GE Healthcare today launched two new cardiovascular products, the Vivid i and Vivid 7 today at its research and development center in Tirat Hacarmel, Haifa. The two systems were developed and researched in Israel in cooperation with the GE Healthcare Norway's ultrasound team.
Vivid i is the world’s first miniaturized cardiovascular ultrasound system. The system makes it possible for patients to receive diagnostic exams anywhere, including bedside, as opposed being transported to an imaging lab in a hospital. In addition, Vivid i features wireless capabilities, enabling physicians to transfer files instantly from the system to other physicians for consultation.
GE’s engineers developed Vivid i by miniaturizing the components of a premium echocardiography system weighing more than 400 pounds (180 kilograms), to provide a portable system weighing only 10 pounds (less than five kilograms).
The new Vivid 7 Dimension cardiovascular ultrasound system integrates real-time 4D and multi-dimensional imaging capabilities. It provides clinicians with new tools for detecting and diagnosing heart conditions such as heart failure in patients.
Attending the launch were GE Healthcare clinical systems unit president and CEO Omar Ishrak, GE Healthcare cardiac ultrasound unit general manager Anders Wold, Prof. Zvi Vered, head of cardiology at Asaf Harofe Medical Center, and GE Healthcare Israel ultrasound head Alex Silberklang
Ishrak said today that the new system will establish a completely new standard of efficiency for physicians. “The mobility of Vivid i will allow physicians to deliver care to the patient wherever it’s needed. The freedom laptops and PDAs have brought to business will now be available to healthcare.”
“Vivid 7 Dimension demonstrates our leadership in the industry and underscores our commitment to continuous innovation in ultrasound."
The systems are now being marketed globally, and are representedin Israel by Eldan.
GE Healthcare is a $14 billion unit of General Electric Company (NYSE: GE) that is headquartered in the United Kingdom. GE Healthcare employs more than 42,500 people in more than 100 countries.
GE Healthcare Israel conducts research and development of advanced ultrasound systems. The center in Tirat Hacarmel employs 350 employees in Israel.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes.co.il - on Tuesday, May 17, 2005