The Windy City may be cold, but McCormick Place will be filled with what’s hot in imaging when the 92nd Annual Meeting and Exhibition of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA of Oak Brook, Ill) takes hold November 26?30. Aside from multiple mini-reunions with friends and colleagues, one of the best RSNA-related perks is seeing the best and brightest—and the future—of technology, solutions, and services.

And attendees aren’t the only ones looking forward to checking out “what’s next.” Many of the manufacturers exhibiting at the event are just as eager to see what’s on display.

“We always look forward to exploring the modality developments at RSNA,” says Lynda Domogalla, marketing manager of Barco Medical Imaging Systems (Portland, Ore). “These give us insight into the future and provide us with a direction for the product advances we plan to bring to the market.”

In addition to looking at the horizon, exhibitors also scout the hall for partners who could make an immediate impact.

“We will be looking at all the different applications of x-ray technology to see how our products—digital x-ray image detectors and x-ray tubes—can best be integrated into customers’ systems,” says Kenneth Brooks, PhD, vice president of marketing and sales at the Varian X-ray Products Division (Salt Lake City).

MEDRAD Inc (Indianola, Pa) has a similar goal. “I think the most interesting and potentially market-changing technology from our standpoint is interfacing the CT injector with the CT scanner,” says Tony Maiore, marketing manager of CT injectors at MEDRAD. “I’m expecting to see some very interesting concepts as this technology starts to show its potential for data management and information sharing with equipment in the CT suite.”

From electronic medical records (EMRs) to Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise (IHE), many eyes also will be on current trends that impact every area of the health care industry.

“I’m expecting new steps in some trends that are becoming more important. Medical facilities are working toward the merge of all kinds of patient data into one EMR. How will this information find its way throughout the whole hospital?” asks Piet Candeel, senior vice president of Barco (Kortijk, Belgium). “Another confirmation we will probably find is the trend toward advanced visualization. How can we handle all the information that becomes available via the more and more efficient and powerful modalities?”

According to David Chambers, vice president of sales and marketing for Agfa HealthCare Americas (Greenville, SC), “In particular, I am eager to see how the IHE initiative has been progressing. To improve the way health care data is shared electronically, making hospitals and caregivers more efficient, is key to Agfa’s mission.”

New Offerings: Better Than Pumpkin Pie

An annual tradition for many imaging professionals, the post-holiday gathering in Chicago offers something the family festivities don’t: new stuff. In addition to the standards—300-plus refresher courses, 200 scientific sessions, 719 exhibitors—the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA of Oak Brook, Ill) is serving up several supplementary subspecialty series and a case-based course in MR.

The subspecialty courses combine education and research to delve into a variety of topics, including interventional oncology, pediatric radiology, and emergency radiology.

Looking for immersion? Pick one of the daylong, case-based sessions tackling neuroradiology, pediatric radiology, interventional radiology, or radiation oncology. A “Review of MR” course also is available. Attendees will have access to the audience-response system, which allows for self-assessment.

Another new all-day endeavor is the radiologist assistants (RAs) program kicking off on Sunday, November 26. Designed to meet the educational needs of the professional RA as defined by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT of St Paul, Minn), the curriculum is slated to cover abdominal imaging, pediatric imaging, practice standards and ethical issues, and career advancement through clinical portfolio development over a span of 21.5 days.

Speak Easy

Distinguished speakers are scheduled throughout the week. Highlights include:

  • Monday, November 27: The Eugene P. Pendergrass New Horizons Lecture, “Image-Guided Cancer Treatment: The Science and Vision of an Emerging Field,” delivered by J. William Charboneau, MD;
  • Tuesday, November 28: The Annual Oration in Diagnostic Radiology featuring the lecture “Cardiac Imaging—A Second Chance” delivered by Kerry M. Link, MD; and
  • Wednesday, November 29: The Annual Oration in Radiation Oncology, “Looking Beyond Anatomic-Based Treatment in Radiation Oncology,” delivered by Theodore S. Lawrence, MD.

Getting Stronger

An anticipated 60,000 individuals are poised to swarm the 510,220 square feet of the McCormick Center, and the revamped, user-friendly floor plan is sure to make it easier for everyone to get where they want to go. To help attendees find refresher courses, scientific sessions, and plenary sessions that include information on quality improvement, quality assessment, and patient safety, the online program—as well as the printed meeting program—tags them with a “QA” content code. This feature also is noted in the appropriate subspecialty content brochure, which will be available on-site.

This year’s meeting sees the increase of the maximum number of American Medical Association Physician’s Recognition Award (AMA PRA) Category 1 Credits available at 85. To further help attendees maintain certification requirements, the RSNA is offering 19 self-assessment modules in a variety of subspecialty and general content areas.

Making a command performance are the Digital Mammography Training and Self-Assessment Workshops, which debuted last year and were a crowd favorite. Offered over 4 days and starting on Sunday, November 26, the 12 data sets incorporate interactive training sessions to challenge skills and improve performance in mammography screening.

For more information about the 92nd Annual Meeting and Exposition, visit rsna2006.rsna.org.

—D. Hinesly


Standing Tall

The only thing that eclipses vendors’ excitement for the wares of others is their pride in displaying the results from another year of research and development at their respective companies. Each new booth is all but guaranteed to boast solutions and products that are new or improved—or both.

Focus appears to be split relatively evenly between technological enhancements and software-based developments; for many manufacturers, it’s both.

“Our product innovations may manifest themselves in either technology or software,” explains Clay Larsen, vice president of marketing and network business development of FUJIFILM Medical Systems USA (Stamford, Conn). “As both a modality vendor and a software services provider, we innovate along both ends of the spectrum.”

According to John Allen, assistant director of Canon Medical Systems (Irvine, Calif), “Canon has made both technology and software advancements. With the introduction of the CXDI-40EC and CXDI-50C, Canon addresses the needs of DR systems that deliver high-quality images with minimal x-ray exposure to patients, making it ideal for pediatric and orthopedic use, among other applications. Canon’s latest software complies with HIPAA and IHE standards for interoperability to help ensure easy, effective integration with an organization’s network.”

Hitachi America Medical Systems (Twinsburg, Ohio) also has made improvements in both categories. “The addition of the Echelon [1.5T MRI] to our lineup is certainly a technology advance. Echelon’s conventional horizontal field technology is complemented by cutting-edge subsystems, and ? a very powerful scan/reconstruct/processing engine we call Vertex,” says Shawn Etheridge, director of MR marketing for Hitachi Medical. “Software features that take advantage of this architecture include many pulse sequences and capabilities migrated from our open MR products, plus new features like time-resolved MRA [MR angiography] and RADAR, our radial imaging capability.”

Also making improvements in both categories is TeraRecon Inc (San Mateo, Calif), which introduces the VolumePro 2000 board featuring a new processor. “The Falcon processor technology represents a significant technical advance for volume visualization applications where visualizing and analyzing extremely large 3D/4D volume data is an essential requirement,” says Steve Sandy, VP of marketing at TeraRecon. “VolumePro 2000 is designed and optimized for real-time visualization of extremely large volumetric data sets in critical applications, such as advanced medical diagnosis and procedure planning.”

Functionality from technology, including the emergency management planning opportunities offered from DMS Health Group (Fargo, ND), also will have its day at RSNA. “One phone call will activate a personal emergency plan that has been formulated specifically for the health care facility’s imaging department,” explains DMS CEO Paul Wilson.

The Only Constant Is Change

Leave well enough alone? Never! Manufacturers are a tough lot to please, and even with market-leading products, they continue to tinker and sweat to advance their offerings.

“We have significantly enhanced our RMS product and renamed it RISynergy. The product now optimizes the workflow within a radiology department that also uses a PACS and/or voice-recognition system,” says Randall Swearingen, president and CEO of Swearingen Software Inc (Houston). “RISynergy also has been greatly enhanced to make it more applicable to clinics and imaging centers with the addition of an integrated billing module, precertification capabilities, and numerous marketing reports. And it is in the initial stages of becoming Web-enabled.”

Growing capabilities of services or products is another area of robust growth. “We’ve expanded our services in two key areas. First is IT solutions, focusing on customer compliance, standardization of reports, and nuclear medicine center management,” explains Lynn Bender, director of PET marketing, nuclear pharmacy services, at Cardinal Health (Dublin, Ohio). “[The second area is] our PET Foundations program, focusing on the clinical benefits of PET in cardiology and providing tools to market that service to help grow patient volumes for our PET customers.”

Medical Muse

It’s like the iPod: creativity and function blended together to make everyone else think, “Why didn’t I come up with that?” Yes, inspiration comes in all forms—and for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), it drives the future of the industry.

Some sources are sought for specific goals. “The evolution of our products has stayed true to our core—complexity made simple through elegant workflow and enhancing communication,” says Susan A. Wood, PhD, executive vice president of marketing and product development at Vital Images (Minnetonka, Minn). “Our biggest drive to the RSNA is developing an innovative solution for Web-deployable, customized clinical solutions for enterprise-wide advanced visualization and analysis.”

RSNA 2006:
Inside the Guide

   A Preview of Products:

   Also:

Others gain impetus from a wider view. “Our [motivation] is to enhance the workflow, productivity, and reporting capabilities of radiology departments,” Swearingen says. “We are always on the lookout for any new technology that will facilitate us in that effort.”

Face Time

Despite million-dollar products, high-level meetings, and well-funded marketing budgets, what really determines the bottom line for most vendors is simple: Are customers happy?

“The RSNA is always an exciting meeting to attend, because it gives us an opportunity to discuss new customer requirements with the show’s attendees and explore new applications with them,” says Canon Medical’s Allen.

Allen is not alone in that sentiment. “The customer’s needs are our primary drive,” says Joseph Habovick, product manager of infusion systems for MEDRAD. “We frequently ask the medical community for problems and challenges incurred that may prevent providing their customer—the patient—with high-quality care. This one method allows us to problem-solve with creative and innovative design.”

One guarantee of this and every RSNA is that it provides the opportunity for businesses and their markets to come together, working to improve the industry. To help you prepare for an event that is always over too fast, we’ve compiled the following preview of products from more than 130 companies that will be exhibiting at RSNA. Medical Imaging will be there, too—stop by South Hall Booth 3115 to say hello.

Breast Imaging

Clockwise from top left are breast imaging offerings to be showcased: the SoftScan from ART Advanced Research Technologies, the 1.5T Dedicated Breast MRI from Aurora Imaging, the CT Laser Mammography system from Imaging Diagnostic Systems, and A-Spots markers from Beekley Corp.

ART Advanced Research Technologies Inc (Montreal). ART’s SoftScan is an optical medical-imaging device that provides an alternative to x-ray mammography. Women are examined without any breast compression or exposure to ionizing radiation. Also from ART is the eXplore Optix, an optical molecular imaging device designed for monitoring physiological changes in living systems at the preclinical study phases of new drugs. The system noninvasively interrogates biological tissues to accurately reveal fluorescent biodistribution and concentration in vivo.

Aurora Imaging Technology Inc (North Andover, Mass). The company will introduce the SpiralRodeo technology for use with the Aurora 1.5T Dedicated Breast MRI System. The new feature means improved resolution with a significant decrease in scan time for better dynamics. Acquisition efficiency is also superior with the SpiralRodeo—three times greater than traditional 3D fourier transformation reconstruction, according to the company.

Beekley Corp (Bristol, Conn). “A” marks the spot thanks to Beekley’s new A-Spots Radiopaque Palpable Mass Markers. Burnout resistant and easy to see on tangential views, the distinct triangular shape of the A-Spot precisely and unmistakably documents the location of a palpable abnormality directly on the image. The ultrafine .25-mm-diameter radiopaque material minimizes obscuring of underlying tissue detail, but still images brightly.

Imaging Diagnostic Systems Inc (IDSI of Plantation, Fla). The CT Laser Mammography (CTLM) system will be featured at RSNA, along with clinical results from IDSI’s Luminary Partner sites. The CTLM system combines the technologies of optical molecular imaging and CT and is intended for use as an adjunct to mammography. Requiring neither compression nor injection, the procedure images angiogenesis, helping clinicians to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions and possibly reduce the number of negative biopsies.

Breast imaging products include Sentinelle Medical?s Vanguard breast MRI table (left) and Varian/Interay?s GE Senographe replacement tubes (right).

Sectra (Link?ping, Sweden). Using photon-counting technology, Sectra’s MicroDose Mammography promises fundamentally new digital detector technology to significantly reduce the patient’s radiation dose without compromising image quality. The company’s Sectra Breast Imaging PACS incorporates workflow optimization with blind double reading and CAD capabilities. Both products are components in Sectra’s total mammography solution, which—in addition to the MicroDose technology and dedicated PACS—includes a mammography stand and the capacity to integrate with existing information systems.

Sentinelle Medical (Toronto). The Vanguard breast MRI integrated table features improvements in coil technology, needle guidance and access, and ergonomics that benefit both patient and clinician. An open architecture design provides complete medial and lateral access to the breast, and additional access in the anterior direction enables breast positioning similar to stereotactic mammography. The Vanguard system currently is compatible with GE Healthcare’s 4- and 8-channel MRI.

Varian Medical Systems/Interay (North Charleston, SC). Two new GE Healthcare (Waukesha, Wis) mammography-replacement products are available from Varian/Interay. Featuring a Rhodium/Moly track for emission performance, the M152 is a direct replacement for the DMR Senographe and is designed to calibrate flawlessly in the DMR systems. The new M153 is designed to replace the GE D4162M in both the Senographe 700T and 800T systems.

Cardiology/Angiography

AADCO Medical Inc (Randolph, Vt). Working to minimize radiation overexposure from the use of x-ray fluoroscopy during diagnostic and interventional procedures, AADCO has developed a sterilized disposable surgical drape. Called the X-Drape, it is made from AADCO’s proprietary nonleaded composite radiation-absorbing material, X-Ban. The X-Drape is placed within the sterile field over the patient’s body and absorbs the radiation scattered from the patient, reducing the dose by as much as 98%.

Cardiac imaging products include MIMvista?s CTCA software (bottom), Philips Medical?s Allura Xper FD20 (top left), and Shelley Medical?s vascular models (top right).

MIMvista Corp (Cleveland). New features of the MIMcardiac will be demonstrated at RSNA, including CT coronary angiography (CTCA) and SPECT/PET perfusion/metabolism registration, which allows for the localization between 3D and cross-sectional images. MIMvista also has added automatic extraction and 3D/2D visualization of CTCA image volumes to its MIMcardiac display and analysis software.

Philips Medical Systems (Andover, Mass). Adding to its line of cardiovascular x-ray solutions, Philips Medical will introduce the Allura Xper FD20, which can capture twice the amount of clinical information at a resolution four times greater than that of conventional angiography systems. Boasting a 2k imaging flat detector system with pivoting functionality, the FD20 is designed for a complete range of vascular procedures, both diagnostic and interventional.

Shelley Medical Imaging Technologies (Toronto). Two new anatomically correct vascular models will be on display from Shelley Medical Imaging Technologies, division of Shelley Industrial Automation Inc. First is a flexible right carotid bifurcation stenosis; second is an anterior circulation model that connects to the company’s existing line of aortic arch and abdominal models. The company also will display its accurate and realistic vascular and computer-controlled physiological flow simulation products for use with quantitative flow, angiographic and endovascular techniques, and training.

Toshiba America Medical Systems (Tustin, Calif). Toshiba Medical’s Infinix VC-i with 12 x 16 Flat-Panel Detector will be on display. This dedicated cath lab angiography system streamlines workflow through an all-digital system for clear images and efficient exams.

CR, DR, Film, R&F, and X-ray

Biospace (Paris). Crossing the Atlantic to join RSNA, Biospace brings with it EOS, its new dual x-ray 2D imaging system. Combining the advantages of 3D imaging, very low irradiation doses, and full-body scanning (including simultaneous face and profile), EOS is able to produce 3D reconstruction of the entire osteoarticular system. Employing two microstrip gas detectors placed at 90° angles, the digital dual-radiography scanning system promises doses 5 to 10 times lower than conventional x-rays.

CR, DR, film, R&F, and x-ray offerings at this year?s RSNA: Biospace?s EOS dual x-ray 2D imaging system, Canon Medical?s CXDI-40EC, Radcal?s 4085D+ Multipurpose Analyzer, and Fluke Biomedical?s CR RadChex test tool.

Canon Medical Systems (Irvine, Calif). Canon will spotlight the two new additions to its DR product line: the CXDI-50C Portable DR system and the CXDI-40EC Premium DR system. The CXDI-50C system features a 14- x 17-inch image area with LANMIT 7 (Large Area New-MIS Sensor and TFT) detector technology, which is geared toward pediatric use because of its ability to deliver high-quality diagnostic images with minimal x-ray exposure to patients. The CXDI-40EC system is equipped with a 17- x 17-inch imaging area for capturing large and small images without adjusting the detector orientation.

CPI Canada (Georgetown, Ont). The CPIVision is a new digital fluoroscopic workstation for the CPI Indico family of RF generators. Capable of saving an entire fluoroscopic series and designed to store images directly to disk, the solution system is compact and easy to deploy. The CPIVision also features DICOM integration, angiographic, and annotation tools.

Fluke Biomedical (Cleveland). Two new devices will be available for review at RSNA. First, the 35080M Non-Invasive kV Divider is a pocket-size device that measures kV when directly exposed to an x-ray beam. Test results are displayed instantly in direct numerical kV values on the 35050 Triad Dosimeter, or values can be calculated using an oscilloscope. Second is the CR RadChex test tool. Now available in a wireless configuration, it is used to ensure that the system is delivering the proper dose to the patient and CR imaging plate.

GE Healthcare?s Definium 8000.

GE Healthcare (Waukesha, Wis). The company’s portable digital x-ray system, the Definium AMX, was designed to meet the needs of virtually any portable application. Also on display will be GE Healthcare’s next-generation, fixed-room DR system, the Definium 8000, which offers multiple configurations from a wall stand to a full, comprehensive radiographic room. The Definium 8000’s Auto Image Paste function generates single panoramic views of the human anatomy, particularly the spine and legs, without any visible seam lines. And the VolumeRad application allows for multiple images to be acquired on the digital detector with only a single x-ray exposure.

iCRco Inc (Torrance, Calif). The iCR7200 Dual Bay CR system employs patented technology to scan phosphor screens (CR plates) and simultaneously process two cassettes. The result is a throughput of 180 full-size plates per hour using its two high-resolution CR bays. A patented design incorporates iCRco’s flat scan path, a scan mechanism that works without ever touching the active area of the plate. Because no stresses are placed on the plate during the scanning process, the result is consistent, ultrahigh-resolution images with high fidelity across the entire image. The iCR7200 Dual Bay comes standard with a touch-screen monitor, a user interface, and an integrated bar code scanner.

Imaging3 Inc (Burbank, Calif). The Dominion 3D, based on low-dose fluoroscopy, is able to deliver detailed 3D medical diagnostic images of virtually any part of the human body in real time. The device is sized to be able to roll through a standard hospital-room doorway and can run off a standard wall outlet so that a separate room or facility is not required. The Dominion’s slim, flat-panel detector imaging head provides unfettered access to the patient’s entire body.

Kodak?s DR 9500

Kodak’s Health Group (Rochester, NY). A new multipurpose DR system will debut in Kodak’s booth. The DirectView DR 9500’s ceiling-mounted U-arm tube and detector, combined with multiple operator interfaces, equips this single-detector system to perform exams that normally require dual detectors. Able to accommodate a variety of popular mobile radiographic tables, the system’s three operator interfaces minimize the need for technologists to move during imaging exams. It also moves with ease around the patient, making it well matched for general radiography, pediatric, geriatric, and trauma patients.

Radcal Corp (Monrovia, Calif). The 9095 Multi-Purpose Analyzer measures dose, dose rate, kV, time, and mAs. Users can set time and radiation units, temperature, and pressure-compensation modes; choose or eliminate main-menu functions; and control other parameters. Radcal also will be introducing a new instrument line to complement its ion-chamber-based instruments. The automated, 4085D+ Multipurpose Analyzer is based on diode dose sensors and is coupled with the company’s Accu-kV technology for true kV measurements. Exclusive FFT kV technology, waveform output, interchangeable sensors, and total remote control round out the package.

Clockwise from top left are more CR, DR, and x-ray products, including Source-Ray?s SR-130D portable x-ray system, Swissray?s ALLinONE, and Varian Medical?s PaxScan.

Source-Ray Inc (Bohemia, NY). Source-Ray will feature three models of its portable x-ray systems. First, the SR-130D Direct Capture Digital Portable X-Ray system uses a 14- x 17-inch x-ray sensor panel and an integrated touch-screen computer, making it possible for images to be captured, viewed, and verified at the bedside. Next, the SR-130 delivers the maximum mR/mAs, producing 3 kW of power that can reduce exposure times on difficult radiographic anatomical views, minimizing patient-motion problems. Finally, the durable and highly reliable SR-115’s folding design makes easy work of moving the 85-pound system.

Swissray International (Elizabeth, NJ). Patient data, such as weight and height, is automatically collected and wirelessly transmitted to the ddR system being used via Swissray’s ALLinONE Stand. After receiving the data, the eXpert 5000 calculates the perfect x-ray exam technique for that particular patient’s physique. Swissray also now adds its Automated Positioning System (APS) to all of its DR systems. APS automates all positioning and image-acquisition requirements and transfers patient data directly from the RIS/HIS via a DICOM worklist. Another announcement is the launch of its worldwide Proactive Remote Monitoring service. Jointly developed with Questra Corp (Redwood City, Calif), the service fully supports monitoring, diagnostics, proactive, and reactive alarms; remote desktop control; software configuration management; and analytics on a real-time, around-the-clock basis.

Toshiba America Medical Systems (Tustin, Calif). The company’s ceiling-mounted T.Rad-Plus Digital system’s portable DR panel is built with independently moving components. It boasts a 700-pound table capacity and a color touch-screen control panel for tableside operation. Next, with its portable DR panel, the Kalare R&F is a 100% filmless system that works like two, improving the utility of one room. In vascular x-ray, Toshiba Medical will showcase its patented suite of integrated planning tools available on its full line of Infinix 3D vascular labs—DeviceFusion and BoneFusion. And GuideView technology enhances visualization of guide wires and other devices by fading live image backgrounds during fluoroscopy procedures—potentially reducing contrast use, exam time, and device positioning.

Varian Medical Systems / Interay (North Charleston, SC). Varian Interay has been adding to its line of replacement tube products. The RAD-11 is intended as a direct replacement for the RADPLUS 2100 D2652P tube unit used in GE Healthcare’s AMX4+ Portable x-ray systems. With a 0.8-mm focal spot, 196kHU, and 14? anode, the RAD-11 autocalibrates when loaded into the AMX4+ MX75 H.1 housing. Next, a replacement for the Philips Medical Systems SRM 2250 Grid-Switch X-ray Tube, the P-456, offers a grid-controlled 0.5/1.0-mm focal spot, a 22/50kW 15? target angle, and a 400 khu anode. Loaded in Philips Medical’s ROT-500/ ROT-501 Housing, it is designed to calibrate on Philips Medical generators, including the CP series.

Varian Medical Systems (Palo Alto, Calif). In addition to its full line of x-ray tubes and cancer-treatment technologies, Varian Medical hits RSNA with a host of new and updated PaxScan digital x-ray image detectors. The new PaxScan 1313 is intended to replace the 6-inch image intensifiers currently used in many mini C-arm systems and is able to produce up to 30 images per second. Next, the PaxScan 2520V replaces the 2520 for cardiac and conventional C-arm users. The command processor has been replaced with virtual software, and new ASIC chip technology makes it possible for the system to deliver 14-bit grayscale contrast resolution. Finally, the PaxScan 4030CB—with the company’s new second-generation Command Processor (CP2)—is used for cone-beam CT imaging. It can acquire high-resolution fluoroscopic images at up to 30 frames per second (fps) and radiographic images at up to 7.5 fps.

CT

Beekley Corp (Bristol, Conn). Beekley wants radiologists to save an average of 8 minutes per biopsy with its new GuideLines CT-guided biopsy grids. Available in two sizes—4 x 5 inches and 7 x 7.5 inches—and made from medical-grade adhesive, GuideLines is suitable for every biopsy scenario. Each grid consists of multiple nonlead lines with an open window between each line, giving physicians an easy and precise method for identification of the needle-entry site.

CT offerings include (from top) echelon?s course on 3D CT, Koning?s cone-beam CT scanner, and Shared Imaging?s mobile CT programs.

echelon (Orlando, Fla). Online courses from echelon provide educational opportunities for imaging professionals. An updated PET/CT course is available, as is a new course focused on 3D CT. Courses deliver overviews of each modality, exploring current and future professional issues as well as the role of the imaging professional in these developing technologies. Learning is reinforced through interactive modules, and a post-test acts as a final assessment tool.

Fluke Biomedical (Cleveland). The new Nested CT Dose Phantom Set is a more lightweight and portable set of QA phantoms for measuring CT dose index in both children and adults. The pediatric head and pediatric body/adult head segments nestle inside the large adult body. Weighing 60 pounds lighter than the separate three-phantom set, it fits in a wheeled carrying case.

Koning Corp (West Henrietta, NY). Koning Corp is pleased to introduce its first cone-beam CT scanner, the Koning CT for breast and extremities. A horizontal gantry permits comfortable patient positioning with modular positioning inserts to accommodate various body parts. Image viewing is both 2D multislice, multi-planar, and full 3D visualization. According to Koning, the potential of cone-beam technology is extensive, including in situations where current CT systems cannot be used due to size, cost, or technical limitations. Koning CT is not yet approved for sale in the United States.

Kyoto Kagaku Ltd (Kyoto, Japan). The Chest Phantom N1 provides a realistic model designed to enrich training opportunities. The unique radiological substitute material and the elaborate 3D models of pulmonic blood vessels offer lifelike x-ray and CT images. Applicable to both plain radiography and CT scanning, the inner parts of the Chest Phantom N1 consist of mediastinum, pulmonic blood vessels, and abdomen blocks. All parts are easily detachable, allowing mimic tumors or other lesions to be attached in the lungs.

CT offerings include Kyoto Kagaku?s Chest Phantom N1 (left) and Siemens Medical?s Somatom Definition (right).

MEDRAD Inc (Indianola, Pa). MEDRAD will introduce enhancements to its Stellant D CT Injection System. SmartFlow saves time by automatically suggesting injection protocols after factoring in patient-specific parameters, such as body weight, scan duration, and contrast concentration. SmartFlow allows preferences for settings to be determined in advance so that the technologist enters only patient-specific parameters. Additional options include the ability to perform a saline test inject for vein patency; a test bolus for contrast timing; or a diagnostic injection with contrast, DualFlow, and saline flush.

Shared Imaging (Streamwood, Ill). Shared Imaging’s mobile and fixed CT programs include site-planning assistance, transportation of diagnostic imaging equipment, OEM maintenance and emergency service, and training for existing staff members. The company’s CT programs are all-inclusive and customizable.

Siemens Medical Solutions (Malvern, Pa). Siemens Medical will highlight its new dual-source CT system, the Somatom Definition, which is capable of imaging full cardiac detail with as much as 50% less radiation exposure compared to traditional CT scans. Making it possible to image patients with high or irregular heart rates, or even arrhythmia, without beta blocker medications, the Somatom Definition also enables physicians to better identify and characterize plaque. Featuring a 31-inch bore opening and a 79-inch scan range, the Somatom Definition is equipped with z-Sharp Technology, the Straton x-ray tube, and CARE solutions.

Data and Image Archiving, Storage, and Distribution

Acronova Technology Inc (North Brunswick, NJ). Acronova provides solutions to fulfill all disk-replication needs and requirements. The company’s DupliQ solution automatically loads and unloads disks, and up to 25 disks can be loaded at a time for an automated batch operation. Apus-EZ Plus is a high-performance, compact, autonomous CD/DVD duplication system. Boasting a patented vertical in-line loading hopper, it is capable of storing and burning up to 100 CDs or DVDs at a time.

Acuo Technologies (St Paul, Minn). V5.0 of Acuo’s DICOM Services Grid solution brings with it improved functionality for end-users to better reconcile, distribute, and maintain medical image data. Enhancements in the latest version include support of superior lossless and lossy image-compression quality via Wavelet-based JPEG 2000; support for Storage Commit as a Storage Class Provider for reliable delivery of image data; Acuo RIS/PACS Synchronizer to promote broker-less environments; support for SQL Server 2005; and VPN-less Encryption support for high demand by multisite customers.

Ashva Technologies Ltd (Chennai, India). Debuting at RSNA is a PC-based DICOM CD station with the ability to query/retrieve DICOM images from an existing PACS or from multiple modalities. Multiple users can concurrently access and store images on a local database and write them onto CD/DVD in an automated manner. Customized labeling of burned CDs/DVDs also is performed automatically.

BRIT Systems (Dallas). The Roentgen Router is now available for use with any vendor’s DICOM-compliant PACS or teleradiology system. System managers use the Roentgen Router to build routes based on information within the DICOM header of radiographic images, including body region, modality type, and referring physician. By using this product’s intelligent prefetching feature, comparison studies can be sent along with the new studies to reading services.

Data and image distribution products to be showcased include the ImageGrid 1500 from Candelis (left) and the Virtua Medical Disc Publisher from Codonics (right).

Candelis Inc (Irvine, Calif). The company’s line of fully integrated, DICOM-compatible server appliances will be on display. The newest ImageGrid promises up to 11.25 terabytes (TB) of raw capacity in an easy-to-implement, rack-mountable 3U form factor. It is available with the optional ImageGrid ILM software integrated with Sony tape libraries for advanced information life-cycle management. Candelis also announces its comprehensive, built-in support for the HL7 international standard, providing the required inputs for modality worklist, modality performed procedure step, minimum departmental scheduling services, and study validation.

Codonics Inc (Middleburg Heights, Ohio). Requiring just 2 feet of counter space, the Virtua Medical Disc Publisher will make its RSNA debut this year. The network-based CD/DVD publisher automatically records and labels patient studies, off-loading disk recording from the modality and PACS workstations. A user-friendly interface has an intuitive touch screen that displays all queued patient studies at once, and Virtua’s dual-drive functionality records large studies onto several disks without requiring operator intervention. CDs can be customized with a DICOM viewer for distribution to a patient, referring physician, or outside facility.

Data distribution and storage offerings: Commissure?s RadWhere Workflow Orchestrator (top left) , EMC?s Clariion CX380 (right), and iCRco?s PaxBox (bottom left).

Commissure Inc (New York). The RadWhere Workflow Orchestrator, the latest addition to Commissure’s RadWhere Suite of solutions, enables radiology departments to connect multiple PACS, RIS, 3D, advanced visualization, and teleradiology information into a central worklist. Joining these many systems eliminates the need for radiologists to switch between systems to bring up a worklist, view images, and dictate cases.

DatCard Systems (Irvine, Calif). MammoSmart makes it possible for patients to have their complete mammography history and breast care information on an automatically produced CD/DVD. MammoSmart integrates with existing hospital registration, PACS, and RIS/mammography systems so as not to interrupt department workflow. Each disk contains a wealth of educational patient information, such as medical history, digital mammography images, and more.

EMC Corp (Hopkinton, Mass). The three models of EMC’s new CLARiiON CX3 UltraScale series will be shown as a midrange storage architecture able to simultaneously support high-speed 2 and 4Gb/s Fibre Channel disk drives, as well as high-capacity 2Gb/s Low-Cost Fibre Channel disk drives for maximum flexibility. Providing a secure, central record repository, the EMC Captiva Enterprise Information Management and Documentum Enterprise Content Management solutions make it possible for EHRs to easily retrieve, collect, and aggregate information to provide a consolidated view of patient records. Finally, the EMC Centera content addressable storage provides immediate access to and active archiving for PACS applications, e-mail, file systems, and content management.

Evolved Digital Solutions Inc (Brentwood, Tenn). The Radweb—Evolved’s online, fully integrated workflow engine—tracks patients and their images from initial order entry to the signing of the clinical report. Evolved operates on a managed services model, offering clients end-to-end customer service and support for all solutions.

Healthy-IT (Rockville, Md). Based on TelePax technology, the NetPax is a Web-based DICOM and image-distribution server. This Internet-deployable technology uses Web-enabled technologies to provide access to patient information. The system’s WebPax software provides Web-based report and image viewing, security and privacy features to facilitate hospital HIPAA compliance, automated workflow tools for increased productivity, and a scalable design for hospitals of all sizes.

iCRco Inc (Torrance, Calif). PaxBox—a fully integrated DICOM standard image storage solution—is available with up to 8 TB of storage. The PaxBox server appliance offers a streamlined workflow by managing everything from image acquisition, ID, and digitizing to image-quality control and processing. The reliable, HIPAA-compliant storage and archival system is able to route images directly and concurrently from each modality for immediate storage, eliminating the inefficient need to manually transfer images to CDs or DVDs for archiving.

InSiteOne (Wallingford, Conn). Making its debut at RSNA is InSiteOne’s next-generation InDex managed service. Significant enhancements include increased data-access capabilities and monitoring with protection for patient- and site-specific data. Fully compliant with emerging XDS standards, the InDex managed service facilitates sharing patient information across multisite enterprises within a geographical region.

Numa Inc (Amherst, NH). The NumaStore Image Management Solution receives, stores, organizes, and distributes study data. Enabling users to sort and query images by 46 different attributes and create custom attributes or groups for research and teaching, NumaStore is an expandable solution that maintains the integrity of the original images. Next, designed to translate images from non-DICOM to DICOM format, NumaRead migrates offline tape/MOD/CD image archives to online image-management systems. The system can move records for a single patient, a study, or series, or the entire media contents. The company also will highlight NumaServer, which facilitates remote site connectivity for images.

TDK Medical (Garden City, NY). With its embedded network-ready PC and a CD-R/RW recording drive, the TDK DICOM Media Creator (DMC) 2000 system makes it possible to output patient studies on as many as 80 disks each day. The system can be configured with a DVD recording drive to accommodate very large patient studies and serve as a shelf archive and backup solution. Compatible with a variety of modalities, including MRI, CT, and PET, the DMC 2000 can create a single CD with multiple studies from the same patient.

Furniture

AFC Industries Inc (College Point, NY). The sleek, curved work surfaces and ergonomic design of the duel-tier Banana Corner Desk Cart will be unveiled at RSNA. Available in a range of colors, finishes, and widths, the cart is designed to maximize the accessible work area and minimize footprint. Its two tiers adjust up and down independently with the touch of a button, making it possible for multiple users to share the same workstation. The rear tier is capable of accommodating as many as six display mounts and a film illuminator.

Furniture offerings: AFC?s Banana Corner Desk Cart (right), Anthro?s Elevate Wrap for PACS (top left), and Biodex Medical?s SoundPro Combination Table (bottom left).

Anthro Corp (Portland, Ore). The newest member of Anthro’s Elevate Electric Lift Table family is the Elevate Wrap for PACS. Sitting on a frame composed of 16-gauge steel, the Wrap can go as low as 27 inches and reach up to 53 inches; its curved main surface will house up to four flat-panel monitors. Next, a POC Cart for radiology is a compactly designed mobile station that can be customized with a variety of accessories, including a bin, small equipment shelf, and LCD arm. The cart’s top shelf has a 50-pound load and measures 20 inches wide and 20 inches deep. Finally, Carl’s Table now holds up to four monitors on arms that can be pulled closer to the radiologist when necessary. The work surface can be adjusted to fit every user, and the tilting surface supports the forearm and shoulders.

Biodex Medical Systems (Shirley, NY). Biodex unveils the Sound Pro, a table combining the imaging features of two of its recently redesigned tables: the Ultra Pro table for ultrasound and the Echo Pro table for echocardiography. Designed specifically for imaging facilities with limited space or budget, the Sound Pro Combination Table offers a 30-inch width, a 500-pound patient weight capacity, and a height range from 23 to 39 inches. All table adjustments are accomplished with either a hand or foot controller and allow scanning from a seated or standing position.

From IES-Patient Comfort System are TEMPUR positioning cushions.

IES-Patient Comfort System Inc (Hayward, Calif). Developed in conjunction with Tempur-Pedic Medical Inc (Lexington, Ky), the new product line of mattress pads, wedges, and positioning cushions replaces original equipment pads and redistributes pressure away from weight-bearing points of body contact, reducing sensations of discomfort and pain. Made from TEMPUR material, the products conform to a thin form factor. IES will present studies that demonstrate the product line’s impact in significantly minimizing patient-motion artifacts during imaging exams.

Surgimed Solutions LLC (Prospect, Conn). The ITD line of carts and roll stands from Surgimed offers six different series of carts, designed to accommodate everything from the smallest devices to the most complex systems. Modularity is the hallmark of the company’s products, allowing for step-by-step design and construction to fit a myriad of needs. Like its carts and stands, Surgimed’s line of wall-mounting systems provides customization through modular design. Multiple flat-panel mounts, arms, keyboard trays, CPU brackets, and ancillary accessories allow for the design of systems to meet space, budget, and equipment requirements.

Monitors and Displays

Barco (Kortrijk, Belgium). The Coronis Color 3MP Diagnostic Luminance is an exceptionally bright color display system equipped with Diagnostic Luminance technology. The monitor boasts increased diagnostic precision, thanks in part to Barco’s proprietary Uniform Luminance Technology, which corrects luminance nonuniformities that are typical for traditional LCDs and backlights. NIO Fusion 4MP also will be at RSNA. Designed for either multiple PACS images at the same time or for working with large CT data sets throughout the hospital, the advanced display solution can be installed on either the wall or a mobile cart.

Broadwest Corp (New York). Broadwest will introduce the new Rolloscope MD monitor. Intended to ease the transition from analog to digital, the Rolloscope MD improves viewing conditions through its automated and ergonomic structure. Above one LCD monitor, 101 frames accommodate 6 over 6 of 18- x 24-cm films, four across of 24- x 30-cm mammograms; above two monitors, three across of 14- x 17-inch MRI or large ultrasound films can be accommodated. The Rolloscope MD can be shipped with a removable mounting bar for the monitors and used initially as a film-only device.

Monitor and display offerings at RSNA include (clockwise from top left): Barco?s Coronis Color 3MP, Broadwest?s Rolloscope MD, Planar?s Dome E5, and Double Black?s 3-MP LCD.

Double Black Imaging Corp (DBI of Westminster, Colo). The latest addition to DBI’s existing M-Series line of self-calibrating LCDs with remote administrative software, the 3-MP high-bright color self-calibrating LCD features retractable front sensors for autocalibration that emerges from the bezel then retracts when DICOM grayscale calibration is complete. LumiCal Calibration Software is included with the display, allowing for remote DICOM 3.14 calibration and monitoring, and sending notification when servicing is required. DBI also will showcase DICOMetrix, a resource tool that enables users to actively monitor, historically track system performance, and send alerts about system slow-downs and outages.

EIZO Nanao Technologies Inc (Cypress, Calif). Two new 5MP high-performance digital mammography LCD monitors will make their debut at RSNA. The monochrome displays offer a display of high-fidelity images with a choice of glare (RadiForce GS510-G) and antiglare (RadiForce GS510) panels according to the usage environment. Alongside its latest offerings, EIZO will showcase its existing line of grayscale and color monitors.

Matrox Graphics Inc (Montreal). The Matrox MED5mp technology will be available to customers in the form of the Totoku LV52P1 display controller board. Matrox MED Series display controller boards provide extensive multi-monitor support, pristine image quality, and robust drivers. Capable of driving all types of displays, MED Series display controller boards feature a range of grayscale and color, resolution, and operating system support.

Maxant Technologies Inc (Niles, Ill). Unveiling the latest enhancements to MediPort, its digital viewing station, Maxant promises the space-saving construction and access of a wall-mounted film viewer with the feature-rich functionality of a digital workstation. Improvements include a built-in CD/DVD player, a fold-up keyboard tray, and the opportunity to incorporate a 2MP color or grayscale monitor without incurring the cost or space of a multi-monitor configuration.

NCD Medical Corp (Eastlake, Ohio). NCD Medical is introducing two new imaging workstations with review/diagnostic processing capabilities that can be used as stand-alone units or in conjunction with NCD’s mini-PACS/document service called e-WIX. The company’s review workstation (PN: RVWS-80) is a 2MP dual-monitor HP workstation with diagnostic view/process/store software. The diagnostic workstation (PN: DNWS-80) is a 3MP dual-monitor system with diagnostic viewing, processing, storage, and imaging software.

Planar Systems (Beaverton, Ore). Planar is showcasing its line of Dome EX displays that includes a host of grayscale and full-color options. Designed to keep up with the most demanding PACS, the Dome E5 grayscale display features 3,061 unique shades of gray and offers full DICOM conformance, automatic calibration, and remote monitoring and maintenance. The Dome E3 grayscale display supports an open architecture design and has the capability of high-speed 3D and volumetric rendering. Planar will exhibit its color options as well.

RedRick Technologies Inc (Mount Brydges, Ont). The new SYN Triple and SYN Quad monitor mounting solutions help clinicians view images in the way that’s most comfortable for them. Both products allow facilities to mount heavy diagnostic monitors, making it possible to easily adjust the display systems. The units allow for vertical and horizontal motion, as well as tilting and swiveling to acquire ideal positioning. RedRick also designs and manufactures fully adjustable and durable workstations custom-made for any user.

US Electronics Inc (USEI of Minneapolis). Presenting a range of new high-resolution medical-grade displays, USEI also will show the Totoku model ME551i2, a 5MP grayscale LCD with front sensor, 24/7 DICOM-conformance check, and a built-in protective filer. Ideal for digital mammography, the display’s features include simultaneous display of 11-bit (2,048 shades of gray), a luminance-stabilizing system, and a hardware-pivot function on the main board for fast drawing in portrait orientation.

MRI

Avotec Inc (Stuart, Fla). Avotec provides visual and audio stimulus or DVDs using any common head coil. At RSNA, the company will feature three offerings for visual stimulus presentation during a functional MRI exam. The Silent Vision Model SV-5200 low-resolution rear projector can be used to either send stimulus to patients during presurgical brain mapping (fMRI) or to show DVDs to patients during an extended MRI scan (when used with the Silent Scan Model SS-3000 Audio System). Two different audio systems are the Silent Scan Model SS-3000 clinical audio system and the Silent Scan Model SS-3100 research audio system. All products manufactured by Avotec are completely inert and have been tested on magnets up to 4.7T.

Clockwise from top left are MRI products to be showcased at RSNA: the Silent Vision Model SV-5200 from Avotec; the Upright MRI from FONAR; the Echelon 1.5T MRI from Hitachi Medical; and the MRidium MRI Infustion System from IRadimed, which is distributed by Mallinckrodt.

Beekley Corp (Bristol, Conn). Ideal for extremities, soft-tissue masses, and breast MRI, Beekley’s new MR-Spots .75-cm Packets with Radiance enable the marker to image only on the slices specific to that area of interest. Specifically engineered for use in MRI, MR-Spots packets’ flat design delivers optimum patient comfort and a distinct, unmistakable image on every sequence.

FONAR Corp (Melville, NY). Making it possible to image patients in a weight-bearing state, FONAR’s Upright MRI allows patients to simply walk in and be scanned. The magnet is convertible to also allow for prone scanning, standing, sitting, flexing, extending, rotating, and lateral bending. FONAR’s latest MRI scanner is the FONAR 360, a room-size recumbent scanner in which the magnetic poles of the scanner are located in the center of the room. Patients are positioned in the center and are accessible from any angle.

Hitachi Medical Systems America (Twinsburg, Ohio). The Echelon 1.5T MR system is a compact imager with a list of standard features. The Echelon also includes Vertex, the integration of a multi-processor CPU and an advanced scan/reconstruction engine. Next, the Altaire High-Performance Open MR provides advanced imaging capabilities optimized for the open environment, including single-shot EPI, diffusion-weighted EPI, RF fat saturation, and FSE with short interecho times. Finally, designed with the company’s asymmetric two-post open architecture, the Airis Elite Advanced Mid-Field Open MR helps deliver a 0.3T field strength in a vertical orientation with high homogeneity. It incorporates multichannel active shimming, a Scalable DualQuad RF receiver, and advanced capabilities like RF fat saturation.

International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM of Berkeley, Calif). Together with the European Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine and Biology (ESMRMB), the ISMRM will provide detailed information about its 2007 Annual ISMRM-ESMRMB Meeting. Slated for May 19?25, 2007, in Berlin, Germany, the event promises to bring together 4,500-plus exhibitors and 265,000 participants. Other offerings include the ISMRM Molecular and Cellular Imaging Study Group (February 4?9, 2007), the ISMRM Course on MR Physics and Techniques for Clinicians (February 11?15, 2007), the ISMRM Workshop on Non-Cartesian MRI (February 25?28, 2007), and the ISMRM Workshop on Advances in High-Field MR (March 25?28, 2007).

Mallinckrodt, a Tyco Healthcare company (St Louis). Aiming to provide clinicians with a total solution for patients’ MRI and CT power injection requirements, Mallinckrodt introduces its large-volume, prefilled saline syringe offerings. At 50 mL for MRI and 125 mL for CT procedures, the syringes are compatible with Mallinckrodt’s OptiVantage DH, OptiStar LE, CT 9000 ADV, and OptiStat injectors. RSNA will mark the debut of the award-winning MRidium MRI Infusion System, which is manufactured by IRadimed Corp (Winter Park, Fla) and available throughout North America exclusively through Mallinckrodt. The truly nonmagnetic infusion pump makes it possible to provide a continuous flow of intravenous (IV) drugs during MRI procedures by using an ultrasonic ceramic motor, an exclusive array of IV sets, and a wireless remote control.

Clockwise from top left are additional MRI offerings: MEDRAD?s 3T Prostate eCoil, MIPM?s Tesla Guard MRI Patient Monitor, Resonance Technology?s CinemaVision, and Penn Diagnostics? ONCAD.

MEDRAD Inc (Indianola, Pa). The MEDRAD 3T Prostate eCoil is available for GE Healthcare’s Signa HDx 3T MR scanners and is designed to produce very accurate MR images of the prostate that may enable early diagnosis and staging of prostate cancer, as well as targeted radiation therapy. Consistent contact between the gland and the signal-amplifying elements of the coil is made possible through the eCoil’s balloon, which conforms to the size and shape of the prostate. The result is a small field of view and high spatial resolution, sensitivity, and specificity.

MIPM Mammendorfer Institut f?r Physik und Medizin GmbH (Munich, Germany). The latest version of the Tesla Guard MRI Patient Monitor includes all features required by anesthesia; and ECG, SPO2, IBP, and NBP customers can add anesthetic agent analysis and Wi-Fi data transfer. Next, the Tesla NIBP is a stand-alone monitor for NIBP measurement that is designed for use in conjunction with the Tesla OxySat, an MRI pulse oximeter that includes a perfusion index for easy monitoring of signal quality. Next, with three pumps for delivering anesthesia during MRI scans, the MRI Caddy allows clinicians to load standard syringes into the pumps. Finally, the Tesla etCO2 MRI-compatible capnograph will also be on display.

Penn Diagnostics (Rockville, Md). Extensively tested using a variety of breast MR systems and protocols, ONCAD is an FDA-cleared morphology-based CAD system for contrast-enhanced breast MRI. ONCAD interprets both morphologic and kinetic indications of malignancy through analysis of margin characteristics, internal lesion heterogeneity, and contrast uptake curves. Results are produced in colored overlays that highlight suspicious findings. The ONCAD package includes customized on-site installation, integration, training, and 24/7 customer support.

Resonance Technology Co Inc (Northridge, Calif). Resonance Technology will showcase two different systems at RSNA. CinemaVision is an advanced MRI-compatible, audio-video entertainment system that integrates video display and audio systems into a single, lightweight headset. The FuncLAB fMRI system combines a complete functional imaging task presentation component with a fully automated data-processing component. Featuring high-quality 3D graphics and sound capabilities, the system eliminates complex, time-intensive manual data analysis.

Shared Imaging (Streamwood, Ill). With more than 50 MRI systems in its program, Shared Imaging offers all-inclusive, customizable plans, including fee-per-procedure programs or fixed monthly options. The company’s mobile and fixed MRI programs include site-planning assistance, 1.5T technology, qualified technologists, and the option of using a modular annex or parked mobile facilities to create additional working space and house the MRI equipment.

Siemens Medical Solutions (Malvern, Pa). Siemens Medical’s total imaging matrix (Tim) technology is a seamless, whole-body surface coil design that combines up to 102 integrated coil elements with up to 32 independent radiofrequency channels. Enabling flexible coil combinations allows the magnet to encompass local high-resolution imaging to large anatomical coverage up to 205 cm (6 feet, 9 inches), without having to reposition the patient or perform manual coil changes.

Toshiba America Medical Systems (Tustin, Calif). The comp