By Karen Appold

Malvern, Pa-based Siemens Healthcare showcased two new software tools at RSNA 2014 that will be available for Siemens Artis angiography systems with the new “Pure” platform for Artis zee, Artis Q, and Artis Q.zen in the future. For the first time, Syngo Dyna4D software allows for time-resolved three-dimensional imaging in the angiography suite while Syngo DynaCT SMART removes metal artifacts from images. Both software products are currently 510(k) pending.

Syngo Dyna4D software enables 3D visualization of blood vessel volume as well as blood flow. The software is ideal for use in the interventional radiology and neuroradiology space—where obtaining the most accurate diagnosis is critical to a therapy’s success through all phases of the intervention. For these procedures, the new software uses a modified protocol (3D+t) that permits users to combine spatial and temporal resolution. Siemens is the first and only company to visualize this fourth dimension.

The technology also allows clinicians to track the passage of contrast medium in real time and see exactly how fast and to what extent a patient’s vessels are filled. Ultimately, healthcare providers can more precisely tailor therapy, allowing for accurate treatment planning and implementation.

Another new software tool, Syngo DynaCT SMART algorithm, permits clinicians to remove metal artifacts from medical images. This could reveal complications such as hemorrhaging that occurs near metal objects like surgical clips or coils used in aneurysm therapy.

Metal objects can cause massive streak metal artifacts in computed tomography (CT) or CT-like imaging when traditional Syngo DynaCT is used. These streaks hinder clinicians’ efforts to analyze areas of the body near metal objects. Consequently, clinicians may not obtain important information right after implantation that can assist in identifying complications. By removing metal streak artifacts, regions near the metal are visually optimized for diagnostic purposes. This helps to decrease the chance of errors and possibly the need for additional postoperative exams and/or readmission to the hospital.

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