551&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F11%2Fa_new_led_powered_endoscope_from_schlly.html Schölly Fiberoptic out of Denzlingen, Germany is releasing a new video bronchoscope with CMOS "chip-in-the-tip" and bright LED technology. The device is going to be unveiled at MEDICA 2009 next week in Düsseldorf. The controller unit is plug-and-play with easy start-up. Its compact size saves table space and the simple controls eliminate the need for lengthy training. The controller is completely silent since it does not require a cooling fan. All video settings are preprogrammed, so no complicated and time consuming set-up is necessary. A single cable leads from the controller to the ergonomic handpiece. The handpiece includes the tip deflection lever, working channel port, suction valve, and buttons for taking photos and illumination adjustment. High-powered LEDs are incorpora... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2978551 Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:43:06 +0100 2978551 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2913515&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F10%2Fcovidien_announces_global_launch_of_mallinckrodt_taperguard_line_of_ettubes.html Anesthesiologists, EMTs and other intubators, rejoice! Covidien has just announced the world wide release of a new line of endotracheal tubes called Mallinckrodt™ TaperGuard™. Designed to "substantially" reduce the risk of microaspirations thanks to its taper-shaped cuff, the tubes come in two models: TaperGuard™ and TaperGuard™ Evac (shown in the picture). More details in the press release... Product page: TaperGuard... (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2913515 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 20:02:40 +0100 2913515 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2913516&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F10%2Fges_new_ultra_small_ultrasound_may_become_as_ubiquitous_as_stethoscopes.html Yesterday at the Web 2.0 Summit in San Francisco, GE showed off their new handheld ultrasound device. The Vscan looks like a cross between an iPod and a cell phone, making it possibly the world's smallest ultrasound. Later today we'll be attending GE's healthymagination technology showcase in New York where further details and specs will hopefully become available. For critical care clinicians, Vscan can offer an immediate look beyond patient vital signs with the potential to identify critical issues, like fluid around the heart, which could be a sign of congestive heart failure. And for cardiologists, Vscan provides a dependable visual evaluation of how well the heart is pumping at a glance, so they can treat patients more efficiently. More from GE... (Source: Medgadget Anesthesiology) Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2913516 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 08:50:51 +0100 2913516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2863463&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F10%2Ftiny_portable_ultrasound_from_sonosite_gets_us_ok.html SonoSite (Bothell, Washington) just announced that the company received FDA approval to market the firm's tiny NanoMaxx ultrasound system throughout the United States. Weighing in at only 6 pounds (2.7 kilo) and with a battery life of 2 operational hours, the system is truly portable for busy clinics, ambulances, emergency rooms, and elsewhere that ultrasound is needed. The new ultra portable and one button design of the NanoMaxx system makes high quality ultrasound available to a much broader range of clinicians. The system incorporates SonoSite’s advanced proprietary imaging algorithms, including SonoMB™ and SonoAdapt™ to deliver superior image quality in a lightweight, rugged form factor. With a touch screen that responds easily to the tap of a finger, and one butto... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2863463 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 19:56:09 +0100 2863463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2808609&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F09%2Fbloodbot_the_bright_future_of_phlebotomy.html Here is a project from the folks at the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College London, and its Mechatronics in Medicine Laboratory, who are bent on developing an "active robot designed to take blood samples from the ante-cubital fossa..." The Bloodbot identifies the location of a suitable vein by pressing a probe against the surface tissue of the ante-cubital fossa and measuring the force on the probe. The difference in the characteristics of the tissue from its surroundings, in response to the applied force, indicates the presence of a vein. Once a suitable vein has been found, it inserts a needle under force control. When the needle penetrates the vein (identified by its force/position profile), the control system prevents further insertion, thus avoiding overshootin... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2808609 Sat, 19 Sep 2009 00:40:57 +0100 2808609 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2783258&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F09%2Faunits_helps_anesthesiologists_keep_tabs_on_billing_units.html If you are an American anesthesiologist, and you do your own billing, now you have a simple choice. You can either buy everyone's favorite old-fashioned ASA Relative Value Guide ($75/$25), and calculate your charges based on the time spend in OR and on base units, or you can buy a new slick iPhone calculator that will do the work for you. And here's more: A-Units was created in cooperation with a practicing anesthesiologist. A unique copyrighted UNITS calculator will help you quickly calculate your time spent and units billed per procedure. Your case details will be saved in a HISTORY folder for future reference and the specific data points will be kept for your personal analysis in a DATA page. The FAVORITES page will allow you to store your most common cases performed so you can quick... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2783258 Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:00:08 +0100 2783258 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2759391&cid=s_28816_5_f&fid=28816&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.medgadget.com%2Farchives%2F2009%2F09%2Fwith_anestassist_iphone_now_models_anesthesia_pharmacology.html Palma Healthcare Systems, a small company out of Madison, Wisconsin, has just released the AnestAssist pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modeling application for the iPhone. The software presents residents, anesthesiologists and intensivists with an easy to understand, and hopefully clinically useful, visual data of pharmacological behavior and drug interactions for the most commonly used anesthesia medications. Anesthesiologists, CRNA's, and other clinicians involved with anesthesiology, from residents to the very experienced, will find AnestAssist a valuable tool for understanding and designing rational dosing strategies tailored to individual patients. Mathematical models published by clinical researchers, which take into account patient weight, age, and gender, are used to estimate... Medgadget Anesthesiology news http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2759391 Wed, 02 Sep 2009 19:33:01 +0100 2759391