VIENNA - GE Healthcare is using this week's European Congress of Radiology (ECR) to launch Dexus, a new software platform designed to provide a unified workflow environment for reading medical imaging studies.
Dexus is designed to link GE PACS networks and Advantage Workstation (AW) modality consoles into a seamless environment that enables users to read studies and access advanced visualization tools regardless of location. The Dexus concept will also include the ability to review diagnostic images on mobile devices like iPads, once regulatory clearances are received.
To develop Dexus, GE brought in elements of its Centricity Cardiology and Centricity PACS-IW software applications and integrated them with modality console technology, including AW Workstation and AW Server, according to Paul Edwards, GE's product manager for AW in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa region. With the new concept, any PC, laptop, or PACS desktop can be used for 2D, 3D, or 4D postprocessing, with access to advanced AW applications.
Dexus users also get new tools for remote image review and sharing, with exams automatically processed in the background as soon as they are transferred -- clinicians no longer have to wait for image processing to occur before they can start reading, according to the company.
Dexus also enables the use of a common user interface across acquisition consoles, workstations, PACS, and desktops, reducing training requirements. The concept also includes specialized environments for oncology, neurology, cardiovascular, and interventional specialties.
With respect to mobile devices like iPads and iPhones, GE plans to offer image review capabilities with a particular emphasis on low-bandwidth connections, Edwards said. Dexus for iPad is currently available as an app in the iTunes Store, but it has not yet been cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for diagnostic use.
GE will make Dexus available as an upgrade to existing customers. It works most seamlessly with customers who are using both GE PACS and modality scanners, but it can also integrate with third-party PACS applications, Edwards said.
GE discussed Dexus with customers at the RSNA meeting last year, but this week's ECR marks the official launch of the product, he added.
