STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Dec. 11, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Through United Nation's oil-for-food program, which also has been part of the reconstruction of Iraq, Elekta has been chosen to deliver complete systems for minimal-invasive stereotactic and functional neurosurgery to be installed at hospitals in various parts of Iraq. The delivery, carried out in October and with a value of approx. EUR 4.3 M, also includes training outside Iraq of both neurosurgeons and service engineers.
The systems supplied by Elekta will be used for routine as well as advanced, minimal-invasive brain surgery. Each system includes the Leksell Stereotactic System(R), a three-dimensional localizing and reference system that provides extremely high precision in the diagnosing and treatment of such ailments as deep seated brain tumors and functional disorders. Also included in the system is Leksell SurgiPlan(R), an advanced computer-based planning software which makes it possible for surgeons to plan and simulate treatment in advance. Instruments for biopsies and haematoma evacuation are included as well as generators for stimulation and lesioning in the brain for the treatment of functional and other disorders in the brain.
"Elekta has an ongoing long term commitment to contribute to the development of health care in the Middle East and to further spread the gentler and less invasive treatment methods that is made possible by the company's products", says Lena Hoglund, Elekta's Business Manager Leksell Stereotactic Neurosurgery Europe and Middle East. "The Iraqi healthcare system is now in a phase of rapid reconstruction. With Elekta's equipment, many more Iraqi patients can receive basic as well as advanced minimally invasive brain surgery that is significantly less risky than the alternative open brain surgery. We are also looking forward to continue to contribute to the advancement of the healthcare system in Iraq."
Leksell Stereotactic System(R), which is also a key component in the Leksell Gamma Knife(R), is the world leading equipment for minimal invasive brain surgery and is used today in more than 1,000 hospitals around the world.
About Elekta:
Elekta is a world-leading supplier of advanced and innovative radiation oncology and neurosurgery solutions and services for precise treatment of cancer and brain disorders. Elekta's solutions are clinically effective, cost efficient and gentle to the patient.
For additional information about Elekta, please visit www.elekta.com
This information was brought to you by Waymaker http://www.waymaker.net
The following files are available for download:
http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2003/12/11/20031211BIT00340/wkr0001.doc
http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2003/12/11/20031211BIT00340/wkr0002.pdf