Siemens Introduces New Ultrasound System

Siemens is enhancing its budget-conscious Acuson X line of ultrasounds with a new system that features technologies previously only available on the Acuson S series.

During Medica 2012 World Forum for Medicine in Düsseldorf, Germany, the company introduced the Acuson X700, a device that optimizes ergonomics and improves image quality, Siemens claims. A 20-inch monitor mounted on a pivoting, rotating arm and a height-adjustable control panel helps clinicians of all sizes work easier in a standing or sitting position. The X700 also features several USB ports on the front that allow users to take recordings with them for future review.

Some of the features usurped from the Acuson X line include advanced SieClear spatial compounding, which enhances anatomic border definition and improves tissue contrast through electronic beam steering, thereby allowing rapid acquisition of overlapping images from different angles. The Dynamic TCE (tissue contrast enhancement) technology improves borders and reduces speckle/noise, facilitating subtle tissue differentiation. Moreover, the Acuson X700 system features intelligent workflow solutions to enable the high throughput required by various clinical departments that use the system. For example, the TGO (tissue grayscale optimization) technology provides instantaneous one-button image optimization by automatically adjusting the image brightness to the tissue type being imaged.

In addition, Siemens is using its patented MicroPinless (MP) transducer connectors from premium platforms in the Acuson X700 system. MP connectors offer the highest signal fidelity and improve the signal-to-noise ratio to enhance signal quality, according to the company. The transducers are compatible with Siemens’ Acuson S family, Acuson X devices, and Acuson Sequoia ultrasound systems to increase flexibility and investment value for customers. The Acuson X700 system also features a new, single-solution, 50-millimeter aperture linear array transducer for superficial as well as deep imaging. The proprietary Hanafy lens transducer technology provides continuous focusing and image uniformity while delivering superb contrast and detail resolution, Siemens claims.

The Acuson X700 system offers various features and options to accommodate a broad range of applications and clinical environments. For instance, 3-Scape real-time 3-D imaging and advanced fourSight technology support 3-D/4-D imaging for fetal, abdominal, and gynecological examinations. Multiple knowledge-based workflow applications support the workflow to ensure consistency. The software Syngo Auto OB Measurements, for example, draws on a large database of ultrasound images to provide instant automated biometric measurements of the fetus without manual calculations. And advanced cardiac imaging applications like intracardiac echocardiography imaging support physicians during procedure visualization and device placement monitoring.

The Acuson X700 is on display at Medica through Nov. 17.