Electrophysiology is one of the fastest growing market segments in cardiology. However, many EP departments are having difficulty dealing with the increasing demand for these procedures and the need to perform more complex patient treatments. EP procedures are highly specialized and require dedicated equipment and facilities, yet they are often performed in catheterization (cath) labs that are not specifically designed for this purpose. EP labs are frequently cluttered, temporary and inefficient. Working with many different systems in different places, EP professionals are struggling to find an efficient process. These issues make it a challenge to provide the best possible care to patients.

With this in mind, Philips set about developing an integrated solution which would provide EP specialists with a comfortable and efficient working environment to raise the level of heart rhythm care-EP cockpit. This new solution provides a customizable lab setup including video switching, single keyboard and mouse control concept, and moveable ceiling suspended equipment rack holding EP lab equipment.

Additionally, EP cockpit is equipped with an embedded data-management solution that can archive and retrieve patient data from various sources enabling physician access via a single workspace. EP cockpit can also be equipped with EP navigator, Philips' innovative imaging tool that will support clinicians in the treatment of complex cardiac rhythm disorders.

"By talking to our customers and observing them at work in the EP lab we realized that in many labs the working environment was far from optimal. The variety of technologies used in the EP lab can create a clutter of cables, keyboards and video screens that may take away attention from the procedure itself and from the patient," said Jan Vermeulen, global marketing manager, electrophysiology, for Philips Medical Systems. "Besides cleaning up the lab, EP cockpit also helps to manage data from the different sources in a more uniform way, thereby allowing electrophysiology professionals to work more efficiently and perform procedures with more confidence."

About Royal Philips Electronics
Royal Philips Electronics of the Netherlands (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHI) is a global leader in healthcare, lifestyle and technology, delivering products, services and solutions through the brand promise of "sense and simplicity". Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips employs approximately 124,300 employees in more than 60 countries worldwide. With sales of EUR 27 billion in 2006, the company is a market leader in medical diagnostic imaging and patient monitoring systems, energy efficient lighting solutions, personal care and home appliances, as well as consumer electronics. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.