In order to address the growing need for primary stroke centers in the United States, and specifically South Florida, St. Marys Medical Center recently added a $2.8 million biplane special procedure room featuring the Innova 3131 digital flat panel biplane imaging system from GE Healthcare. In addition to elevating St. Marys to a Comprehensive Stroke Center, the purchase of this new equipment ensures the hospitals patients have access to the most advanced technology and life saving procedures available.
The highly detailed images of this digital X-ray imaging system make it possible to maneuver small devices such as catheters, stents and guide wires during neurovascular interventions, balloon angioplasties and other critical procedures. The Innova 3131 uses simultaneous vertical and lateral imaging to create three-dimensional images. Two-directional imaging quickens the total X-ray time, which reduces a patients exposure to radiation and contrast agents.
Speed is essential in diagnosing and treating a stroke, and with this new technology, patients can be evaluated and treated immediately after a stroke is confirmed.
When St. Marys emergency room receives a suspected stroke case, specialized medical staff with specific training and experience in stroke cases are alerted. The St. Marys “stroke team” includes emergency room physicians, neurologists, nurses and a CT scan staff. With the addition of the Innova 3131, patients also receive their image studies immediately, helping the team to decide the best course of action, whether it be IV, tPA, or an endovascular intervention.
Once the patients blockage is dissolved, they are moved to ICU where they are assessed continuously for hemorrhage or neurovascular changes. With the help of these procedures and advanced equipment like the Innova 3131, a patients chances of a full recovery can be greatly increased.
St. Marys addition of the Innova 3131, combined with its talented stroke team, has increased the level of service available to patients and augmented options for stroke treatment.
In order to address the growing need for primary stroke centers in the United States, and specifically South Florida, St. Marys Medical Center recently added a $2.8 million biplane special procedure room featuring the Innova 3131 digital flat panel biplane imaging system from GE Healthcare. In addition to elevating St. Marys to a Comprehensive Stroke Center, the purchase of this new equipment ensures the hospitals patients have access to the most advanced technology and life saving procedures available. 
