An electrocardiogram (ECG) recorder featuring University of Glasgow software has been awarded the prestigious US based Healthcare Independent Distributors Association (HIDA) Product of the Year Award. The awards ceremony took place recently at an industry conference in Chicago.

The award was presented to Quinton Cardiology Systems, a US based company that develops, manufactures, markets and services a variety of advanced cardiology products used in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of patients with cardiovascular disease. Quinton received the HIDA award for its Burdick-branded Atria 3000 ECG recorder. In partnership with the University, Quinton developed the software for the Atria 3000, manufactured in their Deerfield Wisconsin facility. Quinton, and its predecessors, have enjoyed a successful working relationship with the University for over 15 years.

The Atria 3000 combines cutting edge capabilities, such as wireless communications, within a traditional ECG recorder and features the University of Glasgow ECG Interpretation Algorithm.

While other products use only age and gender to a limited extent, the University of Glasgow ECG Interpretation Algorithm, a set of mathematical equations built into a software program initially developed in the 1970s, uses five clinically significant variables - gender, age, race, medication and clinical history - in addition to ECG measurements when making an interpretation of a patient's ECG. This is critical as ECG patterns for patients from different ethnic backgrounds and with differing medical conditions can vary greatly.

David Hadley, Vice President of Research & Development at Quinton Cardiology stated, 'The University of Glasgow ECG Interpretation Algorithm provides a valuable second opinion to many physicians and we are pleased to partner with University of Glasgow in its development.'

Developed by Professor Peter Macfarlane, a pioneer in computerized electrocardiography, the University of Glasgow ECG Interpretation Algorithm is now used globally and has been continuously improved since its initial development, allowing it to stay current with the latest advancements in electrocardiographic research.

Peter Macfarlane, Professor of Electrocardiology within the Medical Faculty at the University of Glasgow said, 'The Faculty of Medicine in Glasgow is at the forefront of new technology and we are continually working with our partners to improve healthcare throughout the world.'

Brian McGeough, Business Development Manager, Research & Enterprise at the University of Glasgow said, 'This is excellent news for the University. We are delighted that our technology is part of an award winning global product.'

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

For more details call the University of Glasgow Press Office on 0141 330-3535.

Quinton develops, manufactures, markets, and services a family of advanced cardiology products used in the diagnosis, monitoring and management of patients with cardiovascular disease. Quinton markets its products under the Quinton and Burdick brand names. Quinton shares are quoted on the NASDAQ National Market under the trading symbol ?QUIN.? For more information, visit the Quinton web site at www.quinton.com.

The Health Industry Distributors Association (HIDA) is the international trade association representing medical products distributors. Since 1902, HIDA has provided leadership in the healthcare distribution industry.

First published: 30 November 2004