Computed Radiography System Recognized for Advances in Neonatal Imaging

A computed radiography (CR) system was recognized for significantly improving image quality while reducing radiation dose in neonatal radiography, one of the most demanding areas of medical imaging.

CR is a technology that allows X-rays to be digitally captured, reviewed, and archived. The DX-S CR system uses innovative technologies, proprietary to Agfa HealthCare (Mortsel, Belgium), which help address some of neonatal radiography's most critical challenges, such as minimizing radiation dosage and enhancing image detail, while delivering images directly to the point of care.

The small size of the neonatal patient causes low radiographic contrast and makes details more difficult to visualize. Because the infants may often receive 30 to 40 exposures over the course of their treatment, using the lowest possible radiation dose is extremely important. Currently available systems are limited in their ability to reduce dose and improve image quality because of the technology used. However, DX-S technology allows for lower radiation dose and still provides high image quality as well as faster patient throughput. The improved sensitivity of the technology can decrease the number of exposures due to repeats caused by inadequate exposure technique.

Moreover, the DX-S is a high-throughput, compact, portable system designed to provide a full range of imaging exams directly to the point of care with minimal wait times. This makes the system suitable in neonatal departments and other environments where patient comfort, exam speed, and imaging flexibility are of paramount importance, such as emergency, trauma, pediatric, and general radiology departments.

Agfa HealthCare, a leading provider of information technology (IT)-enabled clinical workflow and diagnostic imaging systems, was recently selected to participate in the Premier Healthcare Alliance's first Innovation Celebration. "We're proud to be recognized by the Premier Healthcare Alliance,” said Jim Banghart, vice president, U.S. Sales, Agfa HealthCare. "This honor attests to Agfa HealthCare's commitment to deliver advanced digital products that improve neonatal care by providing high image quality with lower radiation dosage.”

Held at Premier's (Charlotte, NC, USA) 2009 annual Breakthroughs Conference and Exhibition, held in Anaheim, CA, USA, in June 2009, the Innovation Celebration recognized advances in healthcare while highlighting healthcare industry suppliers committed to innovation and improving patient outcomes. The 26 products showcased were selected by a cross-functional team of Premier alliance members and staff of varying expertise, including clinical product planners, clinical field specialists, pharmacists, supply chain professionals, materials management, and nurses. Basic criteria for selection included solutions that displayed uniqueness, as well as solutions that have an impact on an unmet medical need.

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