New modular ICS Impulse solution gives physical therapists and balance professionals the ability to more effectively diagnose and treat common vestibular disorders.
Schaumburg, IL | January 2016 – GN Otometrics, the leading manufacturer of hearing and balance device diagnostics, announced today FDA clearance of the Positional and Oculomotor test batteries for the ICS Impulse®. These two newly released modules, which are available in the OTOsuite® Vestibular (OTOsuiteV) software platform, allow balance professionals to deliver dynamic positional tests as well as diagnose and treat Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV) – the most prevalent vestibular disorder. The new Oculomotor test battery helps determine if the disorder is central, peripheral, or both. The versatility of the ICS Impulse hardware, combined with the scalability of OTOsuiteV software enables balance professionals to easily create a customized solution that works best for their practice.
“The Vestibular Disorders Association estimates that it can take between three to five years for a person with vestibular symptoms to receive a diagnosis“, says Wendy Crumley-Welsh, audiologist and product manager at Otometrics. “What’s more, a person with a vestibular disorder will see, on average, between four to five doctors or specialists before receiving a proper diagnosis. With ICS Impulse, physicians have more affordable and practical options to help their patients who struggle with balance problems. This new solution will empower balance care professionals to reduce diagnosis and treatment times by making quality vestibular care accessible to more people who need it. When it comes to improving vestibular patient care, the modular approach to vestibular assessment is a game changer.”
The ICS Impulse with video head impulse testing (vHIT) is the result of more than 20 years of research conducted in conjunction with Michael Halmagyi, Ph.D., and Ian Curthoys, Ph.D. First introduced to the U.S. in 2013, ICS Impulse is the only vHIT product that meets standards established by Halmagyi and Curthoys, who are credited with having first described the head impulse test in 1988.
The new release builds on the innovative ICS Impulse, the first vHIT device that enables clinicians to assess all six semicircular canals accurately – in less than 10 minutes. The base version of the ICS Impulse solution includes monocular Video Frenzel lens hardware, with vision and vision denied tests, a room camera and computer to run OTOsuiteV software. Additional modules can be added to at any time – these include: vHIT, Positional and Oculomotor test batteries – all in one portable, easy to use solution. Balance professionals can start with only the modules that meet their immediate needs, and add test batteries to the Impulse solution as their clinical practice guidelines expand.
Fast, simple and precise, ICS Impulse is recommended as the first step in vestibular analysis, providing significant time savings and improved workflow. It is exclusively available for purchase through Audiology Systems in the United States. To learn about the new, modular system, visit www.audiologysystems.com/impulse.
About Audiology Systems
Audiology Systems is the official U.S. distributor of Otometrics products: MADSEN, AURICAL, ICS and GENIE sound rooms. Audiology Systems was founded with a clear vision: to elevate customer care through increased professionalism, consultative dialogue and accessibility to customers. Visit www.audiologysystems.com or the Otometrics / Audiology Systems Expo Page on AudiologyOnline for more information.
About GN Otometrics North America
GN Otometrics is the world's leading manufacturer of hearing and balance solutions. MADSEN, ICS, AURICAL and GENIE brands offer solutions ranging from infant-screening applications and hearing diagnostics to balance testing, hearing-instrument fitting and sound room solutions. The OTOsuite software platform helps hearing healthcare providers optimize workflow by providing a single-user interface for multiple test modalities. The Otometrics product brands are exclusively distributed through Audiology Systems Inc. and dedicated partner distributors in the United States. Visit www.otometrics.com for more information.
