Originally Published EMDM September 2005
Industry News
Data Matrix Decoder Targets Surgical Instruments |
| An automatic identification device that reads data matrix codes can perform a full inven-tory of items in a surgical kit, for example, and correlate the data with patient use. |
The need for decoders to identify and track surgical tools and instruments has increased in recent years. As more hospitals and clinics outsource sterilization, companies that provide this service must accurately track the items they receive and ensure appropriate return.
The Value Engineering Alliance (Cambridge, MA, USA) has produced an automatic identification device, the PIATI_STI, to read ECC200 data matrix codes laser marked on medical and dental instruments. The process is conducted in accordance with Health Industry Business Communication Council (HIBCC) specifications.
The PIATI_STI can record all the items in a surgical kit, prior to and after an operation, to ensure complete inventory. The decoder checks the records of patients who may have experienced complications following surgery to determine which instruments were used and to confirm that they were properly sterilized.
Housed in an anodized aluminium enclosure that measures 130 ¥ 84 ¥ 132 mm, the PIATI_STI relies on custom built-in LED illumination for data generation. The data are analyzed by an embedded digital signal processor, producing accurate and repeatable results. A conventional 15-pin connector allows images, system status, and decoding results to be displayed on a standard analogue VGA monitor. The decoding results are transmitted directly to a PC or electronic data processing system via an RS-232 serial communications interface.
The PIATI_STI is one of several industry-specific products in the PIATI suite of data matrix–decoding software and systems. The product suite includes fully integrated, general-purpose products and robustly designed data matrix–decoding software that is supplied in a library function format.
For more information, contact Value Engineering Alliance, 478 Putnam Ave., Ste. 2, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA; phone: +1 617 4921252; fax: +1 617 4921252; e-mail: piatiinfo@aol.com; Internet: www.the-v-e-a.com.
Copyright ©2005 European Medical Device Manufacturer
