IASSIST is Toshiba's revolutionary view of ergonomics and navigation. It comes with a remote control device, based on Bluetooth® wireless technology. With the remote control device any system function can be operated at the touch of a button, allowing an improved body position and reducing strain.

Especially when performing procedures which involve unnatural positions for operators like DVT, transvaginal or transrectal examination IASSIST can be a real asset. They now can adopt a scanning position with maximum comfort and minimum strain. And the operator is no longer restricted to the conventional scanning set-up.

In addition IASSIST allows users to define their own clinical protocols which can be activated in IASSIST by the touch of a button automatically switching imaging modes, parameters, display messages and record images. This is especially useful for teaching purposes and multicenter studies. If necessary, protocols can be interrupted and resumed at any time.

User Impressions  
 
Interview with Dr. Neil Pugh, Consultant Physicist, University of Wales, College of Medicine, Cardiff, UK

 
Where do you see the benefits of IASSIST?

For the first time we are able to adopt the most comfortable and least strenuous scanning position. Because of this improved body position, we can expect to reduce work-related upper limb disorders and injuries.
I have also noticed better communication with the patient during examination. They feel more at ease when the machine is not between them and the operator.

 
Have you noticed any limitations working with the remote control?

With the iDevice you have "fingertip control". You can operate any system function remotely at the touch of a button. You also have freedom and flexibility when it comes to positioning. The system can be placed anywhere in the room creating the most effective setting for the user. At last we can design the room around the operator, not around the machine.

 
Is it difficult to learn how to use IASSIST?

In our experience with six users we found very short learning curves. People were able to operate the system with only five minutes' practice. It's great that the iDevice can be tailored to your own work practices. It can be a personalized feature.
 

Results of a pilot study*  
  
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Recently a pilot study was conducted to assess the postural and musculoskeletal advantages of IASSIST. The study indicates that IASSIST provides improvement in sonographers' postures. They also find they have less discomfort and do not have to work as hard. The benefits seem beyond question.

As part of the pilot study Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) was selected as the postural assessment tool. REBA is a field tool developed especially to be sensitive to the types of unpredictable working postures found in health care (Hignett and McAtamney, 2000). REBA quantifies musculoskeletal risk by coding individual body segments and providing a scoring system for muscular activity. The REBA scores show clearly that IASSIST reduces the postural load on the user.

Postural analysis (REBA scores)

* by Ms E. Crumpton, Ergonomist

IASSIST is available on Aplio XG, Xario XG and Xario

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