3D imaging breakthrough puts heart surgeons in the picture

Launched in November by Philips Medical Systems, a world leader in the supply of diagnostic imaging equipment and complete medical solutions, the state-of-the-art equipment provides cardiac surgeons with a more accurate picture of the heart, making it easier to identify anomalies.

"The system can visualise complex cardiac anatomy previously concealed during routine 2D echo exams. It provides 3D images of anatomy instantaneously allowing surgeons to make more confident diagnoses," said Karen Lamble, Training and Applications Manager, Cardiology, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Philips Medical Systems.

"In the past heart surgeons have been reluctant to use echo imaging because of the time it took to construct a 3D image. Now, with the advent of real time 3D imaging a whole new market has opened up."

Another world first for Arab Health 2003 was the launch of a drug pre-screening system from Iritech of the US. The company claims the device is capable of detecting if an individual has taken drugs, illegal or legal, or drunk alcohol up to three weeks prior to the test.

Demonstrated at the exhibition by KhosroMedisaTeb (KMT), an Iranian medical sales, distribution and consultancy services group, the portable device targets hospitals, clinics, law enforcement agencies and airlines.

Other innovations making their Middle East debut at Arab Health 2003 include Mastascanelite, a multi-functional laboratory microbiological analyser, which drastically reduces the time taken to screen urine samples; the BacT/ALERT 3D automated microbial detection system that allows TB samples to be tested simultaneously alongside other blood samples and DaVinci, a high volume immunoassay analyser for detecting HIV. All three systems are being demonstrated at the show by Al Hayat, the Sharjah-based pharmaceutical and medical company.

In addition, Arab Health has been the venue for the Middle East launch of the piccoloR analyser, manufactured by Germany's Abaxis, a portable blood chemistry analyser, based on technology developed to test blood in space. There is also the iLook, the world's smallest ultrasound digital imaging device, from US-headquartered SonoSite and the MedicCleanAirR Pro mobile air cleaner, that saves lives and money by reducing airborne contamination risks in hospitals by over 90%. General Electric are also showcasing its VOLUSON 730, the world's first 4D ultrasound digital imaging system.

"Arab Health has consistently introduced the latest in medical equipment, services and patient treatment to the Middle East, much of which has contributed to the rapid development of quality healthcare in the region," said John Hassett, Exhibitions Director, Healthcare Division, IIR, organisers of Arab Health 2003.

"This year is no different. The vast array of cutting edge technology on display underscores the exhibition's position as the premier medical industry show in the Middle East and our commitment to bringing the latest diagnostic and patient care solutions to the region."

Over 940 companies, from 50 countries are participating at Arab Health 2003, including substantial government-backed delegations from Germany, the UK, Italy, USA, China and France. The exhibition also features over 100 UAE-based companies.

The exhibition is open until 6pm today and from 10am until 5pm tomorrow (Wednesday).

Arab Health 2003 is officially supported by the UAE Ministry of Health and is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, UAE Minister for Finance and Industry and President, Department of Health and Medical Services, Government of Dubai.