Dec. 1, 2005 -- Combining a surgical C-arm and an optical 2D/3D navigation unit into a common platform, Siemens Medical Solutions and BrainLAB introduce NaviVision*. This new system allows more room for the operating room (OR) team and helps to facilitate workflow. In addition, fewer cables may increase safety during typical OR situations.

NaviVision is the first integrated optical navigation platform with automatic recording for surgery that is supported by an image receptor. Siemens' ARCADIS family of mobile C-arms and BrainLAB's optical 2D/3D navigation unit are combined, minimizing the space requirements of two medical systems. This helps provide the operator with great freedom of action at the OR table.

"Surgical navigation is an essential step in linking intraoperative image data directly with surgical actions and clinical workflow in the OR," said Denise Lippy, vice president, Special Systems Division, Siemens Medical Solutions. "It can help the surgeon increase precision and reduce both invasiveness and radiation exposure during surgery."

NaviVision's adjustable swivel arm can be fully sterilized and set in the horizontal or vertical direction. Its navigation screen can be attached directly to the C-arm's workstation or directly to the OR table to meet the surgeon's needs. With a touchscreen, the surgeon can easily operate the system's monitor and switch between axial or lateral views. In addition, a DICOM interface allows for easy documentation of image data.

NaviVision is expected to be available in January 2006* together with the new models of Siemens' ARCADIS Orbic, ARCADIS Orbic 3D and ARCADIS Varic C-arm systems.

BrainLAB AG develops and markets computer-supported medical equipment for use in orthopedics, traumatology, neurosurgery, otorhinolaryngology, and radiosurgery. In the area of software-driven medical equipment, BrainLAB is one of the market leaders with approximately 1,470 systems in 60 countries. BrainLAB's core competency is software development - the basis for new ideas which BrainLAB implements quickly and efficiently in cooperation with clinical partners to further improve the quality of life for patients. For additional information go to http://www.brainlab.com.

* The information about this product is preliminary. The product is under development and is not commercially available in the U.S., and its future availability cannot be ensured.