Philips Healthcare enjoyed a steady stream of curious cardiologists and cardiology personnel to its Hybrid OR Suite at the American College of Cardiology (ACC) meeting in Atlanta.

Philips and the ACC jointly showcased the Hybrid OR Suite, a solution that combines in one room the equipment needed to perform both open and endovascular cardiac procedures.

“A complex combination of equipment is required in a hybrid OR—from high-quality, high-resolution imaging with advanced 3D software, to surgical tables, lighting, and more,” said Arindam Mukherjee, senior director of global marketing and strategy, cardiology.

Mukherjee said that the key to the success of a hybrid OR is its cross-purpose functionality. “All elements for both image-guided and conventional procedures must be well integrated and simple to access.”

A hybrid OR combines the sterility and instruments of a traditional operating room with the x-ray and ultrasound imaging systems and radiation shields of a cath lab. The use of live 3D transesophogeal ultrasound, already in use in cath labs, also will be of use in the hybrid lab as percutaneous valve repair and replacement become routine in the U.S.

“Hybrid ORs provide flexibility to handle a wide variety of treatments and procedures, but also help clinicians from a variety of specialties to collaborate,” said Mukherjee.

Philips offers a 3D architectural planning tool to provide prospective customers with a visual rendering of possible hybrid room configurations.