MALVERN, Pa., Nov 07, 2005 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Siemens Medical Solutions is launching a new fluoroscopy design, the AXIOM Luminos TF. This tableside fluoroscopy system, developed in conjunction with leading medical facilities across the country, is designed to accommodate the growing population of obese and bariatric patients. The advanced imaging capabilities of the new AXIOM Luminos TF will be showcased for the first time at the 91st Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) from November 27 through December 2 in Chicago (booth # 4337).

"AXIOM Luminos TF demonstrates Siemens' commitment to helping our customers achieve optimal performance and improve patient care," said Manfred Fink, vice president, Angiography and X-ray Division, Siemens Medical Solutions. "Our customers were instrumental in the development of this system -- they were our chief engineers. After all, no one knows what type of system can best service today's radiology department better than the people who put it to daily use. The AXIOM Luminos TF not only addresses our customers need for an easy-to-use tableside fluoroscopy system, but it provides a complete solution to accommodate most patients, including obese and bariatric patients."

Siemens surveyed radiologists and physicians at 13 medical facilities to determine the product specifications of the new system. Due to a recent spike in bariatric procedures, customers cited increased weight capacity as the top priority. Featuring a wide table and high weight limit, AXIOM Luminos TF is designed for a full range of patient profiles. The system can support up to 600 pounds in the locked horizontal position and 500 pounds with table movement. Additionally, a spacious 55 cm wide opening between the imaging table and intensifier enables larger patients to fit easily within the system, providing for more comfortable positioning. The larger space is also advantageous for applications such as swallow studies, where wheelchair-bound patients are imaged in an upright position.

"As the obesity epidemic in this country continues, our need for fluoroscopy systems that can handle larger patients increases," said Mary Ann Turner, M.D., Professor and Director, Gastrointestinal Radiology, VCU Medical Center/Medical College of Virginia. "The new AXIOM Luminos will allow physicians to image larger patients who might otherwise be turned away or forced to stand for a study because of their weight."

In addition to enhanced bariatric capabilities, the system's optional mobile Flat Detector enables facilities to improve their workflow. The mobile Flat Detector eliminates the need to use film or computed radiography (CR) cassettes thereby reducing the number of steps in the imaging process. All images can be automatically stored in one patient folder, eliminating the need to manually merge images on the PACS workstation. This digitally integrated solution not only improves workflow but also allows technologists to focus more on the patient.

Standard on all AXIOM Luminos TF systems is an easy-to-use intuitive user interface, which allows physicians to complete more exams in less time. Ergonomic handles positioned in the front of the system provide for improved operator comfort and flexibility, while tableside controls are configured to provide for the most commonly used features.

The AXIOM Luminos TF provides all of the performance standards common to other AXIOM products, including enhanced workflow and efficiency, optimal image quality, reduced radiation dose, and patient comfort. The latest software capabilities help to simplify user operations. It is equipped with syngo(R), Siemens' standard user interface, which helps to further optimize workflow in radiology units. Additionally, the technology is a PC-based digital platform that runs on Windows NT(R), which requires low maintenance and provides high uptime.

Siemens' imaging technologies are supported by the company's service Organization and Accessory Solutions group to ensure that customers get the most out of the technology, thus maximizing return on investment.

Focused on proactive, preventive service to help customers stay up and running so they can take better care of their patients, Siemens Service Organization promotes proactive maintenance, maximum uptime and increased profitability and usability of its customers' systems. A comprehensive portfolio of enhanced productivity services, from remote diagnostics and antivirus protection to integrated customer care solutions is offered to meet the exact needs of large medical facilities, community hospitals and diagnostic imaging centers.

Siemens Accessory Solutions group complements the company's complete solutions for diagnostics and therapy, with competitive pricing and the ease of acquisition from a single source. Accessories include documentation systems, injectors, laser cameras, quality assurance products, positioning devices and table related accessories, special furniture and much more.