A new type of operating table for image-guided catheter-based endovascular and cardiovascular surgery is now being launched on the international market. When performing minimal invasive procedures surgeons using this table need not move the C-arm. In order to see the area of interest the surgeon is able instead to pan the table top while at the same time tilting the patient laterally.

The table top of this new operating table is tilted around a virtual axis above the table surface. This axis is on the plane of the aorta of a normal patient.
"This technique permits the surgeon to apply tilt and pan to the patient simultaneously without losing image focus. The catheter can thus be followed even when it is necessary to look underneath an obstruction," says Björn Zachrisson, Development Manager for the Swedish manufacturer Stille Surgical AB. In addition the table can provide 4-way panning, so-called "free float".
Thomas Nordh Larzon, assistant chief surgeon at the mid-Sweden regional hospital in Örebro, points out that it is "extremely useful to be able to avoid moving the C-arm during surgery".
"Not having to search for a focus reduces operating time and increases patient safety," adds Stille.
If more than one surgeon wants to pan the table top, two pan handles can be used. The image area covers about 180 cm longitudinally and about 50 cm laterally. This is more than enough to traverse a normal patient's torso or leg when panning.

Quick Trendelenburg mode
If an acute situation develops whereby the patient's condition must be quickly stabilised, the head and upper torso can be lowered into the Trendelenburg position using the table's "Quick-trend" function. Similarly, the headrest on its own can be angled steplessly downwards. A sliding handle permits the operating staff to use either hand to adjust the headrest when, for example, a patient requires intubation.

Low radiation dose
The ImagiQ operating table has been developed in co-operation with surgeons, anaesthetists and service staff. The table has a thin, translucent carbon fibre top. According to the manufacturer this material provides the maximum image quality with minimal radiation and will therefore also improve the working environment for operating room staff.
"Another advantage is also that the table height adjustment is simple, and the table is easy to move. Maneuverablility is very important in an emergency situation when a patient needs to be operated on quickly," says Thomas Nordh Larzon.
If during a minimal invasive operation the surgeon has to switch to an open procedure, the table has accessory rails along the sides to hold accessories.
The table is designed and manufactured in a modular fashion, which makes it easy to clean and service.

Company facts
Stille Surgical AB is a Swedish medical technology company with a long history. The company was founded in 1841. The products include in-house manufactured surgical instruments and mobile operating tables, and in the Scandinavian market the company also represents such brand names as Berchtold and Lemke. The ultimate aim is an IPO.

A Quick time video showing the ImagiQ operating table function and mobility can be seen on the Web site at www.stille.se.

Captions:
1. The new ImagiQ operating table has a low and compact base. This not only provides stability but also ensures that the table presents the least possible obstacle for staff and equipment during the operation.

2. The operating table is operated by means of a hand control. Panning of the table top is carried out by means of a panning handle that can be secured anywhere on the accessory rail.

Technical facts:
Table top
-length 195 cm (220 with headrest)
-width 55 cm
Table top height 71-109 cm
Base
-length 125 cm
-width 38/65 cm
-height 14/23 cm (locked)
Panning
-longitudinal 70 cm
-lateral 24 cm
Table weight approx. 275 kg
Patient weight limit 200 kg

For further information please contact:
Catharina Kjellander, Marketing Manager
Stille Surgical AB
PO Box 709
SE-169 27 Solna, Sweden
Tel +46 8 588 58 039
Fax +46 8 588 58 005
E-mail catharina.kjellander@stille.se