There is a rising demand for interventional radiology procedures—and for good reason. There’s a rise in minimally invasive 
procedures. For example, we’re seeing a shift from open aortic surgery to minimally invasive procedures. Plus, we’re also seeing an increase in endovascular cancer care. Right now, image intensifiers are the mainstream technology, but the clock is definitely ticking. It’s believed that flat panel detectors will soon become the standard for mobile C-Arms.
Another reason for the slow of acceptance for flat panel detector C-Arms is because GE Healthcare, the market leader, has yet to introduce C-arm technology with FPDs. However, it’s common knowledge they are currently working on their own FPD technology, so that could change.
We’re seeing more mini C-arms with flat panel detectors than full size mobile C-arms. And there is a firestorm of innovation taking place among fixed C-arms that are used in cardiac cath labs. GE and Phillips both introduced new products last year that shorten the procedure times and improve outcomes. It’s exciting to see how this is benefitting vascular surgery and interventional oncology.
GE has also introduced its new ASSIST software packages for interventional imaging: Vessel ASSIST, Needle ASSIST, EVAR ASSIST Valve ASSIST, PCI Assist and VesselNavigator. GE has also launched FlightPlan for liver embolization, which helps plan, guide and assess complicated procedures that surgeons and interventionalists are performing.
It’s exciting to see how the speed of technology advancements is affecting healthcare systems, procedures and tools. At Atlantis Worldwide, we have no doubt that the industry is moving toward FPDs and away from IIs. If you need help determining what the best course of action is for your facility, clinic, hospital or practice, talk to one of the experts at Atlantis Worldwide. We’re here to help! Contact us today!
Some blogs you may have missed:
- How Much Does it Cost to Lease a C-Arm?
- Capture It All... with MediCapture
- Comparing C-Arms: The Ultimate Guide
- Going Green with Refurbished & Used Medical Imaging Equipment
- 13 Ways to Decontaminate Medical Imaging Equipment & Protect Staff
About the author: Alex Silbergleit
