EIRMC is committed to remaining at the forefront of healthcare technology, and since 2010, has invested over $3.5 million for upgrades to Medical Imaging technology. The investment of the Innova 4100, the Bi-Plane Angiography System, and the first O-Arm Imaging System in Idaho, sets ERIMC apart as the regional leader in Medical Imaging and Interventional Radiology.
The Innova 4100 uses the newest 3D and CT combined-modality imaging to give detailed images right in the angiography suite, and also provides soft-tissue visualization for clearer identification of suspected lesions. It essentially fuses 3D images normally acquired with a CT into the live image-guided interventional environment.
Dr. James “Fritz” Schmutz, Interventional Radiologist, explains how the Innova 4100 helps patients. “Before this equipment, I relied on X-rays to help me position the needles. But the Innova takes the routine world of X-Ray Angio and infuses it with CT-scan imagery on the spot. I can see exactly where my needle, guide wire, and coils are going. Patients in this community are unusually fortunate to have this type of equipment and medical expertise available to them.”
The Bi-Plane Angiography System allows for simultaneous digital imaging, shows spatial relations more accurately on images, reduces procedure times (because two angles of the imaging area are captured simultaneously), requires less contrast dye, and reduces radiation exposure.
These upgraded angiography capabilities give patients access to the most advanced all-digital vascular and interventional imaging system available. The result is an increase in the diagnostic and therapeutic effectiveness of procedures done by expert Interventional Radiologists, the most active group in the state.
The O-Arm Imaging System gives surgeons CT-like images to view right in the Operating Room, allowing for crisp, real-time, multi-plane 3D and 2D images. Better still, the O-Arm gives the surgeon a 360-degree view of screw placements, allowing him to make adjustments before “closing” the surgery. This reduces the need for costly and difficult revisions.
