Performing cardiac catheterizations through the radial artery is proven to lower the risk of vascular complications, reduce major bleeding and improve patient recovery time when compared to femoral access. Shannon Medical Center, in San Angelo, Texas, installed Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.'s Infinix™ CF-i single plane vascular X-ray system to conduct radial interventions more easily and improve patient safety and outcomes while reducing costs. Toshiba's Infinix-i system enables Shannon to use the radial approach in more than 65 percent of its cases.
Because the Infinix CF-i single plane is a dedicated cardiac cath lab featuring a floor-mounted five-axis positioner, the system makes it possible to obtain images without repositioning patients. This is particularly important during radial interventions, allowing clinicians unencumbered patient access and an ergonomic setup for both right- and left-side approaches. The Infinix-i monitors float freely around the system and can be positioned for easy viewing regardless of procedure type.
"Radial artery access is undeniably the future of cardiac catheterization, and the flexibility and image quality of the Toshiba Infinix-i system facilitates safe and efficient interventions," said Dr. J. Chris McClish, interventional cardiologist, Shannon Medical Center. "For example, the system's lateral movement and fingertip-to-fingertip coverage enable catheter exchanges during procedures without adjusting the table and changing alignment. Radial is our default access site now, reducing complications and improving patient satisfaction."
Additionally, Shannon's increased use of radial access brings financial benefits. Radial interventions reduce post-procedure hospital stays and decrease procedure costs. Shannon has also experienced an increase in patient referrals, as they are the only facility in the area performing radial interventions.
"The Infinix CF-i single plane vascular X-ray system's unique design is an example of Toshiba's commitment to providing imaging solutions that improve patient care and safety and enhance efficiency, resulting in lower healthcare costs," said Stephen Bumb, director, X-ray Vascular Business Unit, Toshiba.