Achieving end-to-end efficiency in ultrasound workflow

The dynamic healthcare environment requires that imaging exams be conducted as quickly and efficiently as possible while delivering high-quality results. EPIQ Elite and Affiniti ultrasound systems streamline workflow with end-to-end efficiency advances that help create enhanced experiences for users and patients alike. The objective of the study was to compare workflow efficiency measured during standardized ultrasound exam protocols completed using the next-generation release of the EPIQ Elite ultrasound system compared to the legacy EPIQ Elite ultrasound system.

The study was performed using EPIQ Elite ultrasound machines. Affiniti and EPIQ Elite share a common user interface. Ten subjects were scanned by each of the five sonographers on both current and legacy systems, resulting in a total number of approximately 100 exams.* Workflow efficiency was measured using software that recorded scan time and the number of button pushes to complete the exam.

Per-subject analysis of the button pushes demonstrated higher efficiency with the next-generation EPIQ Elite system, resulting a significant reduction of imaging button pushes of -53.95% [-60.65%, -47.24%] compared to the legacy system (p<0.0001). Fewer button pushes were needed during the entire exam in 84% of the exams.** A consistently high satisfaction score, averaging 4.6 out of 5.0, was achieved for overall image quality, including image uniformity during changes of image depth and image quality of the vessel lumen.

Next Gen AutoSCAN is the driver of Philips advances in workflow efficiency. It improves image uniformity, adaptively adjusting brightness at every pixel. This reduces the need for manual adjustment while also allowing for increased transducer plunkability.