Philips Azurion clinical user study evaluates new workflow approach¹

Image-guided therapy, specifically the Philips Azurion Image Guided Therapy System, aims to improve the efficiency and quality of interventional procedures.

In a study conducted with clinical users, the Azurion system's new workflow approach was evaluated for its flexibility and user satisfaction. The study was conducted in a simulated lab environment, and was designed and supervised by Use-Lab GmbH, an independent and objective usability engineering consultancy and user interface design company. Use-Lab also analyzed the study results and documented the conclusions. 
 
The study results showed that Azurion has the potential to reduce procedure time, minimize preparation errors, and make more efficient use of time spent in the lab. 
 
One of the main features of the Azurion system is the use of ProcedureCards, which standardize system set-up and streamline operation. These cards offer one-click presets for examination settings, including X-ray protocols and screen layouts.
 
The system automatically selects the appropriate ProcedureCard based on the scheduled procedure code, reducing the potential for errors and ensuring consistency. 
 
The flexibility of the Azurion concept allows for customized work spots and seamless access to multiple imaging modalities and applications. This eliminates the need for healthcare professionals to walk between the examination room and the control room, reducing miscommunication and improving workflow efficiency. The system also enables instant parallel working, allowing team members to work on different activities simultaneously. By using Procedure Cards and providing intuitive user interaction, Azurion promotes standardization and improves the quality of services.

Study environment (examination room) in Europe

Study environment (examination room) in the USA

To gather input from a broad population of participants, the study involved 61 participants from Europe and USA. Participants were spread evenly over technologists and physicians. A variety of functions were represented in the study. These included: interventional radiologists, interventional cardiologists, pediatric interventional radiologists, medical department managers, hybrid OR managers, cath lab managers, cath lab technologists and vascular technologists. 
 
The system received positive feedback from users. Regarding workflow consistency, 100% believed that the possibility to access and control more applications at tableside would reduce the need to walk between exam and control room. 100% of users also believed that the possibility to display Checklists and Protocols on Azurion would help minimize preparation errors. 
 
When asked about workflow efficiency, 93% believed that it can help them make more efficient use of their time in the lab. 91% also believed that Azurion would help them reduce procedure time.

And when it came to intuitive system interaction, 96% of users were satisfied with how easy the system was to use. In fact, the System Usability Scale (SUS) score of 87 further validates the system's usability and learnability.

In conclusion, the clinical user study found that Philips Azurion Image Guided Therapy System offers a new workflow approach that addresses the challenges faced by healthcare systems in interventional therapy procedures. With its user-friendly interface, ProcedureCards, and flexible work spots, Azurion improves workflow consistency, efficiency, and user satisfaction. By integrating these features, healthcare professionals can enhance the quality of care while reducing procedure time and minimizing errors.