Integrated Solution Detects Retained Surgical Sponges

A next-generation radio frequency (RF) detection system incorporates essential compliance support functions and improved scanning coverage for multiple surgical specialties.

The RF Assure Detection System X is based on a new handheld, stationary scanning device, the ArQ•Sphere bi-nodal scanner, which leverages dual three-dimensional (3-D) scan fields to deliver motion-free scanning with overlapping scan fields, creating an optimal surgical sponge detection zone for positioning challenges specific to extremity, head, neck, spine, and other specialty procedures. The system uses a reliable, low-energy RF signal specifically designed for the detection of misplaced surgical sponges through blood, dense tissue, and bone.


The system is controlled by a compliance-driven interface designed to provide operating room (OR) staff “real-time” feedback, improving accessibility and data visibility during the procedures, and automatically stores case and scan records for convenient review and compliance. Additional patient-centric benefits realized by the use of adjunct detection technology include reduction in incremental time under anesthesia, and the use of X-rays associated with rectifying sponge miscounts.

Complementary components are available for full OR coverage, which include the ConformPlus II Antenna Array Body Scanner, a one-touch scanning technology that detects retained sponges in the torso; and the Blair-Port Wand X, a handheld, motion-based scanning device for the detection of missing sponges in the surrounding OR environment. The RF Assure Detection System X is a product of RF Surgical Systems (Carlsbad, CA, USA).

“The premium digital patient safety platform of the RF Assure Detection System X represents our next generation in market-leading detection technology and innovation from RF Surgical,” said John Buhler, CEO of RF Surgical. “The integration of a workflow-complementary interface with surgical specialty scanning capabilities significantly advances our efforts to eliminate the risks associated with retained surgical sponges for improved OR patient safety.”

“The value of adjunct detection technology for the prevention of retained surgical sponges in assuring OR staff confidence and patient safety cannot be overstated,” said Stella Nelson, RN, co-author of the seminal clinical study of the efficacy of the system. “The thoughtful design and technological improvements in the new RF Assure Detection System X reflect the compliance support needs of OR staff, resulting in important work flow efficiencies.”

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