eZono launches innovation for faster adoption of ultrasound-guided anesthesia

Widespread adoption of ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia has been hampered by complex technology and high training barriers. At the Deutscher Anasthesiecongress in Leipzig eZono AG unveils the eZono 3000, a novel ultrasound imaging solution that lowers these hurdles.

eZono 3000 is the first portable system designed for anesthesia applications from the ground up. Complexity is replaced by intuitive, context sensitive icon and gesture based control via a unique touch screen interface. Unprecedented processing power enhances imaging - all packed into a robust notebook form factor. eZono's patented on-board training system, Cue Cards, revolutionizes the learning experience. Cue Cards' break-through is to transform anesthetists' 3D static anatomical understanding to 2D real time sono-anatomy using rich multimedia content like 3D models, videos and images for synchronized reference and workflow guidance. This helps anesthetists to train faster and increase nerve block effectiveness. Furthermore the system automatically loads pre-sets, most common used system preferences, for a chosen anaesthesia or vascular access application.

"We are proud to introduce essential new features, like our Cue Cards, but also a more affordable system. Achieved by combining leading-edge technology, close collaboration with practising clinicians, and a lean supply-chain" says Allan Dunbar, eZono's Chief Executive Officer.

Ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia offers substantial advantages for patients and clinics

More regional anesthesia procedures replace general anesthesia due to reduced complications and thus increased patient satisfaction. Further, they are more cost effective for clinics due to faster through-put of patients. However, the key issue is to apply the anaesthetic around the nerve correctly in order to block the pain. Ultrasound imaging helps anesthetists not only to see the nerve but also to control the injection. "The usage of ultrasound is without doubt the most important development in regional anaesthesia and has the potential to revolutionize it" concludes associate professor Egbert Hüttemann, Klinikum Worms.

eZono 3000 helps to overcome the training, complexity and investment challenges

"Although ultrasound-guided anaesthesia is literally a no-brainer, still 80% of regional anaesthesia procedures in Germany are done 'blindly' - without ultrasound support." adds Reno Popp, surgeon and eZono's medical advisor. Unique training challenges and complexity have been so far the major barriers.

Complexity is reduced significantly due to eZono 3000's 10"4 touch screen in combination with an icon-based user interface. Furthermore the system features a novel way to adjust contrast and depth with a wipe of a finger. Fast boot time of less than 20 seconds, long battery life of up to 2.5h, and the built-in multimedia patient record database including data transfer capability via USB stick add to eZono 3000's benefits.

Traditional ultrasound has often been too expensive for anesthesia. Thus the eZono 3000 has been designed with budget pressures in mind. "Standard hardware makes the system more affordable than traditional ultrasound devices. On top, the system is future-proof as it allows further upgrades easily by plugging in a USB stick" concludes Allan Dunbar.

The eZono 3000 is available in EMEA starting May 2009.