10.31.2011

iCAD Announces Distribution Agreement with Hitachi For MR Image Analysis and Guided Biopsy Solution

NASHUA, N.H., Oct 31, 2011 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- iCAD, Inc. ICAD +2.82% , an industry-leading provider of advanced image analysis, workflow solutions and radiation therapies for the early identification and treatment of cancer, today announced that it has entered into a distribution agreement with Hitachi Medical Systems. With this agreement, iCAD's SpectraLook with PrecisionPoint image analysis solution for breast MRI will be available for purchase with Hitachi's Oasis and Echelon MRI systems. iCAD's MRI solution will assist radiologists in distinguishing potential cancers in the breast as part of their overall analysis of MRI studies and streamline the planning and performance of MRI-guided percutaneous breast biopsies.

"Dynamic MRI is being utilized with increased frequency as a less-invasive way to identify cancer at an early stage," said Ken Ferry, President and CEO of iCAD. "With this agreement, iCAD's advanced image analysis technology will be available to assist the many clinicians using Hitachi's MR systems to increase diagnostic confidence -- allowing them to more accurately and quickly assess a tumor, which should lead to more targeted treatment options for their patients."

source: Market Watch

10.24.2011

White children more likely than minorities to receive CT scans following minor head trauma

BOSTON – African-American and Hispanic children are less likely to receive a cranial computed tomography (CT) scan in an emergency department following minor head trauma than white children, according to University of Michigan research presented Oct. 14 at the American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference and Exhibition in Boston.

While racial disparities in adult health care are well documented, less is known about the variations in pediatric, and specifically, Emergency Department care. Appropriate CT scan use can ensure optimal diagnosis. However, as CT scans emit "appreciable radiation," potentially increasing cancer risk, their overuse can be harmful and expensive.

In the study, "Cranial CT Use for Minor Head Trauma in Children is Associated with Race/Ethnicity," researchers at the University of Michigan and other institutions including University of California-Davis, reviewed existing data on children seeking care at one of 25 Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network trauma centers. The study looked at CT use following a head injury, based on the child's potential for traumatic brain injury.

source: University of Michigan Health System