As a result, Axius Auto EF technology helps reduce observer variability by bringing expert-level interpretation to every exam. Clinical diagnoses and support are more accurate and exam time is shortened.

Breakthrough Fetal Stent Placement Procedure


In related news, the Sequoia system was recently used during a breakthrough procedure at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston, where cardiologists, a radiologist and risk obstetrical specialists placed a stent in the heart of a 30-week fetus suffering from hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) with an intact septum.

Carol Benson, M.D., director of ultrasound and co-director of high-risk obstetrical ultrasound, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and a key member of the team performing this first-of-its-kind procedure, used the Sequoia system to guide the catheter through the mother's abdomen and uterus into the heart of the fetus. A fine needle, followed by a wire with a pre-loaded balloon was gently pushed into the left atrium and through the atrial septum to deflate the high pressures causing the atrium to distend with the blocked blood flow.

"The balloon was inflated until the first atrial septal defect (ASD) was created," said Dr. Benson. "Then we used the same process to create a second hole in the septum to place a stent into this new ASD. We followed all of this on the Sequoia monitor to guide position for the stent and ensure blood flow through the stent, which showed up immediately. The system has the resolution, functionally, as well as the probes we need to perform such delicate cardiac interventions."

During the echocardiography exam prior to full gestation, the fetus appeared to be in the classic HLHS category instead of the highest risk category due to the fact that the septum stayed intact. Today, the baby has undergone the first stage of the HLHS surgical repair and the reports are good.

"HLHS is the number one cause of neonatal mortality from congenital heart disease," said Dr. Benson. "After performing this successful procedure, I'm confident we can perform more with positive results because of the resolution and sensitivity in our ultrasound technology for catheter guidance."

Siemens Medical Solutions of Siemens AG (SI) with headquarters in Malvern, Pennsylvania, and Erlangen, Germany, is one of the largest suppliers to the healthcare industry in the world. The company is known for bringing together innovative medical technologies, healthcare information systems, management consulting, and support services, to help customers achieve tangible, sustainable, clinical and financial outcomes. Employing approximately 33,000 people worldwide and operating in more than 120 countries, Siemens Medical Solutions reported sales of 7.6 billion EUR, orders of 8.6 billion EUR and group profit of 976 million EUR for fiscal 2005. More information can be obtained by visiting www.usa.siemens.com/medical-pressroom.

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