Written by / Compiled by KMI Media Group staff
MMT 2010 Volume: 14 Issue: 2 (March)
Surgical Robotic Research
Florida Hospital’s Nicholson Center for Surgical Advancement recently received a $4.2 million Congressional Directed DoD Grant to help establish a Global Center of Excellence in Medical Robotics and Simulation, which will do research related to robotic tele-surgery, tele-mentoring and tele-broadcasting, with the ultimate aim of improving patient care and safety, as well as reducing costs. Partners at the center will also include the U.S. Army, University of Central Florida (UCF) Institute for Simulation and Training, and the UCF Medical School. The Nicholson Center was established in 2001.
Pulse Oximeters
Ingen Technologies unveiled the Oxyview pulse oximeter, for checking blood-oxygen saturation levels and rates of pulse. The device runs on two AAA batteries and features, among other things, a dual-color OLED display, pulse bar and plethysmogram, and the ability to adjust brightness.
Lean Six Sigma
Novaces recently introduced MediSim simulation software for training users in lean six sigma techniques for health care administration. The software offers various exercises for “process improvement” in hospitals, the company said. The MediSim Simulation Kit, as it is called, includes supplies, equipment, training materials, exercises and on-site facilitator training. The product is available on an annual unlimited or per-training basis.
Patient Record Processing
BAE Systems introduced the Automated Patient Record Processing System (APRPS) for capturing data from a variety of sources during treatment and evacuation of the injured. Sources from which the system gathers data can include vital signs monitors, oxygen concentrators, IV pumps, defibrillators, ultrasound machines, video and still cameras and more. BAE said the system can connect with the Theater Medical Information Program as well as various communications networks, and can be tailored for use with many air, sea and ground platforms.
Electric File Systems
Kardex-Remstar is touting its new Lektriever Electric Lateral File System, a series of vertically arranged rotating shelves that users control using an electronic keypad, either by pushing buttons or scanning barcodes. Items are automatically delivered to operators in one place, virtually eliminating the walking, bending and reaching required with traditional filing systems. The company said the system protects books, binders, documents and other items behind bi-parting, lockable doors.
Ultrasound Simulation
CAE Healthcare has acquired ICCU Imaging, a maker of education products for bedside ultrasound examinations, and Vimedix, a developer of advanced echographic simulation training. Terms of the acquisitions were not disclosed. CAE said part of its goal in the acquisitions is to offer a complete training solution for ultrasound imaging, including tools for online learning, seminars on bedside ultrasound, and medical simulators. For example, Vimedix recently began promoting a virtual reality animated simulator for transthoracic echocardiography.
CBRN Shelters
HDT Engineered Technologies will provide the Canadian Department of National Defense with 13 of its Transportable Collective Protection shelter systems for defense against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats. The company said the systems provide a “turnkey solution” for operations in austere environments, and include not only the actual products, but also training, logistical services and repair support.
Shipping Containers
Minnesota Thermal Science unveiled a new thermal shipping container called the Credo Xtreme pallet shipper, which is designed for transporting highvalue medical and biotech products. The container is a standard pallet size that is reusable and contains “phase change material” that keeps products at a constant temperature while they are being shipped.
Video Laryngoscopes
At the 30th annual ISICEM symposium, to be held in Brussels this month, Aircraft Medical was expected to showcase a new video laryngoscope, the McGrath Series 5, that the company says is fully portable. The product features a variable length, single-use blade that may be used on adults or children three years or older, and can run for up to two hours on a single AA battery. ♦