Philips transforms care to address the economic challenges faced by radiology departments and radiologists worldwide

CHICAGO, Nov. 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --At the 98^th annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), November 25-29, Royal Philips Electronics (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) continues the Imaging 2.0 journey by showcasing several new features for existing image modalities that deliver clinical benefits to customers while simultaneously answering the economic challenges clinicians face worldwide.

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Globally, clinicians are faced with many challenges, such as the rise of chronic disease and an aging population, that could interfere with their capability to deliver the best possible care to their patients. Technology innovation is part of the answer, as well new business models that address the clinical, operational and financial needs of hospitals and customers.

At RSNA, Philips is now offering dStream broadband technology[*] that will enable current Philips MR users to switch to digital broadband MRI for the majority of analogue Philips MR systems. The technology builds on the existing MR magnet and is a cost-effective way to provide digital broadband MRI. Compared with system replacement, dStream upgrade technology saves on magnet and reconstruction costs and means fewer disturbances for the facility during installation. Users can expect significant savings in cost when upgrading an existing MRI compared to purchasing a new digital system.

"We know that customers around the globe are facing economic struggles and purchasing decisions may be uncertain," said Gene Saragnese, chief executive officer of Imaging Systems at Philips. "Philips understands these challenges and is committed to continually improving access to the best care possible and helping clinicians to improve patient outcomes. We do this by providing upgrades and enhancements that meet these challenges, which allows our customers to improve on the existing imaging system investments they have already made."  

SmartPath to dStream features signal digitization directly at the patient, delivering high signal to noise ratio (SNR) that benefits image quality and speed. The lightweight dStream digital coils are comfortable for patients and the easy coil handling significantly benefits workflow. SmartSelect automatically determines the coil elements to use, shortening scan setup time.

"SmartPath to dStream is a phenomenal opportunity for us: not only to keep us contemporary, but to maintain our lead over our competition", said Dr. Chip Truwit, chief of radiology, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, Minn., U.S.

With the addition of dStream technology to an MRI system, routine exams for brain, spine, knee, ankle and liver can now be performed in less than eight minutes. The technology digitizes the MR signal at its purest spot in the RF coil, increasing the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and allowing for enhanced image quality. Fewer coils lead to reduced coil positioning and patient set-up time, delivering on a commitment to enhance clinician workflow and the patient experience.

Additionally, Philips is now offering the addition of transducers for the surgical suite[**] on Philips' CX50 compact ultrasound system. The most challenging cases for clinicians often occur in the ICU or the surgical suite, where space is at a premium. The addition of this strategic upgrade would bring premium, mobile ultrasound imaging to surgical procedures.

Visit Philips at RSNA 2012 in the North Building Hall B of the McCormick Place convention center at booth 7719 from November 25-29. For more information, additional materials and images, go to www.philips.com/RSNA and click on the "News Center" tab.  

About Royal Philips Electronics

Royal Philips Electronics (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) is a diversified health and well-being company, focused on improving people's lives through meaningful innovation in the areas of Healthcare, Consumer Lifestyle and Lighting. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips posted 2011 sales of EUR 22.6 billion and employs approximately 121,000 employees with sales and services in more than 100 countries. The company is a leader in cardiac care, acute care and home healthcare, energy efficient lighting solutions and new lighting applications, as well as male shaving and grooming, home and portable entertainment and oral healthcare. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.

[*] Philips introduced the dStream technology with its Ingenia 1.5T and 3.0T MR (magnetic resonance) system.

[**] Not currently available in the U.S.: 510(k) pending

SOURCE Royal Philips Electronics

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