June 9, 2008 - Siemens unveiled the ACUSON SC2000 volume imaging ultrasound system, which acquires nonstitched, real-time full-volume 3D images of the heart in one single heart cycle, during the 19th Annual Session of the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) in Toronto, June 7-11.
Called “Echo in a Heartbeat,” this new technology generates non-stitched full-volume imaging reportedly of the entire heart with 90 degree pyramids and in just one second, according to the manufacturer.
The ACUSON SC2000 system is strengthened by Siemens patented Coherent Volume Formation technology. Coupled with the system's high-volume acquisition rate, Coherent Volume Formation moves away from serial line-by-line acquisition towards simultaneous, multiple beams, delivering excellent image resolution.
The proprietary 4Z1c transducer features revolutionary, patented active cooling technology, enabling full output power within regulatory limits. This results in improved penetration, reduced noise and high-volume acquisition rates when compared to conventional 3D transducers. The 4Z1c is a single transducer solution for adult echo applications that provides all the modes needed: volume imaging, 2D, M-mode, color Doppler and spectral Doppler. This breakthrough technology showcases Siemens' acoustic mastery and delivers on the long-awaited promise of true volume imaging for every patient.
The ACUSON SC2000 system is designed to support advanced cardiovascular applications. The knowledge-based workflow software uses learned pattern recognition technology and an expert database of real clinical cases. This enables the system to recognize anatomical patterns and landmarks, as well as to perform automatic measurements streamlining clinical workflow.
The system automatically derives reference plane images from the full-volume cardiac capture dataset and offers automated full-volume contouring for fast qualitative and quantitative analysis. Customizable, programmable, and protocol-driven workflow sequences deliver repeatability for better outcomes: greater efficiency, accuracy, consistency, and care from data acquisition to diagnosis. To further enhance efficiency, the offline workstation enables reporting, as well as complete review and processing of the acquired volumes.
Besides using the latest technology advancements and applications to improve efficiency and workflow, Siemens has also addressed the ergonomics of the system to meet and exceed today's recommended ergonomic guidelines to reduce work-related stress injuries and to accommodate the varied work environment of sonographers.
For more information: www.usa.siemens.com/medical