SonoSite

SonoCalc IMT / Product Specifications

SonoSite's SonoCalc IMT product has been designed to automate the evaluation of carotid ultrasound images and allow the clinician to obtain accurate, reliable results quickly. The patented edge-detection software analyzes each image, isolates the intima and media layers, measures the IMT and reports the average and maximum IMT values. The user can also record the maximal thickness found in a segment for reference to other studies which have considered that measure. This information, along with a snapshot image of the artery is presented on a simple report form for review with the patient.

SONOCALC IMT SOFTWARE FEATURES:

• Fully automated, single click IMT measurement
• Semi-automated, user guided IMT measurement for difficult images
• Statistical analysis of multiple IMT measurements including mean, standard deviation, minimum IMT measurement, maximum IMT measurement, and maximum thickest sub-segment for each IMT measurement.
• IMT measurements stored with corresponding patient information including age as well as presence and size of focal plaque for future reference.
• IMT measurement regeneration: SonoCalc IMT has the ability to review a previously measured IMT value by automatically re-loading the appropriate digital image and automatically applying the exact measurement constraints to reproduce a given IMT measurement. This is useful for reviewing a questionable IMT measurement. This can also be used to review another operator's measurement procedure for verification or training purposes.
• Professional report generation (printable or screen-viewable) summarizing one or more IMT measurements for a particular patient.
• On-line help available directly from the SonoCalc IMT application.

THE EXAM:

• After a brief explanation of the procedure, the patient reclines on the examination table with their neck extended.
• The physician places the ultrasound probe on the patient's neck and isolates and acquires images of the carotid artery. Longitudinal images are acquired in anterior, posterior and lateral/direct views from both the left and right carotid arteries, generally in the portion just proximal to the bifurcation.
• As the images are being acquired, the physician can note the presence of visible, focal plaque as well as areas of possible thickening of the IMT.
• All images are saved on the ultrasound system for further review and analysis.

USING SONOCALC IMT TO GET THE WHOLE PICTURE:

• Once all of the images have been captured, they are downloaded to a PC using SonoSite's SiteLink software.
• The physican then launches the SonoCalc IMT software and creates a new patient profile. The software allows information like age, gender and ethnicity to be used along with IMT data to create a complete patient profile.
• Using the software, the physician can analyze the series of captured images and produce a complete patient profile report, detailing mean and maximal IMT as well as showing the patient's results in relation to published IMT study data.
• The physician can also save a copy of the report in the patient's file for use in serial measurement tracking. This can be particularly useful in tracking the effect of treatment over time. A copy can also be printed for the patient so they have a visual reminder, to aid in compliance with treatment.

REQUIREMENTS

SonoCalc is a PC-based application, requiring MicroSoft Windows 2000 or XP. Software is optimized to work with digital output of SonoSite's MicroMaxx, TITAN and 180PLUS platforms with a 38 mm linear probe. SonoCalc IMT available as an offline option on SonoSite's MicroMaxx, TITAN and 180PLUS, and as an embedded option on MicroMaxx. Images are downloaded via SiteLink (.bmp image format) to PC.