Philips Unveils the Elevate Plus Ultrasound System
In a significant advancement for healthcare technology, Philips Japan has officially launched the latest generation of its ultrasound diagnostic systems, the
Elevate Plus, which is part of the EPIQ Elite and Affiniti series. This new model will be available for purchase starting May 26, enhancing the quality and efficiency of medical imaging diagnostics.
The utilization of ultrasound diagnostics is widespread in clinical settings due to its non-invasive nature and real-time capabilities. However, the quality of image acquisition and evaluation often depends on the operator's skill, which raises concerns about objectivity and reproducibility. To combat these issues, Philips has integrated advanced automation technologies and sophisticated imaging processing techniques that aim to reduce variability among operators while ensuring consistent image quality and diagnostic support.
The Elevate Plus builds upon the established Elevate platform, incorporating new automation features and enhanced imaging techniques aimed at improving both examination efficiency and diagnostic support capabilities. One notable update includes a redesign of the user interface, shifting from an amber accent color to a modern blue, promoting consistency across Philips’ ultrasound product line.
Key Features of Elevate Plus
1. Enhanced Image Quality with xRes Pro+
The Elevate Plus employs
xRes Pro+, an advanced post-processing technology that significantly improves image quality. This system facilitates precise, adaptive image processing tailored to the organization and shape of tissues. By enhancing structural boundaries and sharpness, it is especially beneficial for visualizing anatomical details in the breast, thyroid, and musculoskeletal regions, contributing to the detection of subtle anatomical changes. Additionally, it dynamically optimizes imaging parameters based on the patient's body composition and depth of imaging, resulting in uniform and natural texture representations, thus supporting the acquisition of consistently high-quality images.
2. Streamlined Image Capture with Auto Cine
A common challenge in ultrasound imaging occurs when screens freeze at unintended frames, requiring the operator to manually rewind and select the best frames for still images. The
Auto Cine feature simplifies this process by automatically selecting clear images from the most recent cine loop during freeze frames, enhancing efficiency. For 2D imaging, it ensures that less blurry frames are captured, and for color Doppler imaging, it analyzes characteristics such as blood flow signal intensity to select optimal frames. This results in reduced operator stress and improved reliability in diagnostics through the preservation of high-quality images.
3. Next-Generation Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound with Super Resolution MVI Pro
The Elevate Plus further includes the
Super Resolution Micro Vascular Imaging (MVI) Pro, an evolution of high-resolution analysis for Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS). This feature enhances the functionality of the prior technology by integrating the
Time of Arrival (TOA) and
Time to Peak (TTP) parametric maps that indicate when the contrast agent reaches its maximum concentration within a lesion or tissue. By utilizing both TOA and TTP, the system aids healthcare professionals in accurately evaluating lesion types. Additionally, it introduces quantitative analysis features, providing detailed metrics such as arrival times and standard deviations for specified regions of interest (ROIs), contributing to comprehensive tumor assessments.
Philips Japan, founded in 1953 as the Japanese arm of Royal Philips, has established itself as a leading company in healthcare technology, focusing on the development and provision of medical devices aimed at improving health and quality of life. With a presence in over 70 locations across Japan and a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees, Philips is dedicated to addressing the challenges presented by Japan's rapidly aging population, playing a crucial role in enhancing patient care and healthcare outcomes.
Conclusion
In summary, the Elevate Plus represents a significant leap forward in ultrasound technology, embodying Philips' commitment to delivering superior diagnostic capabilities while addressing modern healthcare challenges such as increasing patient volumes and staffing shortages. By focusing on quality, comfort, and efficiency, this new system stands to improve both the operational aspects of healthcare environments and the overall patient experience.