Siemens 3-D Angiography Imaging Software Cleared by FDA

Malvern, Pa., February 16, 2012 – Siemens Healthcare recently received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for syngo Aortic ValveGuide, an integrated image processing software that helps cardiologists and cardiac surgeons prepare and perform transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The syngo Aortic ValveGuide automatically reconstructs a 3D representation of the aortic root from cross-sectional images acquired with the angiography system and provides the best projection angle for the valve replacement. The software selects anatomical landmarks and overlays the 3D image with 2D images acquired during live fluoroscopy, enabling the physician to obtain real-time 3D guidance in the patient’s body while navigating the new valve to its intended location. This groundbreaking software, which is now available to customers, reflects the spirit of Siemens Healthcare’s Agenda 2013 – a recently announced two-year initiative designed in part to strengthen the Healthcare Sector's innovative power and competitiveness.

During the minimally invasive TAVR intervention, an artificial aortic valve is inserted via the femoral artery or through the apex of the heart. syngo Aortic ValveGuide provides the physician with automated 3D guidance by segmenting the aortic root in 3D mode from images created using the angiography system. With the aid of anatomical landmarks in the 3D vessel representation, syngo Aortic ValveGuide calculates the exact perpendicular view on the aortic root. The C-arm adjusts to the corresponding angulations for live fluoroscopy, enabling the physician to precisely position the new valve. Consequently, as soon as the software overlays the 3D image of the aorta with the 2D live fluoroscopy, the cath lab cardiologist – or, respectively, the heart surgeon in the hybrid OR – can begin the intervention.

source: Siemens Medical