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Thoracic imaging with computed tomography (CT) is an important tool for pulmonary disease diagnosis and management and has emerged as a useful resource during this pandemic, as demonstrated in the figure below. We are committed to serving healthcare professionals by providing additional information on the appropriate use of the Airo TruCT Mobile CT Imaging System in managing COVID-19.

Image referenced is taken from Liming Xia, PhD (Corresponding Author) et al, Correlation of Chest CT and RT-PCR Testing in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in China: A Report of 1014 Cases, Radiology, 26 February 2020 (online). Note, these images were not taken with Airo TruCT.

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Unprecedented mobility allows for flexible set-up away from the general patient population

A primary concern related to the use of CT in COVID-19 care is the infection control challenge that COVID-19 patients could present by entering CT scan suites. When CT is needed, the ACR recommends considering the use of portable radiography units in ambulatory care facilities or isolated spaces².

With its onboard motor and rechargeable batteries, Airo TruCT can travel over one mile and up a 5-degree grade while unplugged, making it possible to be easily wheeled in and out of patient care areas. Airo TruCT's footprint in transport mode ranges from 6 ½ - 7 ½' L x 2' W x 6 ½' H and weighs from 1,800 to 2,150 pounds, based on a configuration with or without an integrated table column. It is designed to fit into a standard hospital transport elevator. Once it reaches its desired location, it is powered by a standard wall outlet.

Airo TruCT's enhanced software and user interface eliminate the need for a control room by providing point-of-care diagnostic imaging.

Thanks to this flexibility, Airo TruCT can be used in several environments such as mobile or fixed Radiology, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Emergency Department (ED), Surgical/Operating Room (OR), clinic or office.

Utilizing computed tomography (CT) to manage COVID-19

At this time, the ACR, CDC, and other multi-national institutions do not recommend imaging as an initial screening test for COVID-19 in asymptomatic patients, where IVD testing remains the best in this scenario². However, several studies and statements have been released regarding theappropriate use of imaging in diagnosis and care3 (see additional resources below). A recent multidisciplinary panel, comprised principally of radiologists and pulmonologists from ten countries with experience managing COVID-19 patients across a range of healthcare environments, evaluated the efficacy of imaging within three scenarios representing varying risk factors community conditions, and resource constraints³.

Fourteen key questions, corresponding to eleven decision points within the three scenarios and three additional clinical situations, were rated by the panel. The ratings were based upon the anticipated value that thoracic imaging was expected to provide. The results were aggregated and resulted in five main recommendations and three additional recommendations, which are intended to guide medical practitioners in the use of CXR and CT in COVID-19 management³. A summary has been published in a statement by this panel to aid in COVID-19 care.

Summary of recommendations for imaging³
Main recommendations

Additional recommendations

Managing the patient population

Airo TruCT is designed to use appropriate x-ray techniques across supported age ranges, as defined in the table below and in the Airo TruCT Protocol Guide4. The condition and health of a given patient is left up to the discretion of the physician. For patients immobilized with such devices as stirrups, arm boards, etc. when using CT scanning with Airo TruCT, there are no special conditions of use or dedicated protocols outside of ensuring that table accessories are outside the field of view.

Standard patient³
Pediatric

Adult

Additional resources

World Health Organization (WHO) technical guidance

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance

American College of Radiology (ACR) COVID-19 Clinical Resources for Radiologists

References:

1 Image referenced is taken from Liming Xia, PhD (Corresponding Author) et al, Correlation of Chest CT and RT-PCR Testing in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in China: A Report of 1014 Cases, Radiology, 26 February 2020 (online)

2 ACR Recommendations for the use of Chest Radiography and Computed Tomography (CT) for Suspected COVID-19 Infection, Updated 22 March 2020, https://www.acr.org/Advocacy-and-Economics/ACR-Position-Statements/Recommendations-for-Chest-Radiography-and-CT-for-Suspected-COVID19-Infection

3 Rubin, Geoffrey D. et al, The Role of Chest Imaging in Patient Management during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Multinational Consensus Statement from the Fleischner Society, 7 April 2020, https://doi.org/10.1148/radiol.2020201365

4 Airo TruCT Protocol Guide MI-42-0005 Rev 9

Refer to the Instructions for Use for additional information on the use and operation of Airo TruCT.

The surrounding environment where the Airo will be used requires proper shielding to protect against scatter radiation. Guidance for radiation shielding is provided in the Mobius Airo Pre-installation Guide. Assessment from locally approved experts on radiation control may also be required.

This equipment is certified to be in compliance with the applicable standards of CFR, Title 21, Subchapter J as of the date of manufacture. This equipment complies with 21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11, except for deviations pursuant to laser notice No. 50, dated June 24, 2007 (Class 2 Laser Product, IEC 60825-1:2007).

Stryker Corporation or its divisions or other corporate affiliated entities own, use or have applied for the following trademarks or service marks: Airo, Stryker, TruCT. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners or holders.

Healthcare professional disclaimer

Copyright © 2020 Stryker

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