Handheld Ultrasound Provides Diagnostic Quality Images at Bedside

A new ultrasound system has been designed to meet the needs of cardiologists for precise diagnostic data at the bedside. The new compact system combines the image quality expected of a traditional full-size system with the convenience of portability.

Philips Healthcare (Best, The Netherlands) recently announced the launch of its advanced handheld ultrasound system, the Philips CX50 CompactXtreme. "Following extensive research into clinicians' needs, we've designed a laptop-sized system that can help them get to patients quickly--no matter where they are in the hospital or clinic--and which can produce high quality images regardless of the difficulty of the situation at hand,” said Anne LeGrand, senior vice president and general manager, ultrasound, for Philips Healthcare. "Clinicians told us that small, portable systems are beneficial, as long as the image quality can help them make a confident diagnosis. If poor image quality from a handheld system results in inconclusive data, repeat exams may be needed at the cost of additional time and money. The CX50 was designed to consistently deliver high-quality images, even in technically challenging patients.”

The CX50 CompactXtreme features Philips' breakthrough PureWave transducer, which is clinically proven to improve penetration in difficult-to-image patients and to reduce clutter so clinicians can view fine structures in excellent detail. It also features Philips XRES adaptive image processing for reduced speckle and haze inherent with ultrasound imaging. As a result, images are virtually free from noise and have extraordinary clarity and edge definition.

"Philips CX50 CompactXtreme system is truly the most advanced ultrasound system available today because its excellent image quality allows us to diagnose our patients quickly and confidently at the bedside,” said Thomas Buck, M.D., associate professor of medicine, University of Essen, West German Heart Center (Gesamthochschule, Germany). "The combination of PureWave technology and XRES processing enables the system to deliver the same image quality as full-size systems, allowing full echo data analysis from a portable system without any compromises.”

The system provides portability to address multiple scanning environments. Its built-in handle and battery allow users to pickup-and-go for quick responses. For added convenience, it has a cart designed specifically for the system for easy maneuvering throughout the hospital. Moreover, a wheeled case supports easy travel to remote locations. The system features Philips intuitive user interface, iSCAN automatic optimization, and on-cart quantification software (QLAB) to maximize ease of use for clinicians.

The ultrasound system also supports adult transthoracic and transesophageal cardiology applications.

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