PROTEC Software Now Available in 14 Languages

CONAXX is a user-friendly and intuitionally operable system for the acquisition of x-ray images from digital modalities such as CR- or DR-Systems. PROPAXX is the matching software for viewing, processing and archiving of these images. Both programs enjoy a great reputation worldwide due to their outstanding user friendliness and high image quality. These PROTEC software systems are the central part of any digital PROTEC installation today. Depending on the country of destination, both programs can be adapted to specific market & customer needs – not only regarding their workflow, but also in terms of their user language.

With assistance from our distributors, we have translated PROTEC imaging software systems in 14 languages already. In detail: German, English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, Turkish, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, Polish, Croatian, Czech and Estonian. A real success story!

However, this should not mean to be the end of the rope. Whenever and wherever another local language is needed, independent from its characters typology, we are ready to make it happen. We will provide a simple software tool to support our partners in translating the programs with minimum effort. Subsequently, implementation can be done by PROTEC, ready for the next software release.


   
Minimize News

GHE Is Represented on This Year’s HOSPITALAR

The 19th edition of HOSPITALAR will start in Sao Paulo, Brazil, soon. As the leading trade show for the healthcare industry in Brazil and the Latin-American market, the HOSPITALAR, from May 22 to 25, 2012, is a must for the German exhibitors of the medical technology sector.

Since 2006, Germany has been participating with a GERMAN PAVILION and additionally the German Healthcare Export Group (GHE) e.V. is represented on this important event.

With over 1,200 exhibitors from more than 30 countries, the HOSPITALAR provides an excellent platform for the export trade of German medical technology companies.

Aside from Central and South American exhibitors, you encounter businesses of the healthcare sector from around the world. The showcased high tech products represent a complete cross-section of the latest developments in the healthcare market. Next to innovative products from the medical technology industry, you will also find hospital and laboratory equipment, orthopedic, surgical and pharmaceutical products.

Sao Paulo is a perfect platform for the industry meeting of hospital suppliers and offers the German exhibitors an ideal opportunity for dialog between colleagues, partners and prospective buyers from South America and all over the world. In more than 300 sqm here at the HOSPITALAR 2012, you will find a broad spectrum of medical technology products “made in Germany”. Come visit the German suppliers and the GERMAN PAVILION and get informed.

We look forward to meeting you at the GERMAN PAVILION in the Green Hall, Booth J1 91.


   
Minimize News

Weiss mediclean®: CPM-Continuous Particle Monitoring

A germ-free operating theatre is a quality objective of all hospitals and an understandable concern of all patients. The established roads to this goal include improved hygienic measures and operating techniques as well as OP ceiling systems, which keep airborne particles and germs from the operating field by maintaining a low-turbulence displacement flow. Whether such laminar flow systems actually perform as expected, is examined on the basis of DIN standards. However, this is done exclusively within the frame of taking into service or re-commissioning and while the operating theatre is empty (at rest), without personnel or patient. The air flow rate supplied by the ceiling during commissioning probably will not ever be changed. For the first time worldwide, Weiss is now presenting a system converting the static set-up into a dynamic process: Weiss mediclean® Continuous Particle Monitoring (CPM) continuously monitors the actual air purity inside the operating theatre in operation,automatically adapts the air flow rate to the needs and logs this control process for quality assurance or further data processing.

Hazards from hospital germs
Statistically, every German citizen will undergo surgery at least once during his lifetime. But in hospital, where patients expect rapid healing, they may contract severe infections. In Germany, between 2 and 10 % of patients undergoing surgery are thus affected. Based on an estimate of the Deutschen Gesellschaft für Krankenhaushygiene (German association for hospital hygiene) approximately 15,000 patients die each year from the consequences of infections contracted during their stay in hospital. The widely feared multi-resistant germs (MRSA) have a rising share in this problem. Nosocomial infections do not only strain the patients, they also result in substantial economic losses incurred by the health care system. At the average they lengthen the hospital stay by two weeks and substantially increase the cost of treatment.

In most cases the pathogens penetrate the patient's body during use of invasive implements, such as catheters or intubators. However, even during the actual surgery
itself, germs may enter the body via the wound. The most frequently occurring nosocomial infections thus are urinary tract infections, pneumonia and post-operative wound infections. Any of these infections may develop into a sepsis, which - in a worstcase scenario - ends fatally in about half of the cases. These infections are caused by most diverse types of bacteria, sticking to unsterile instruments or other surfaces. However, very often the infections stem from micro-organisms resident in the body flora of the patient himself or the hospital personnel, particularly residing on the skin or in the nose.

“Air raid” by a grain of dust
To reduce the risk, hospitals are applying numerous new techniques and enhanced hygienic measures. Prophylaxis of post-operative wound infections focusses on
preventing bacteria from entering the operating field and thus the open wound during the critical peri-operative period referred to as the “cutting/suture time”. The methods employed today, such as a new type of hand disinfection or wearing two pairs of gloves alone, are not sufficient, however. The micro-organisms resident in/on the patient and the surgical team are dispersed to the air and can thus be transported into the wound. There is evidence, for instance, that speaking in the operating theatre, rapid movements of the personnel, or opening of doors increases air contamination. The germs particularly stick to airborne dust particles and skin scales. The hazardousness of such particles lies in there transport capacity for germs.

Hazards from surgical flue gases
The patient is not the only one to be exposed to the attack of particles. Surgical methods involving use of heat, laser radiation or ultrasound to cut tissue or remove bone cement, generate surgical flue gases composed of a mixture of gas, steam and particles. These are hazardous to the health of the surgical team. The flue gas contains organic and inorganic substances that may be inhaled by the personnel. For their shear amount already - the concentration often exceeds the generally acceptable values for exposure to dust - the particles affect the respiratory tract of the personnel in the operating theatre. The concentrations of some components substantially exceed the occupational exposure limits. Thus nano-particles, biologically active cells, bacteria and viruses have been found, from which the personnel must be protected.

Objective: Reduction of the particle burden
Prophylaxis of infections and protection of personnel both require that the number of particles be reduced or eliminated altogether. To achieve this, one constructional measure taken in operating theatres, is the installation of so called laminar flow systems. These maintain a constant low-turbulence displacement flow (LTF) and thereby divert airborne particles and pathogens from the operating field. The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Krankenhaushygiene (German association for hospital hygiene) in their “Leitlinien Raumlufttechnische Anlagen in Krankenhäusern” (guidelines for air systems in hospitals) recommends installation of LTF systems in operating theatres. A frequently cited research report by Lidwell, published in 1982 already, shows that such clean air systems substantially reduce the number of post-operative infections. Since then several studies, particularly performed in cases where large foreign organs were transplanted during operations, found that air is of relevant concern as a pathogen reservoir.

The functional principle of LTF is quite simple: The laminar flow system is installed in the false ceiling of the operating theatre and aspirates the air from the room via a prefilter.
The air is then mixed with supply air from the air-conditioning unit and supplied to a pressure chamber. From there the air passes a high-performance airborne particle filter and then - as clean air - in a low-turbulence, homogeneous flow moves downward in the entire operating field. No particles can enter this protected zone; Particles
dispersed inside the protected zone by the activity of the surgical team, are reduced and diverted from the area. Provided air volume and flow speed are adjusted perfectly, a large surface LTF is capable of reducing the amount of particles in the protected zone to a mere 1% of the amount present without an OP ceiling.

What is the actual particle count inside the operating theatre?
How efficient this technology will work in individual cases depends on the actual conditions on site and the air quality existing during the critical intra-operative cutting/suture time. However, air quality is normally only checked thoroughly once, namely before a new or redesigned operating theatre is handed over to the user. At this time, the turbulence or the degree of protection is measured according to the specifications of DIN 1946-4. The inspection determines whether the LTF is effectively achieved in the entire protected zone, or whether the admissible number of remaining particles is adhered to at any one point in the protected zone. However, at this time neither the patient and personnel nor the complete equipment with instruments and lighting are present inside the operating theatre.

In practise things are different.
However, the air quality does also depend on the number of persons present in the room and their activity. In fact, the number and activity of persons has a decisive influence on the low-turbulence air flow. The same applies to the way operating and instrument tables as well as OP lamps, monitors and ceiling-mounted supply units are positioned inside the room. The actual air quality during operations and its changes - that is to say the efficiency of the LTF - remains unclear.

Measuring helps optimising operating procedures
Weiss Klimatechnik for the first time worldwide presents a method for active measurement of the efficiency of the low-turbulence air flow right in the operating field. The method thus exceeds the requirements set by DIN. Measuring transducers register the particle load and inform the surgical team visibly or audibly, whether the required low particle count in the operating field is guaranteed. For instance, the red-yellowgreen signals familiar from traffic lights may be employed to signal that the air quality is in the “green range”. Thus the team will know which of its activities lead to particularly high emission of particles and may optimise the operating procedures, provided the relevant activity is not indispensable.

Regulating allows continuous optimisation of air flow
Decisive for the air quality, however, is the second dynamic step taken by the design team of Weiss Klimatechnik: Depending on the measurements the air flow is continuously optimised. If the setpoints for the particle burden are exceeded, the system increases both air volume and flow speed.
The higher the air volume, the stronger the LTF effect and the cleaner the air will be.

Documenting adds new quality management options
Archiving the data, Weiss mediclean® CPM adds a quality management option that is unique in the market. Particle burden and air flow values are recorded and can be allocated to the individual surgery. The data may also be used for further electronic processing, such as statistics.

Energy saving options
Weiss mediclean® CPM is the first such system worldwide and still in the trial phase. However, now already the many energy saving options it offers become apparent. If the air volume is increased for a short while to improve the LTF effect, energy consumption will naturally rise somewhat. But when the particle count drops, e. g. because doors have been closed again, the air flow rate is reduced to the original value. Optimisation of operating procedures may result in reducing times of increased air flow to a minimum. The method thus offers energy savings, since air flow rates lower than required by the standards might be adjusted, if the particle burden proves acceptable even at lower air flow rates.

Trouble-free switching between 1a and 1b
The setpoint for the particle burden can also be adjusted manually by the personnel. For operations on burns or for heart and bone surgery room air class 1a is required; for otorhinolaryngolical surgery, however, room air class 1b is sufficient. The system allows a hygiene engineer to set up the admissible particle counts for both classes within the frame of taking into service. Before the operation, the OP personnel could then simply switch between 1a and 1b.

Shut-down of the system outside operating hours?
Requirements concerning the reduction of energy consumption, particularly those initiated by legislators, are gaining weight nowadays. Of course, they must be adhered to without compromising the hygienic requirements. As a consequence, the community has been discussing for some time whether it is possible to shut the air conditioning system down altogether outside operating hours. DIN standards require that the air conditioning system of an operating theatre run in standby operation even outside operating hours; this has a substantial impact on the overall energy cost incurred by the air conditioning system. The respective Austrian standard allows shutting the system down altogether, but it must be switched on at least half an hour before surgery may begin. Both requirements mirror the uncertainty concerning the if and when of an operating theatre being free of pathogens in case of an air system shut-down. This question can now be answered with certainty: Surgery may commence when the CPM turns on the “green light”.

Summary
“Freeness of operating theatres from pathogens first and foremost is the responsibility of the hospital and its staff. As a manufacturer of air-conditioning systems for hygienic areas we can play a subordinate role in this only. Weiss mediclean® CPM and its permanent situation-adapted closed loop control of the air flow ensures that particle and pathogen burdens during the critical cutting/suture time are kept as low as reasonably possible”, summarises Rupert Mack, head of Weiss Klimatechnik mediclean® devision. “This way, we can help substantially reduce the number of post-operative infections caused by air-borne pathogens. And although the system is still undergoing trial, we are
convinced that it offers great - if not unimagined - potential for optimisation of operating procedures, quality assessment and energy savings”.

Contact:
Weiss Klimatechnik GmbH
Rupert Mack
Greizer Strasse 41-49
35447 Reiskirchen-Lindenstruth
Telephone: 06408 84-6263
r.mack@wkt.com

   
Minimize News

Brainlab Curve Wins Coveted Red Dot Award: Product Design 2012

Brainlab wins coveted ‘red dot award.’ Creative heads and manufacturers from all over the world submitted 4,515 designs altogether to the international product competition. Feature by benefit, Curve™ inspired the experts and received the globally sought after red dot in product design.

Curve embodies the latest in medical technology. This advanced surgical navigation system for the brain and body features the latest image guidance software powering advanced 3D displays. Curve incorporates great ergonomics, two game-changing, multi-directional touch terminals, digital HD, hi-fi and wi-fi.

“Using a human-centered design approach, we set out to challenge conventional surgical utility to help foster collaboration and potentially improve patient outcomes,” stated Stefan Vilsmeier, President and CEO of Brainlab. “Curve represents thousands of enhancements based on years of feedback from our customers. Incorporating user feedback has always been a priority for Brainlab and has helped to produce the ultimate surgical navigation experience in design and functionality.”

“The most distinguished products of the respective branches of industry faced up not only to the tough competition this year again, but also to the critical eye of the jury, explains Professor Dr. Peter Zec, initiator and CEO of the red dot design award. “The experts thoroughly examined, tested and evaluated each individual entry, applying the highest standards. With their performances, the laureates did not only demonstrate an extraordinary design quality but they also showed that design is an integral part of innovative product solutions. At this high level, the winners are able to increase their potential for success on the market considerably by purposefully using our design prize.”

The award winning products in the red dot design museum
Showcasing more than 1,500 products over 4,000 square metres of space, the red dot design museum accommodates the world’s largest permanent exhibition of temporary design. From July 3 – 29, 2012, red dot again invites the world to visit the traditional special exhibition of the award winning products. In “Design on Stage – red dot award winners: product design 2012”, enthusiasts can admire the latest trends at close range. Touching is explicitly requested and welcome: In this way, visitors experience live, the prizewinning design of Curve by Brainlab, on display in the breath-taking atmosphere of the one-time boiler house of the Zeche Zollverein, a former coalmine.

The red dot design award
The red dot design award, whose origins reach back to the 1950s, is carried out in three disciplines: ‘red dot award: product design, ‘red dot award: communication design’ and ‘red dot award: design concept’. In 2011 alone, more than 14,000 entries from over 70 countries were registered. The ‘red dot award’ itself is internationally established as one of the most appreciated quality seals for outstanding designs.

For further information please go to: www.red-dot.de/press.

About Brainlab
Brainlab develops, manufactures and markets software-driven medical technology that supports targeted, less-invasive treatment.

Among the core products are image-guided systems that provide highly accurate real-time information used for navigation during surgical procedures. This utility has been further expanded to serve as a computer terminal for physicians to more effectively access and interpret diagnostic scans and other digital medical information for better-informed decisions.

Brainlab solutions allow expansion from a single system to operating suites to digitally integrated facilities covering all subspecialties from neurosurgery and spinal surgery to orthopedics, ENT, CMF and trauma and oncology. With about 5,000 systems installed in over 80 countries, Brainlab is a market leader in image-guided technology.

The privately held Brainlab group, founded in 1989, is headquartered in Munich, Germany, and today employs 1,020 people in 17 offices worldwide.

To learn more about Curve™ Image Guided Surgery, visit www.brainlabcurve.com.



   
Minimize News

GHE Conference - Experts from China Introduced an Impressive Hospital Project

In the venerable “Eichensaal“ (oak room) of the ministry, participants were welcomed by Deputy Director Dr. Manfred Schubert, Chief of Section IV.A of the BMWi, as well as by Bruke Seyoum Alemu, Member of the Board and COO of aap Implantate AG.

One focal topic was the presentation of Chinese hospital construction projects in China, which was introduced by Prof. Dr. Manfred Dietel, Chairman of the German Sino Healthcare Group (G-S-HCG) e.V. and by Zhang Sijia, Director for the Division of Information and Consulting, NDRC-ICC.

Other topics included the current developments and projects of the Export Initiative for the German Health Care Industry as delivered by Dr. Tilo Mandry, Senior Manager Healthcare at GTaI, and certifications as the prerequisite to achieve global market access.

During the closing exchange of experience on the regions of South America and Brazil, it became apparent that in Brazil e.g. the financial situation has definitely moved into a positive direction over the past 10 years. Even if Brazil’s specific customs and tariff policy has a negative impact on import possibilities, it still is a growing market which should by no means be neglected.

The conference ended with a preview of the upcoming important trade shows in 2012/2013.


   
Minimize News

Uplifting Spirit at Arab Health 2012

“This year’s Arab Health was a complete success”, Markus Braun, Chairman of the German Healthcare Export Group (GHE) e.V. sums up. “While the past two years were somewhat marked by caution due to the political situation in the entire Arab area, this year a general uplifting spirit also had a positive impact on Arab Health.” That’s the impression of Markus Braun after his return from the leading international Healthcare trade show in the Middle East which took place January 23 – 26, 2012 in Dubai.

All of the participating GHE members were pleased to see a larger number of visitors and a considerably increased interest in German medical technology products. Projects are ramping up again, which ultimately stands to benefit the entire German medical technology industry.

The new booth concept of the GHE joint booth also received an especially positive response. Not just the German Healthcare Export Group (GHE) e.V. member companies but also the numerous guests were excited about the 390 sqm GHE booth. The booths, separated by gauze curtains for the first time and underscored by the new lighting, emphasized the common goal of the GHE member companies in a very special way: offering top quality and innovative medical technology – made in Germany – for use in hospitals and medical facilities throughout the world.

All participants of “Arab Health 2012” were extremely pleased with the results from this important trade show and are looking forward to a continuation of this positive trend next year.


   
Minimize News

Welcome to the Arab Health 2012!GHE Impresses with a New Booth Concept

Just like in the past few years, the German Healthcare Export Group (GHE) e.V. is also once again represented this year at the leading international Healthcare trade show in the Middle East. The participating GHE member companies and their guests however will encounter an entirely new booth concept. True to the motto openness and transparency, this year and for the first time ever, the adjoined member companies will showcase in custom-made booths, separated by gauze curtains. In addition to the individual competence and expertise of each member, in doing so the GHE puts the common goal of all GHE companies in a nutshell: top quality and innovative medical technology – made in Germany – for global use.

The centrally designed GHE lounge with its 5.5 meter tower already attracts attention to the 390 square meter joint booth from a distance. Underscored by its especially attractive lighting, it invites members and their guests to hold their expert talks right in the middle of the action and yet still be able to do so in peace and quiet, to socialize and to strengthen existing contacts.

Don’t miss your chance to go and see the attractive well-lit GHE joint booth and let the new atmosphere fill your senses! Markus Braun, GHE Chairman and Viola Ridderbusch, Assistant to the GHE Board, are at your disposal as your contacts.

We look forward to your visit to the SAEED-Halle, Booth S1E 54 and to our other trade fair booths in Dubai!


   
Minimize News

PROTEC is Changing

During recent years PROTEC has changed in a very dynamic way. We have made rapid progress and enhanced our product range significantly with digital imaging systems and X-ray systems. Recognising the market needs, we have invested in latest technology and development of new products in order to strengthen our own market position and provide our valued business partners a perspective for future business. This dynamic progress has moved PROTEC forward and enabled us to position ourselves as a competent high-quality supplier in X-ray business for analogue and digital imaging systems from one reliable source. To make people more aware of this progress and visualize it for everybody, we finally have decided to modernize our Corporate Identity completely. The slogan for our living corporate culture – TEAM | SPIRIT | ABILITY – becomes an integral part of our new logo. With three simple words it describes PROTEC, our staff and our dealer network. Please check out our new website which is released already (www.protec-med.com).


   
Minimize News

Visit the GHE at Arab Health 2012 in SAEED-Hall, Booth S1E 54

As last year, the German Healthcare Export Group (GHE) is represented on one of the most important fair in the Middle East: The Arab Health in Dubai. This year the GHE-Lounge has the following location: SAEED-Hall, Booth S1E 54. Other GHE-members will present their products in the German Pavilion at Zabeel Hall and elsewhere.

With more than 2.200 exhibitors from about 60 countries and over 50.000 visitors the Arab Health is the largest healthcare exhibition in the Middle East and of great importance beyond the region. As in past years the GHE will convince in 2012 through a strong common occurrence, by showing the individual skills of the member companies from a variety of healthcare sectors. The experience of the last years show that the well attended GHE-lounge especially invites to hold talks and to establish new contacts.

In 2012 following 20 GHE-member companies are flanged to the lounge: 3B Scientific GmbH, aap Implantate AG, ATMOS Medizintechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Diers International GmbH, Heine Optotechnik GmbH & Co. KG, Kögel GmbH, Leica Microsystems CMS GmbH, medavis GmbH, Medica Medizintechnik GmbH, Meiko Maschinenbau GmbH & Co. KG, MEYRA – Orthopedia Vertriebsgesellschaft mbH, Möller-Wedel GmbH, Physiomed Elektromedizin AG, PROTEC GmbH & Co. KG, Teleflex Medical GmbH, Tunstall GmbH, Unbescheiden GmbH, VBM Medizintechnik GmbH, Visus Technology Transfer GmbH, Weiss Klimatechnik GmbH and further Aerocom GmbH & Co., LUT GmbH, MLR.

The GHE is looking forward to your visit at our locations in Dubai!

   
Minimize News

Voyantlink™ Hospitals and Surgeons to Move Beyond Image Sharing and Into Enhanced Decision-Making

Brainlab announced today the launch of VoyantLink™, a cloud-based image sharing, viewing, and enrichment platform for clinicians, hospitals and imaging centers at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA). VoyantLink is the first service/product of its kind to move beyond image sharing to an effective cloud-based workspace, where users are able to access their images in the cloud, as well as launch and employ clinical planning tools and push completed plans to any device or storage location. Capitalizing on the largest annual radiology meeting’s theme for 2011, ‘Celebrate the Image,’ VoyantLink will contribute to Brainlab’s vision in clinical decision-making.
The image voyage through VoyantLink is like no other service on the market today. The difference that Brainlab brings to the clinical cloud is the enrichment of patient exams, offering physician users more and better information that will help them with critical decision-making and potentially improve outcomes,” said Stefan Vilsmeier, president and CEO of Brainlab. “VoyantLink realizes the Brainlab vision of making medical technology and knowledge more impactful and accessible to physicians and patients.”

Users of VoyantLink can send, receive, share and save images, like with most online or cloud-based image sharing clinical networks, but this is where the similarity ends. VoyantLink takes these capabilities a step beyond image sharing and opens an entirely new arena, one in which image sharing is a means to the greater end of improved clinical decision-making.

Once the image is inside the VoyantLink cloud, a powerful set of clinical tools are available, including effective live collaboration, data enrichment, and planning applications such as digital templating, mobile applications, workflow automation, dose review, dose planning, and image fusion*.

VoyantLink streamlines existing patient exam management processes and provides integration with the Brainlab portfolio of advanced treatment software for control of patient data throughout the treatment cycle. In addition to facilitating decision-making, data management and patient data control, cost savings are also a key benefit of the product.

“VoyantLink can decrease the costs of transfer by eliminating CDs and other manual transfer methods, and eliminate the whole process of VPNs,” said Marc Mackey, general manager of Voyant Health. “But not only do facilities and physicians have access to effective image sharing with VoyantLink, they can also access multiple enrichment tools that liberate clinical decision making from a particular workstation, device, or location.”

Brainlab acquired Voyant Health in June 2011 and has since been combining synergistic technologies and strengthening reach and distribution. By combining the capabilities of VoyantLink, Orthoweb and Quentry, Brainlab not only makes diagnostic images available anytime, anywhere, and on any device, but also makes enriching, sharing and using that data for surgical treatment easier.

To learn more about VoyantLink, visit http://www.voyantlink.com.

About Brainlab
Brainlab technology drives collaboration between hospitals and clinicians from a wide variety of subspecialties including neurosurgery and spinal surgery, oncology, orthopedics, ENT, CMF, trauma, and more. Through advanced integration of medical technologies, Brainlab delivers access to new treatment paradigms, which ultimately may result in better outcomes for patients. Founded in 1989, the privately held Brainlab group has about 5,000 systems installed in over 80 countries. Based in Munich, Germany, Brainlab employs 1,000 people in 17 offices worldwide.    
Minimize News

Siemens: Radiography System Multix Fusion Offers High-end X-ray Technology for Smaller Budgets

Siemens Healthcare introduced its new radiography system Multix Fusion at the 97th Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) 2011. Multix Fusion enables small and medium-size hospitals to deploy proven high-end Siemens technology without overtaxing investment budgets. The system supports the full spectrum of clinical applications, but is much more affordable than comparable predecessor models. Multix Fusion features components that until now were offered only in the upper price segments, such as the height- adjustable, 300 kilogram capacity examination table. Thanks to its high reliability and attractive service contracts, the system’s operating costs are also comparatively low.

The key components of the Multix Fusion, such as the ceiling-mounted X-ray tube and Bucky wall stand, were adopted from the high-end Ysio system. Ysio is Siemens’ radiography system for large hospitals with high patient throughput and the most demanding requirements in terms of automation, image quality, and ease-of-use. The Multix Fusion, on the other hand, is most suitable for small to medium-size hospitals and private practices that don’t want to compromise on quality, and at the same time depend on a very good price-performance ratio. This new system underscores Siemens Healthcare’s commitment to its recently launched Agenda 2013 global initiative. As an essential part of this two-year initiative, Siemens will further extend its systems portfolio in the middle price segment, demonstrating how it leads the way in health care innovation by helping to manage price pressures without sacrificing high-quality patient care.

“At times of rising cost pressure in most developed health systems, it is important to be able to offer high-quality imaging at attractive conditions. The Multix Fusion meets this requirement like almost no other system on the market,” said Andre Hartung, CEO of the X-Ray Products business unit at Siemens Healthcare. Moreover, Multix Fusion has lower operating and lifecycle costs: The system needs less than 20 square meters of installation space. Thanks to a special service contract that is configured for individual customer requirements, operating costs are further reduced.

Multix Fusion’s X-ray tube synchronizes itself automatically when the detector is adjusted, that way enabling examinations to be performed quickly and simply. A 1.8 meter long telescopic column allows the tube to be pulled down directly above the floor even in high-ceilinged rooms, so that patients no longer have to climb onto a stool or pedestal for foot images, for example. The ergonomic, height-adjustable examination table makes it easier to position patients and can hold up to 300 kilograms. Post-processing functions that have already proven their value with the Ysio radiography system, like DiamondView Plus, boost image contrast, resulting in very good image quality.

With the Multix Fusion, customers can choose among several system variants, depending on their requirements. Options range from the simplest version with ceiling-mounted tube and mobile detector, to the complete X-ray system, including table and Bucky wall stand.

Launched in November 2011, Agenda 2013 is a two-year global initiative to further strengthen the Healthcare Sector's innovative power and competitiveness. Specific measures will be implemented in four fields of action: Innovation, Competitiveness, Regional Footprint, and People Development.


The products mentioned here are not commercially available in all countries. Due to regulatory reasons the future availability in any country cannot be guaranteed. Further details are available from the local Siemens organizations.

The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry and a trendsetter in medical imaging, laboratory diagnostics, medical information technology and hearing aids. Siemens offers its customers products and solutions for the entire range of patient care from a single source – from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, and on to treatment and aftercare. By optimizing clinical workflows for the most common diseases, Siemens also makes healthcare faster, better and more cost-effective. Siemens Healthcare employs some 51,000 employees worldwide and operates around the world. In fiscal year 2011 (to September 30), the Sector posted revenue of 12.5 billion euros and profit of around 1.3 billion euros. For further information please visit: www.siemens.com/healthcare.

   
Minimize News

Meyra Sends Relief Supplies to Vocational School in Thailand

For the second time already, wheelchair manufacturer Meyra is sending a donation container to Thailand. Just in time for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3, the relief supplies will be distributed there to students of the “Redemptorist Vocational School for People with Disabilities“ and to children from very poor families at the ”Day Care Center”.

Starting off in Kalldorf, a truck is leaving for Hamburg with the container. Once there, it gets loaded onto a ship. All in all, the journey will take six weeks. On December 3rd, the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, the donations will be handed out.
A good portion is intended for a vocational school for disabled children. ”At this school, adolescents with disabilities receive an education. They learn how to handle computer software for example. This is supposed to enable them to later be able to look after themselves. To provide them with the essential mobility, the Meyra Company is donating wheelchairs and other relief supplies”, explains Hans Mielke, Chairman of Works Council of Meyra and one of the main organizers.

On location, the distribution of goods is accompanied by Jens Maspfuhl, German Para Golf Champion and 1st Chairman of the German Accident and Disaster Relief. For several years now, Maspfuhl has collaborated with the Meyra Company. Two staff members from Kalldorf will also travel to Thailand and be there during unloading. However, Erik te Riele and Robert Hojnik are not just supervising the distribution of the donations: “Thanks to this donation campaign we were also able to establish business contacts in Thailand at the same time. Orders from here increase our production and strongly strengthen the Kalldorf headquarters. This is another side effect of a good cause“, reports Hans Mielke.

Jens Maspfuhl, who came to Kalldorf especially to watch the containers depart, is very delighted that the donation campaign could once again be set in motion. ”Unfortunately, charity work is little known in Thailand. Most projects of this kind are organized by foreigners. The Redemptorist Vocational School for People with Disabilities is an initiative of the Father Ray Foundation, a foundation that was created by an American. It is important that young adults receive an education. The collaboration with the Meyra Company helps a lot in this regard“, says Jens Maspfuhl.

Also inside the container are 150 teddy bears. Those are intended for the “Day Care Center” for children from very poor families. This facility is also part of the “Father Ray Foundation“. Migrant workers living in slums can drop off their children here every morning. The little ones are between two and four years old and receive total care at the Center. “Toys, a school uniform and a place to take an afternoon nap are offered here. In addition, the children get something to eat. The children also do exercises to improve their speech. The parents have to pledge to also send the children to school afterward. This way the children get a chance at a future. This is not a matter of course among the poorest of the poor in Thailand“, Maspfuhl explains.

The German Ambassador to Thailand, Rolf Schulze, has assumed the patronage for this campaign. Aside from the company from Kalldorf, musician Norbert Görder from Kalldorf and his production company Taff Staff Music from Herford support this campaign with his song “Make that change”.

Written by Meike Sasse


   
Minimize News

New Tissue Processor Focused on Improving Patient Safety

Leica Microsystems has announced the release of the Leica ASP6025, an advanced tissue processor for histology laboratories that is focused on improving quality, laboratory productivity and, most importantly, patient safety.

Tissue processors, such as the new Leica ASP6025, play a critical role in histology laboratories where a patient’s tissue samples are prepared for disease diagnosis, especially where cancer is suspected. As nearly all patient samples in the histology laboratory pass through the tissue processor, the primary focus of the new Leica ASP6025 is to ensure that specimens receive high quality processing with utmost protection and care for each specimen.

According to Arnd Kaldowski, President of Leica Biosystems, “Patient safety should never be compromised. The new Leica ASP6025 focuses on protecting patient specimens as damaged biopsies mean a patient needs additional surgery or that diagnosis is compromised. This is why we have made sure the Leica ASP6025 provides exceptional quality while ensuring patient tissue is always looked after”.
As well as providing the exceptional processing quality needed for accurate diagnosis, the Leica ASP6025 incorporates a range of innovative features for specimen safety. These include a battery backup system that protects the specimens even during a complete power failure and the simple addition of a glass window that allows a quick visual check of specimens during processing. Also, Leica RemoteCare remote 24 hour monitoring helps identify problems before they damage tissue.

Along with the specimen safety features, the Leica ASP6025 also helps modern laboratories ensure high-productivity while protecting staff. Its rapid processing capabilities ensure fast turnaround times while a host of productivity innovations reduce upkeep time. Laboratory staff can also breathe easily thanks to a xylenefree processing option, contactfree remote fill and drain, and a unique system that draws fumes away for the operator when the processor’s lid is opened.

Part of Leica Microsystems’ Total Histology Solutions, the Leica ASP6025 processor is now available worldwide through Leica Microsystems extensive sales and service network who can also assist with a complete range of tissue processing consumables including cassettes, paraffin wax and reagents.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Leica Microsystems is a world leader in microscopes and scientific instruments. Founded as a family business in the nineteenth century, the company’s history was marked by unparalleled innovation on its way to becoming a global enterprise.
Its historically close cooperation with the scientific community is the key to Leica Microsystems’ tradition of innovation, which draws on users’ ideas and creates solutions tailored to their requirements. At the global level, Leica Microsystems is organized in four divisions, all of which are among the leaders in their respective fields: the Life Science Division, Industry Division, Biosystems Division and Medical Division.
Leica Microsystems’ Biosystems Division, also known as Leica Biosystems, offers histopathology laboratories the most extensive product range with appropriate products for each work step in histology and for a high level of productivity in the working processes of the entire laboratory.
The company is represented in over 100 countries with 12 manufacturing facilities in 7 countries, sales and service organizations in 19 countries and an international network of dealers. The company is headquartered in Wetzlar, Germany.


   
Minimize News

International Medical Technology Industry as Visitors at the GHE-Lounge at MEDICA 2011

The German Healthcare Export Group (GHE) e.V. reviews MEDICA 2011 positively. Many international guests announced their visit at the GHE booth at MEDICA, the world's largest medical trade fair in Duesseldorf.

Among many visitors from China many guests from other parts of the world met on the medical marketplace to intensify numerous business contacts. The positive mood in the industry branch provided the right setting for good conversations.

Already at the beginning of the exhibition on wednesday, the GHE members and visitors could experience the benefits of an international exchange in the medical technology sector. At the GHE-joint stand guests and members of the Association engaged in numerous conversations and exchanged their experience on the export market in China. The question to what extent the Chinese medical market continues to grow and in which direction it will develop, provided plenty of discussions. Another important topic was intercultural communication: how German companies are able to reduce possible cultural barriers between China and Germany and can develop a better understanding of their partners in China.

Three delegations from China, the Association for Medical Device Industry (CAMDI), medical experts from Nanjing and the ICC-NDRC, China's National Development and Reform Committee (NDRC) International Cooperation Center (ICC) provided an interesting insight into the economic upswing of their country and underlined the importance of the German-Chinese friendship.

Within the annual tour of ambassadors the GHE was pleased to welcome representatives from around the world.

"We are very pleased with the positive response of all guests. The MEDICA offers the platform to convey the strengths of German medicine technology concentrated and comprehensively to our international partners, and above that opens the opportunity to exchange with a variety of experts in a short time, "summarises Markus Braun, Chairman GHE. “Further our exclusive anniversary celebration was a great success. Our aim to thank all those who have actively supported us with their competent and faithful teamwork in building up the German Healthcare Export Group over the past two decades came true.”


   
Minimize News