SonoSite introduced SonoGT Global Targeted technology, an advance that capitalizes on the power of the M-Turbo platform to drive a new level of color flow imaging, wireless connectivity and workflow integration for anesthesia, emergency medicine, critical care and other acute point-of-care markets.
The new SonoGT technology platform offers the following capabilities:
ColorHD Technology - A proprietary, color Doppler algorithm that harnesses the power of the M-Turbo system's digital signal processor to increase color performance, sensitivity and frame rates. Available on all transducers, ColorHD technology works in parallel with multiple M-Turbo algorithms, including SonoHD imaging technology, to provide increased diagnostic information and better visualization of color flow, particularly in low flow states. ColorHD technology also comes with a variable sector size for the P10x/8-4 MHz and the P21x/5-1 MHz phased array transducers for increased frame rates during cardiac imaging.
SonoRemote Control - A new accessory enabled by the SonoGT technology platform untethers the clinician from the ultrasound system during procedures to increase ergonomic comfort and is expected to be very useful in sterile field procedures. Based on Bluetooth(R) wireless technology, the SonoRemote control can operate within a sterile bag or sheath and can be used to adjust system controls from within a radius of 10 meters. SonoSite plans to begin shipping this option in the first quarter of 2009.
SonoRoam Technology - Using 802.11b/g technology, SonoRoam technology enables wireless image transfer from the M-Turbo system to a PACS system via DICO and to a personal computer via SonoSite's SiteLink so that clinicians can quickly retrieve the information from any location. Wireless connectivity is increasingly viewed as a critical component to reduce medical errors and speed time to diagnosis in a portable ultrasound system.
The company plans to begin customer shipments of new M-Turbo systems with SonoGT technology in the fourth quarter. Customers can separately purchase SonoGT technology and upgrade existing M-Turbo systems via an easy software download from a USB thumb drive.