Siemens Healthineers Introduces AI-Powered Ultrasound Technology at RSNA 2024
Siemens Healthineers announced a major software and hardware update to the Acuson Sequoia ultrasound system that leverages artificial intelligence (AI)-powered features for improved workflow and efficiency to enhance clinical performance. Acuson Sequoia 3.5 features AI Abdomen with improved ergonomics, and new solutions for breast and musculoskeletal (MSK) imaging. AI Abdomen is an industry-first technology that reduces sonographer hand motion by up to 89% compared with manual exams and up to 44% compared with protocol exams. The improved ergonomics of AI Abdomen benefit the 90% of ultrasound users who have reported scanning while in pain, related to pressure applied to the transducer, abduction of the arm, and twisting of the neck and trunk. AI Abdomen improves both examination and reading workflow through view identification and protocol standardization, with an algorithm that automatically recognizes and labels 17 anatomical views and calculates 12 key measurements.
AI Abdomen helps standardize exams across users, with a real-time organ-identification feature and freeze- measurement of organs. The algorithm provides consistent measurements across users, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and reducing variability associated with manual measurements. With AI-based detection, labeling and measurements, the user can focus on the patient who may be experiencing significant pain or discomfort due to a range of potential causes from kidney stones and digestive issues to cancerous tumors.
“With our continued focus on practical AI, we are committed to developing solutions that improve the ultrasound user’s clinical experience and improve workflow to standardize diagnostic results for patients,” said Ajay Gannerkote, head of Ultrasound, Siemens Healthineers.
Siemens Healthineers is collaborating with DeepHealth, Inc., to transform ultrasound operations through the implementation of SmartTechnology by embedding AI-powered health informatics within workflows and imaging hardware. The collaboration will combine Siemens Healthineers’ Acuson Sequoia ultrasound system, RadNet’s expertise in high-volume outpatient care, and DeepHealth’s SmartSonography™ solution powered by the cloud-native DeepHealth OS to tackle workflow and workforce challenges for enhanced operational efficiency and better patient experience.
SmartSonography is designed to include: 1) a remote-acquisition platform that will enable real-time scanning, assistance, training, monitoring, and protocol standardization across an imaging fleet from a single interface, intending to facilitate seamless collaboration and resource scaling in complex healthcare environments, efficient patient management and enhanced clinical confidence; 2) a cloud-native enterprise viewer accessible from anywhere that will combine essential Picture Archive and Communication Systems (PACS) functionality with cloud-native technology for fast image streaming and seamless access to data with the aim to increase diagnostic accuracy and consistency.