New imaging management solution eyes orthopedics

CHICAGO – A new comprehensive imaging solution is now available for orthopedics. Merge Healthcare officials announced Thursday the release of Merge OrthoPACS, an imaging management and digital templating solution that allows orthopedic surgeons and specialists to securely access images taken from virtually any location. 

Officials say the technology provides real-time study list updates, which ultimately delivers faster results to physicians. Physicians can also access archived images from their iPhones, iPads and other mobile devices with no software download required. 

"Merge's OrthoPACS solution successfully demonstrates our large investment and commitment to the orthopedic market," said Jeff Surges, CEO of Merge Healthcare. "We've combined new and innovative functionality with proven underlying technology to deliver a truly unified orthopedic-specific PACS solution. Additionally, we're excited to now offer OrthoPACS in a subscription model that will address clients' requirements for pricing that more closely aligns with their long-term operating plans."

"We've already begun upgrading our practice to Merge OrthoPACS," said Bradley Dick, chief information officer at Resurgens Orthopaedics, Georgia's largest orthopedic practice. "With Merge OrthoPACS, we'll migrate from a legacy product to true DICOM archive technology which will make it easier to share and manage images across our 21 offices in metro Atlanta."

Merge officials say orthopedic surgeons will find that the new solution integrates into and enhances their current workflow. For example:

Orthopedic-specific workflows are built into Merge OrthoPACS, from clinic use to the operating room.The Merge OrthoPACS zero-footprint client viewer can be the sole viewer for an orthopedic practice, meaning that reading images will be no different whether a surgeon reads from their workstation or any mobile device. The Merge OrthoPACS viewer also provides access to pre-surgical templating, including advanced measurements and automated hip templating.