Self-driving automated C-arm enables faster intraoperative imaging

Siemens Healthineers has developed an automated, self-driving C-arm system for intraoperative imaging in surgery. Equipped with holonomic, omnidirectional wheels that allow precise movements in small spaces, Ciartic Move allows easy and accurate positioning.

Using a remote control, the system can be moved to previously stored positions with the touch of a button.

Automated processes save time with more precise automatic adjustments facilitating reduced imaging times. The company says that Ciartic Move enables around 50 per cent time savings during spine, pelvic and distal radius surgery by enabling default positions and settings to be saved and recalled during the procedure.

“In conversations with our customers, the urgent need for a fully automated C-arm system to reduce the burden on surgical staff in the field of trauma surgery became apparent again and again. We have been developing this system over the past 10 years and are very pleased to be able to introduce Ciartic Move,” said head of advanced therapies at Siemens Healthineers Great Britain and Ireland Giovanni Accardo.

“The automation of intraoperative imaging, complete remote control and ease of use ensure fast and accurate workflows.”

Working in operating theatres can be physically demanding, with C-arms weighing up to half a ton being repositioned repeatedly to allow the exact anatomical views needed in real-time. With conventional mobile C-arms, this repetitive manual positioning can be time consuming and prone to error, while controlling and moving the device within operating theatres and between rooms requires a great deal of physical effort.

Ciartic Move returns to previously stored positions and settings at the touch of a button at any time during a procedure. Up to 12 process-specific 2D or 3D C-arm positions can be stored along with the associated image parameters. The system also has an active sensing technology that offers collision protection for greater safety.

Touch-sense handles on the back and detector allow for effortless motor-assisted movements during the procedure and make it easier to steer the system. In addition, a single person can operate the system remotely, even from the sterile area.

Picture: Siemens Healthineers has introduced the Ciartic Move automated, self-driving C-arm for intra- operative imaging in surgery.

Published on page 3 of the July 2024 issue of RAD Magazine.