P10, fits into a coat pocket and weighs just 700 grams
Siemens Healthcare (Siemens) has reported an evaluation report by Kcare, for the Centre for Evidence-based Purchasing (CEP), on the Acuson P10 ultrasound system. It suggests that use of the handheld unit may reduce the number of people referred for full ultrasound examinations. The evaluation also highlights particular benefits in cardiology, obstetrics and emergency triage due to its portability.
The P10 is a handheld ultrasound system small enough to fit into a coat pocket and weighing just 700 grams, claims the company. It enables examinations to take place at the patient’s bedside, in GP practices and in trauma situations.
The company claims that P10’s role in cardiology could assist initial referral or assessment on ward rounds, providing basic information without the need to perform a full echocardiogram. Similarly, use in obstetrics could provide clinicians with quick information without the wait for a full ultrasound scan.
In addition, the application in emergency situations could confirm ruptured aortas, assess cardiac motion or investigate free fluid at trauma scenes or in the A&E department.
Declan Dunphy, product manager of ultrasound at Siemens, said: “The P10 offers a low cost, portable solution to assist frontline health professionals. The portability of the P10 opens the door to wider application in the traditional hospital environment, extends into primary care settings and introduces a new imaging resource at frontline emergency incidents.”