Achieving clarity in neurovascular care with cutting-edge imaging technology

One of the key benefits of advanced imaging technology in neurovascular care lies in its unparalleled image quality. Prof. Laurent Spelle, Chief of Service at Hôpital Bicêtre AP-HP in Paris, France, highlights the importance of exceptional image clarity in interventional neuroradiology: "First, we need image quality. The clarity [of the Philips Azurion system with SmartCT] provides wonderful picture quality compared to others."

High-resolution image-guided therapy systems like Azurion offer interventional specialists the ability to visualize intricate neurovascular structures with remarkable detail while minimizing radiation exposure. The system's advanced digital zoom capabilities further enhance visualization, allowing physicians to magnify images to closely examine critical anatomical features.

3D imaging has become an indispensable tool in neurovascular interventions, providing physicians with a comprehensive understanding of complex anatomy. As Prof. Spelle emphasizes, "3D imaging is absolutely mandatory for me. I always say to young doctors, 'If you don't see, you don't understand. And if you don't understand, you cannot treat.' And 3D is the key tool."

Part of the integrated Philips Neuro suite, these advanced imaging systems now offer intuitive 3D visualization and measurement tools, accessible directly from the tableside via a touchscreen module. This enables physicians to easily acquire, manipulate and analyze 3D images without disrupting their workflow.

Dr. Jildaz Caroff, an Interventional Neuroradiologist at Hôpital Bicêtre AP-HP, elaborates on the benefits of the Philips SmartCT interface: "3D imaging brings better precision in measurements and allows us to have a better understanding of the anatomy. And now with the SmartCT interface, it's very easy to use. We can do new reconstructions; we can do all the measurements directly in the angio suite without leaving the patient and the treatment."

In addition to enhancing image quality and 3D visualization, cutting-edge imaging technology also plays a crucial role in optimizing workflows in the neuro suite. Prof. Vincent Costalat, Department Head of Therapeutic & Diagnostic Neuroradiology at Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier in France, highlights the importance of an intuitive user interface: "The first reason we took the Philips [Azurion] system is the intuitive manner of managing the [touchscreen] and the [large monitor]. The ease of use makes the difference with other manufacturers."

Intelligent features, such as automatic positioning control (APC), enable physicians to save time and reduce radiation exposure during procedures. "Full APC is a significant improvement of Azurion compared to the last version. You just have to press a button and everything comes back to the initial position, so I would say that it is sparing X-ray exposure for patients. And you have a gain of time because you don't have to refocus and displace the table again," explains Prof. Costalat.

As neurovascular interventions become increasingly complex, the ability to simulate device placement and anticipate potential challenges is essential for procedural success. Cutting-edge imaging systems now offer seamless integration with device simulation software, allowing neurointerventionals to plan and refine their treatment strategies right from the angio suite.

Dr. Gregory Gascou, an Interventional Neuroradiologist at Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Montpellier, elaborates on this capability: "In this version, we can simulate the devices we want to put [in], like flow diverters. And now it's possible to simulate directly from the cath lab. You can very easily rotate, zoom or change a contrast with two fingers, like we usually do with a phone." This integration streamlines the planning process and enables physicians to make well-informed decisions, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes.

Cutting-edge imaging technology is transforming the landscape of neurovascular care, providing interventional neuroradiologists with the tools they need to diagnose and treat complex conditions with unparalleled precision and confidence. As the field continues to evolve, health system partnerships and feedback from physicians are crucial for driving innovation and improving patient care.

"The Azurion system with SmartCT is, for sure, the best system ever made by Philips," notes Prof. Spelle. "It has profited from the experience provided by the users, and it's something that is incredibly easy to use."

By combining advanced imaging technology, intuitive user interfaces, and seamless integration with the entire neuro suite, Philips is committed to empowering interventionalists to deliver the highest quality care to their patients. Through ongoing collaboration and a shared dedication to innovation, we can shape the future of neurovascular care and make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients worldwide.

Explore our flexible Neuro suite portfolio of integrated technologies, services and accessories for diverse neurovascular treatments.