Siemens 2007 Annual Report Download - page 66

66 Healthcare
Integrated diagnostics are improving
healthcare quality
Patients are destined to reap great benefi ts from the
ever greater integration of imaging and laboratory
diagnostics. Today, doctors can obtain razor-sharp
three-dimensional images of the heart and its ves-
sels from computed tomography (CT) systems such
as our dual-source Somatom Defi nition CT scanner.
However, the chances of detecting dangerous vascu-
lar changes (so-called vulnerable plaques) early on
are often still limited – for example, in the case of
young at-risk patients – since imaging diagnostics
are not routinely performed at the pre-symptomatic
stage. As laboratories and radiology departments be-
come more closely networked, it’s conceivable that
blood tests could be used to assess whether individ-
uals may be prone to future heart attacks. CT scans
could then be carried out on high-risk patients to
obtain a precise diagnosis and initiate suitable treat-
ment.
Integrated diagnostics has tremendous potential in
the fi eld of oncology as well. In the future, genetic
testing could provide an initial risk assessment for
various types of cancer, for example, breast cancer.
High-risk patients could then be advised to have
more frequent screenings. Laboratory diagnostics
also help detect cancer at an early stage by uncover-
ing disease-specifi c tumor markers such as cancer
antigens. State-of-the-art imaging systems can then
be used to pinpoint the disease and treatment can
begin, improving patient outcomes while minimiz-
ing costs.
Innovation is our lifeblood
The innovations we introduced in 2007 are also part
of our strategy to enhance the quality of care while
cutting costs.
With our Magnetom Essenza and Magnetom Verio
systems – two trailblazing magnetic resonance im-
aging (MRI) scanners based on Total imaging matrix
(Tim) technology – we’ve once again proven our
technological leadership. Priced well below conven-
tional systems, Magnetom Essenza (pictured above,
left) is the most affordable, all-new 1.5-tesla MRI
system on the market. It was developed from the
ground up to meet low budgets for purchase, instal-
lation and operation – through new innovations.
The Magnetom Verio (pictured on page 64) is the