Waukesha, Wis.-based GE Healthcare has introduced Definium Tempo, a new fixed, overhead tube suspension digital x-ray system that provides automation and support to radiology professionals.
Definium Tempo is designed to work with the radiologic technologist to operate efficiently and provide high-quality images, while allowing for more quality time with the patient. Acting much like an in-room ‘command center,’ the Definium Tempo’s tube-mounted console provides all the functionality needed for patient selection, protocol selection, technique modification and positioning setup—enabling the technologist to finish all exam setup and positioning work without having to leave the patient’s side.
Moreover, automated workflows help start an exam and additional features, such as Auto Positioning, Auto Centering and Auto Tracking, automate the positioning of system components to maximize overall ergonomic operation for the technologist. Variability in patient positioning and exam set up can lead to extra dose with ‘repeat and reject’ rates, or the need to retake images, as high as 25%. These pressures add additional burden to already strained radiology departments.
To address ‘repeat and reject’ rates that can negatively impact day-to-day clinical operations, the Definium Tempo is also equipped with features to deliver consistent images and help lower variability in patient positioning and image quality. Enabled by live-streaming video and 3D depth cameras, the Intelligent Workflow Suite combines computer vision, video analytics, and precision engineering to provide workflow enhancement tools formed by combining the 3D video camera, computer vision, and video analytics to help address positioning errors, poor image quality due to incorrect patient habitus selection, and ambiguities during image reading due to unique conditions.
“The Definium Tempo system has been an impressive addition to our department,” says Orlando Ortiz, MD, a radiologist at North Central Bronx Hospital in New York. “As a radiologist, image quality is everything and these images are a definite upgrade. It’s also had an immediate impact and been well-received by all our staff members, because it’s simple to use—with minimal steps and clicks required.”
“Workflow was an important consideration to our team,” Ortiz adds. “It needed to save, or eliminate, unnecessary steps while keeping the technologist present with the patient. With user-friendly features embedded in the console, our technologists are able to stay focused on the patient in the room and on the table, and provide critical care to patients who are nervous, worried or anxious about the exam which helps improve overall outcomes and helps us get to diagnoses faster.”
