From routine to advanced reading

Siemens Healthcare introduced the new version (VA20) of its routine 3D and advanced reading software syngo.via, which was on display at the 98th Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) 2012 in Chicago.

This new version features expanded mobile applications as well as enhanced functionality and additional applications. As an example, syngo.via now includes new applications for mammography reading and complex examinations in neurology, oncology, and cardiovascular diagnostics. Siemens also presented an entry-level software package for 3D visualization of computed tomography (CT) examinations.

The new syngo.via version supports hospitals and practices enhance efficiency by means of IT, which is one of the goals of Siemens Healthcare’s initiative Agenda 2013.

The picture shows syngo.via WebViewer, the solution for fast 3D reading and viewing of images within the hospital network.

The new version of syngo.via now offers optional applications that can be used in reviewing mammograms. Furthermore, as scans can be compared with images from other modalities without the need to switch applications, syngo.via helps streamline workflow. In addition, new applications for syngo.via include, among others, MR Vascular Analysis for quantifying vascular findings. If the radiologist identifies a stenosis, for example, the software can provide quantitative information such as the length or degree of the constriction in the blood vessel.

Enhanced Functionality

Another new feature, called Region Growing enables syngo.via users to better visualize anatomical structures from volume datasets, for example from vascular or neurological examinations. This improved view assists both the diagnosis and surgical planning. The new feature, Automatic Spine Labeling, automatically labels the vertebrae in 2D and 3D images from CT or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), allowing the radiologist to quickly refer to these labels when dictating a diagnosis rather than having to identify the vertebrae manually.

New entry-level solution syngo.via Element

With syngo.via Element, Siemens presented an entry-level solution for 3D routine and advanced reading. This software package is based on the latest syngo.via version and includes applications and functionalities specifically designed for reading CT studies, for example in neurology and oncology. Syngo.via Element is designed to meet the needs of specialized practices and community hospitals. In many cases, a practice may need to rely on some high-quality 3D visualization software applications, but may not require a full suite of syngo.via applications. Syngo.via Element is available with the Somatom Perspective and Somatom Emotion CT scanners from Siemens.

Diagnostic reading on the iPad

A new version of the mobile application syngo.via WebViewer was also presented. Users are not only able to view images and reports, but when they find themselves without access to a diagnostic workstation, they can now perform diagnostic reading directly on the iPad. Syngo.via WebViewer provides access to images from MRI, CT and now also images from computed and digital radiography, PET (positron emission tomography), and PET/CT devices. To simplify use in clinical routine, new layouts allow for the display of multiplanar reconstructions on one screen. This makes it easier for users to navigate through the 3D anatomy to get a better overview of the case. Depending on the number of users required to work simultaneously, syngo.via WebViewer can be configured as an integrated solution with syngo.via, which eliminates the need for additional server hardware, helping to save costs.

Launched in November 2011, “Agenda 2013” is the initiative of the Siemens Healthcare Sector to further strengthen its innovative power and competitiveness. Specific measures, which will be implemented by the end of 2013, have been defined in four fields of action: innovation, competitiveness, regional footprint, and people development.

The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry and a trendsetter in medical imaging, laboratory diagnostics, medical information technology and hearing aids. Siemens offers its customers products and solutions for the entire range of patient care from a single source – from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, and on to treatment and aftercare. By optimizing clinical workflows for the most common diseases, Siemens also makes healthcare faster, better and more cost-effective. Siemens Healthcare employs some 51,000 employees worldwide and operates around the world. In fiscal year 2012 (to September 30), the Sector posted revenue of 13.6 billion euros and profit of around 1.8 billion euros. For further information please visit: http://www.siemens.com/healthcare

Syngo.via can be used as a standalone device or together with a variety of syngo.via-based software options, which are medical devices in their own rights.

The new version of syngo.via (VA20) is pending 510(k) clearance, and is not yet commercially available in the United States.

The syngo.via based software option MR Vascular Analysis is work in progress and is not yet commercially available in the United States.

The new syngo.via WebViewer version VA11 is under development and not available for sale in the U.S. VA11 for diagnostic purpose on mobile devices in the U.S. is not intended to replace a workstation, thus it is intended for use only when there is no access to a workstation.

For Japan: Applications on iPhone/iPad/iPod are not a medical device in Japan. Use at your own risk. They are not intended to be used for diagnosis.

The iPhone and the iPad are registered trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Reference Number: HIM201211002e

Contact
Ms. Stefanie Schiller
Healthcare Sector
Siemens AG
Henkestr. 127
91052 Erlangen
Germany
Tel: +49 (9131) 84-7803
schiller.stefanie@siemens.com