New contrast injection system inks FDA clearance

Bayer’s latest computed tomography injection system was just given a thumbs up by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the health tech giant announced Thursday. 

The MEDRAD Centargo CT Injection System allows for multi-patient use, reduced setup times and streamlined workflows due to its automated capabilities. Bayer says the contrast injection system can be set up in as little as two minutes and needs just 20 seconds to prime in between patients. 

The piston-based system enabled techs to inject both contrast and saline simultaneously when protocols require. It also comes equipped with an integrated bar code reader and Automated Documentation Software that simplifies the tracking and documentation of contrast media use and dose for each patient. As an added safety feature, the system contains two valves in the patient line that minimize the risk of cross contamination and air bubbles. 

“We know radiologists today are facing a continuously increasing workload, and the automation, integration and mobility of the MEDRAD Centargo CT Injection System helps radiology staff do more with less, allowing them more time to focus on their patients,” Sven Schmidt, Head of Region Americas Radiology at Bayer, said in a release on the approval. 

The contrast injection system is already in use at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center in Toronto, Canada. Mike Minoo, who manages CT and Interventional Radiology at Sunnybrook, said that the system has had a positive impact on the organization’s “technologists’ ability to do their work quickly and with less worry.” 

“For example, because I am spending less time preparing the injector and its components, I have more time to spend with the patient, increasing their comfort level and understanding of the procedure,” Minno said. “The quality of this interaction provides a better overall experience for both myself as a clinician and the patient.” 

Learn more about the injection system here.