Sphere Medical launches new Proxima blood gas analyser

Sphere Medical has announced the launch of Proxima, its new CE Mark-approved in-line patient-dedicated arterial blood gas analyser, at an industry event in Harrogate.

The company attended the Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland (AAGBI) annual congress to present the benefits of the new device, which is capable of delivering rapid and frequent results at a patient's bedside.

It includes a dedicated bedside monitor and the Proxima Sensor, which is integrated into a patient's arterial line to enable blood to be measured directly at the point of care. Results are rapidly displayed on the monitor and can be electronically transferred for permanent record.

This fast feedback and response is expected to have a positive impact on efficiently stabilising patients or weaning them from mechanical ventilation.

Dr Wolfgang Rencken, chief executive officer of Sphere Medical, said: "Frequent measurement of arterial blood samples is a key component in the effective management of patients in the critical care environment, particularly those that are unstable."

Sphere Medical specialises in the development of innovative medical monitoring and diagnostic tools. It has the backing of Johnson and Johnson, which has made a strategic investment in the firm.