Despite a turbulent economic year, University was able to reinvest $10,973,360 in technological upgrades, so we can continue to provide clinical excellence and optimal patient outcomes. This figure does not include any costs for the new Heart & Vascular Institute.
University is easily one of the best equipped hospitals in the state of Georgia. Since 2000, more than $200 million has been reinvested in technology, which paved the way for the 280,000 cardiac catheterizations and 1.8 million radiology procedures performed in the past decade. From a new neurosurgical microscope and navigational system to preparing for electronic medical records, our facilities are integrating wireless and digital technology through all modalities. We have expanded our robotics program, enabling surgeons to perform precision work with very small incisions and faster recovery. Radiology is one of the most dynamic fields in medicine, with more advancements than ever before available to diagnose and treat patients. Thanks to the support of our Board of Trustees, we were able to advance technology and services to include:
Panda Infant Warmers
Panda Infant Warmers. These new beds feature innovative clinical improvements that respond to the needs of newborns, caregivers and families, the most recognizable of which is the innovative recessed heater that completely eliminates the traditional, often awkward, overhead design, improving clinician and parent access to the infant, removing overhead obstacles while providing uniform heat across the entire mattress.
Cardiovascular Ultrasound Imaging. This noninvasive technology offers the latest in three dimensional visualization for advanced analysis and diagnosis of heart abnormalities. The technology provides better images of cardiac structures, thereby reducing the need for more invasive procedures to define pathologies and plan for surgery if needed.
Zeiss Microscope and Stealth Navigational System. These tools of the trade for advanced neurosurgery help differentiate tumors from healthy tissue, which enables surgeons to remove tissue more completely and selectively. That means fewer problems after surgery and improved patient outcomes. The integrated digital visualization and interface with the hospital's Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACs) means intraoperative diagnostics, clear identification of fluorescent tumor edges, decreased time the patient is in the operating room and under anesthesia and no interruption of surgery for intraoperative angiography.
Sonara Digital Transcranial Doppler. This modern digital doppler technology greatly benefits patients through immediate scans and measurements, providing more data to aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of patients at risk for stroke. Physicians are able to quickly investigate flow disturbances noted on the high resolution display and customize the display to the specific area of interest.
Olympus BF UC 180F Bronchoscope and Ultrasound Processor. This scope system provides a more efficient and accurate method for diagnosis and staging in the chest area, with simultaneous confirmation of blood flow conditions.
GlideScope Video Laryngoscopes. Designed for difficult and unpredictable airways, these scopes provide a clear, real time view of the patient's airway and endotracheal tube placement with an integrated, high-resolution camera.
Craniotomy Instrumentation. These replacement and upgraded surgical instruments are used in delicate skull surgery for various neurological diseases, injuries or conditions such as brain tumors or aneurysms.
Transonic Flow-QC Hemodialysis Monitoring. Recommended by the National Kidney Foundation, this surveillance system improves dialysis efficiency and reduces the need for catheter replacements and hospital admissions.