The University Hospital of Montpellier (CHU) in Montpellier, France, Europe’s oldest medical faculty, was the very first in Europe to install the new Xavion RF System. The potential of the AI-supported remote controlled table, wireless detector, and intuitive software suite were the key factors in CHU’s choice. VISIONS spoke to Prof. Boris Guiu and Mr. Guillaume Giangrasso of the Radiology department to find out in detail how the system has already significantly streamlined their workflows, improved the management of examinations and enhanced patient comfort.

Prof. Boris Guiu is the Head of Radiology and the Digestive Poli at the Hospital, which encompasses the departments of anesthesia-intensive care, hepatology, gastroenterology, digestive surgery, as well as radiology. He leads a team that is specialized in digestive radiology, oncology, functional- and bariatric imaging and treatment. The team consists of 11 specialists, 39 radiographers, and 10 secretaries.

“Our main challenge is to provide continuous improvement in the quality of care for patients referred to us or treated by Interventional Radiology,” he remarked. “Our old radiology table reached the end of its lifespan. We researched a replacement carefully, for over a year, which involved consulting manufacturers.”

A ground-breaking detector
The Xavion system is equipped with a Canon CXDI-B1 detector for radiographic and fluoroscopic imaging. This unique, wireless detector combines outstanding static imaging capabilities with high sensitivity, and high-resolution dynamic capabilities.

“Canon’s Xavion solution features a mobile, wireless detector that allows us to image bedridden patients without moving them, which stood out as a particularly strong benefit.” Said Prof. Guiu.

Comfort zone
Canon has ensured that the Xavion offers optimal comfort and ease of use for patients, as well as users. The system is adaptable for an extremely wide variety of patient needs including those of children, elderly, and obese patients. This enables the provision of comprehensive care for a diverse patient population. Xavion’s table can lower to a height of 48 cm and it is driven by silent motors for precise motion control and quiet maneuverability, adding to patient comfort. With Xavion’s built in ambient lighting and Music, a relaxing atmosphere can be created for examinations to ease anxiety.

Well-positioned
Advanced software innovations within the Xavion vastly improve patient positioning. Its automated workflow adapts filters and dose settings based on the patients morphology, allowing for a smoother and more efficient user experience. The newly developed user interface, with a touchscreen in the examination room, provides fluid control of table movements and imaging and allows for further personalization of the patient experience through easy adjustment of settings by operators.

Other special positioning features include, fast tilting, with a +/- 90° motorized adjustment for access and positioning; ‘Get-the-Position’, which enables users to follow table movements on the LIH image displayed on the monitor and ‘Go-to-Position, which allows auto positioning of the table with a simple click on the LIH image.

“In addition to the unique detector, the system’s ergonomics are very welcoming for the patient and make it easy to use,” added Prof. Guiu. “The ‘intelligent’ placement of the patient which is possible with the Xavion means less radiation and fluoroscopy are required. Both are great plus points!”

Exceptional imaging capabilities
The Canon CXDI-B1 detector has a very large imaging surface capability (effective imaging area of 41.5 cm x 42.5 cm) and capacity to deliver exceptional image quality, even at high speeds, (160μ for radiography, fluoroscopy and serial examinations and fluoroscopy with up to 30 fps) ensure accurate diagnostics.

Guillaume Giangrasso, Chief Radiographer at the Hospital, explained what a difference the new system has made in his work.

“The integrated Canon detector ensures high-quality images, providing precise and detailed results for accurate diagnostics,” he remarked. “The light and easy-to-handle detector and the easy removal process for the detector tray are an additional benefit and facilitate manual exposures with in-bed patients.”

Smart image processing
The Xavion system incorporates advanced features like automatic patient morphology selection, preset radio/ fluoroscopy parameters, and smart image processing, significantly reducing radiation dose and optimizing patient safety.

“The Xavion software enhances efficiency by allowing radiographers to focus on patients and examinations. Its intuitive design ensures that necessary steps are clear and do not require extensive training, even for those who haven't operated the system recently,” said Guillaume. “Xavion dose-saving features asymmetric collimation and auto-positioning of patients through Last Image Hold, eliminate the need for X-rays during positioning.”

Transforming workflows
Xavion software transforms the imaging workflow through intuitive navigation, efficiency and automation. It simplifies operations by providing the right tool at the right time, minimizing wasted time and clicks. This modern, user-friendly platform, featuring a customizable touch screen, optimizes workflow and ensures consistent imaging processes, bringing the next generation of RF technology to reality. This contributes towards helping the team work more effectively, particularly in dealing with the challenges posed by extended patient lists.

“Xavion simplifies workflow management thanks to its intuitive design, efficient management of system protocols and ergonomic screen layout ensure fast, error-free operation,” said Guillaume. “

“The system provides ease of use with features such as adjustable working height (up to 130 cm), a 7-axis hands-free positioning pedal, and sufficient working space around the table for effective patient transfer and positioning,” he added .“And it offers operational flexibility, allowing control of table movements from five different points in the room and enhancing workflow efficiency based on the radiographer's and patient's needs.

AI-based imaging
Xavion's AI software intelligently adjusts imaging parameters, reducing the likelihood of retakes and ensuring optimum image quality.”

AI-supported noise suppression, combined with simultaneous edge and contrast enhancement, creates an imaging experience like never seen before in the RF market. The deep learning post-processing software results in exceptional clarity in both soft and dense tissue, offering healthcare professionals an invaluable tool for accurate diagnosis. Also, this innovative technology adapts dynamically to various conditions, ensuring the radiologist receives the most relevant information for diagnosis.

Not just a diagnostic tool
The Xavion offers the flexibility to perform both standard static radiography exams and dynamic exams with its full digital solution. This versatility makes it a comprehensive imaging system suitable for a wide range of diagnostic procedures.

“Patients benefit from a more comfortable environment during procedures, ultimately leading to improved examination outcomes,” added Guillaume.