(Marketwire) -- 01/29/10 -- Published reports on the usefulness of CT scans for complicated H1N1 cases have spurred use of these procedures in U.S. hospitals. According to healthcare market research publisher Kalorama Information, this opens up a pathway of diagnostics for physicians and overall is a positive sign not only for the technology but also for companies making chemical agents for procedures. In the recent report "Medical Imaging Markets: Contrast Agents," Kalorama estimates the sale of CT contrast agents in the U.S. at $880 million in 2009.
Computed tomography (CT) uses energy waves to image the human body and renders an image in 3D from a series of two-dimensional x-rays. Although it is not completely novel for a CT scan to be ordered for flu cases where pain is reported, a new study suggests the technology is preferable to x-rays. The study, conducted in coordination with the University of Michigan Health Service and published in the December 2009 issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology, has given new support to the modality's usage in the most severe cases of the H1N1 flu virus.
The study, which consisted of a review of thousands of patient records, offered several important findings: that H1N1 flu can cause pulmonary embolism, that PE may be responsible for H1N1 deaths, and that physician evaluation of patients diagnosed with respiratory complications via contrast-enhanced CT scan is recommended. The study did not establish the technology as a test for detecting the virus itself. The primary test for H1N1 is an immunoassay that can detect antigens for specific strains of flu. But the study supports using the CT scan as an adjunctive tool after other tests are performed, to determine if the patient's flu is a major case.
source: MarketWire
1.26.2010
Younger Women With Suspected Appendicitis Benefit From Preoperative CT
Preoperative computed tomography (CT) may help reduce unnecessary surgeries in women of reproductive age with suspected acute appendicitis, according to a new study appearing in the February issue of the journal Radiology.
"We found that rising utilization of preoperative CT over the past decade, along with advances in CT technology, coincided with a significant decrease in negative appendectomies among women 45 years and younger," said Courtney A. Coursey, M.D., a radiologist at Emory University in Atlanta, who co-authored this study while a radiology fellow at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.C.
source: Medical News Today
"We found that rising utilization of preoperative CT over the past decade, along with advances in CT technology, coincided with a significant decrease in negative appendectomies among women 45 years and younger," said Courtney A. Coursey, M.D., a radiologist at Emory University in Atlanta, who co-authored this study while a radiology fellow at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.C.
source: Medical News Today
1.23.2010
Adverse Reactions from Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents Used During MRI Rarely Occur, Study Suggests
Acute adverse reactions from gadolinium-based contrast agents used during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to help improve the information seen on the images rarely occur, according to a study published in the February issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology.
Since approval of the first gadolinium-based contrast agent the use of contrast agents for MRI has been evolving. “These agents are useful in the diagnosis of several diseases and conditions and are considered generally safe in clinical practice,” said Hani H. Abujudeh, MD, lead author of the study. “However the association between the use of gadolinium-based agents and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) has sparked controversy over the years,” said Abujudeh.
NSF is a potentially lethal systemic disease that has raised the concern over the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents for imaging of patients with underlying renal impairment. “When prescribing gadolinium-based contrast agents, radiologists need to consider not only the risk of NSF but also the risk of acute adverse reactions,” he said.
The study, performed at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, included a total of 32,659 gadolinium-based contrast injections for MRI examinations. “A total of 51 acute adverse reactions occurred in 50 patients, accounting for 0.16 percent of all administrations,” said Abujudeh. The majority of the reactions that did occur were mild including nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. However six moderate and two severe reactions did occur.
source: ARRS
Since approval of the first gadolinium-based contrast agent the use of contrast agents for MRI has been evolving. “These agents are useful in the diagnosis of several diseases and conditions and are considered generally safe in clinical practice,” said Hani H. Abujudeh, MD, lead author of the study. “However the association between the use of gadolinium-based agents and nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) has sparked controversy over the years,” said Abujudeh.
NSF is a potentially lethal systemic disease that has raised the concern over the use of gadolinium-based contrast agents for imaging of patients with underlying renal impairment. “When prescribing gadolinium-based contrast agents, radiologists need to consider not only the risk of NSF but also the risk of acute adverse reactions,” he said.
The study, performed at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, included a total of 32,659 gadolinium-based contrast injections for MRI examinations. “A total of 51 acute adverse reactions occurred in 50 patients, accounting for 0.16 percent of all administrations,” said Abujudeh. The majority of the reactions that did occur were mild including nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness. However six moderate and two severe reactions did occur.
source: ARRS
1.20.2010
Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc. Launches ABLAVAR™ (Gadofosveset Trisodium), a New Diagnostic Magnetic Resonance Angiography Agent
N. BILLERICA, Mass. (January 20, 2010) – Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc., a worldwide leader in diagnostic imaging, today announced the launch of ABLAVAR™ (gadofosveset trisodium), a unique, injectable MRA imaging agent used to evaluate aortoiliac occlusive disease (AIOD) in adults with known or suspected peripheral vascular disease (PVD). ABLAVAR™ is the first and only contrast imaging agent approved in the United States for use with a magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) indication to evaluate AIOD. AIOD is a type of PVD that occurs when arteries, which carry blood from the heart to the lower limbs, become narrowed or blocked. This lack of blood supply can result in pain, infection and even loss of limbs1.
In Phase 3 clinical studies, ABLAVAR™ demonstrated statistically greater sensitivity (detecting disease when present) compared with non-contrast MRA2. These studies, which supported the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of ABLAVAR™, show that MRA images using ABLAVAR™ provided diagnostic accuracy comparable to conventional X-ray angiography,3,4 an invasive procedure which involves insertion of a catheter into the arteries in the upper thigh (groin area) or arm5.
“ABLAVAR™ provides distinct advantages over X-ray angiography, the current standard of care in diagnosing AIOD,” said Mark G. Hibberd, M.D., Ph.D., Senior Medical Director, Global Medical Affairs, Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc. “ABLAVAR™ provides high resolution images comparable to conventional X-ray angiography (the current gold standard), which offers radiologists a clear, enhanced visualization of patients’ arteries. However, ABLAVAR™ is given in a single, low dose injection, does not require catheter insertion into a patient’s arteries, and does not expose patients to ionizing radiation, all of which are tangible benefits to patients.”
source: Lantheus Medical Imaging
In Phase 3 clinical studies, ABLAVAR™ demonstrated statistically greater sensitivity (detecting disease when present) compared with non-contrast MRA2. These studies, which supported the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of ABLAVAR™, show that MRA images using ABLAVAR™ provided diagnostic accuracy comparable to conventional X-ray angiography,3,4 an invasive procedure which involves insertion of a catheter into the arteries in the upper thigh (groin area) or arm5.
“ABLAVAR™ provides distinct advantages over X-ray angiography, the current standard of care in diagnosing AIOD,” said Mark G. Hibberd, M.D., Ph.D., Senior Medical Director, Global Medical Affairs, Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc. “ABLAVAR™ provides high resolution images comparable to conventional X-ray angiography (the current gold standard), which offers radiologists a clear, enhanced visualization of patients’ arteries. However, ABLAVAR™ is given in a single, low dose injection, does not require catheter insertion into a patient’s arteries, and does not expose patients to ionizing radiation, all of which are tangible benefits to patients.”
source: Lantheus Medical Imaging
1.19.2010
Siemens Delivers Complete Dose Protection to St. Louis Children's Hospital
Even though CT is a crucial medical imaging tool in diagnosing illness and disease in children, there is always a concern over the amount of radiation dose a pediatric patient receives. Medical institutions, such as St. Louis Children's Hospital, strive to provide the best medical imaging exams as possible, while ensuring one of the best methods for its patients. The addition of the SOMATOM Definition AS provides the link between dose protection and imaging excellence for Children's Hospital's young patients.
"In light of recent studies on radiation dose and best practices for dose reduction, it is essential to employ a CT scanner that can not only ensure some dose reduction, but provide one of the fastest scan speeds, while still maintaining optimal imaging performance," said Dr. Marilyn J. Siegel, division of Diagnostic Radiology and professor of Radiology and Pediatrics, St. Louis Children's Hospital. "This latest addition to our CT family allows Children's Hospital to better serve our young patients with safe, effective, quality care."
In the July 2009 issue of Radiology*, a team of researchers evaluated the potential effectiveness of adaptive collimation in reducing CT radiation dose owing to z-overscanning (one of the factors responsible for radiation burden in spiral CT examinations) by using dose measurements and dose simulations.
The data revealed that by using adaptive section collimation, a substantial dose reduction of up to 10 percent was achieved for cardiac and chest CT when measurements were performed free in air and of 7 percent, on average, when measurements were performed in phantoms. For scan ranges smaller than 12 cm, ionization chamber measurements and simulations indicated a dose reduction of up to 38 percent, according to the team's findings.
source: PR Newswire
"In light of recent studies on radiation dose and best practices for dose reduction, it is essential to employ a CT scanner that can not only ensure some dose reduction, but provide one of the fastest scan speeds, while still maintaining optimal imaging performance," said Dr. Marilyn J. Siegel, division of Diagnostic Radiology and professor of Radiology and Pediatrics, St. Louis Children's Hospital. "This latest addition to our CT family allows Children's Hospital to better serve our young patients with safe, effective, quality care."
In the July 2009 issue of Radiology*, a team of researchers evaluated the potential effectiveness of adaptive collimation in reducing CT radiation dose owing to z-overscanning (one of the factors responsible for radiation burden in spiral CT examinations) by using dose measurements and dose simulations.
The data revealed that by using adaptive section collimation, a substantial dose reduction of up to 10 percent was achieved for cardiac and chest CT when measurements were performed free in air and of 7 percent, on average, when measurements were performed in phantoms. For scan ranges smaller than 12 cm, ionization chamber measurements and simulations indicated a dose reduction of up to 38 percent, according to the team's findings.
source: PR Newswire
1.12.2010
Imaging Studies Help Detect Underlying Cancers in Patients With Neurologic Symptoms
ScienceDaily (Jan. 12, 2010) — A combined positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) scan of the whole body appears to detect cancer in individuals with related neurologic complications more accurately than some other commonly used tests, according to a report posted online that will appear in the March print issue of Archives of Neurology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.
Paraneoplastic neurologic disorders occur in some people with cancer -- including lung, breast or ovarian cancer -- and may develop when cancer-fighting antibodies mistakenly attack cells in the nervous system. "In the assessment of patients with suspected paraneoplastic neurologic disorders, routine non-invasive oncologic evaluations may be unrevealing," the authors write as background information in the article. "These standard evaluations include physical examination; computed tomography (CT) of the chest, abdomen and pelvis; mammography in women; and testicular ultrasonography and prostate-specific antigen testing in men." Cancers underlying paraneoplastic neurologic disorders are typically small, restricted to one site and are often not detected until autopsy.
source: Science Daily Release
Paraneoplastic neurologic disorders occur in some people with cancer -- including lung, breast or ovarian cancer -- and may develop when cancer-fighting antibodies mistakenly attack cells in the nervous system. "In the assessment of patients with suspected paraneoplastic neurologic disorders, routine non-invasive oncologic evaluations may be unrevealing," the authors write as background information in the article. "These standard evaluations include physical examination; computed tomography (CT) of the chest, abdomen and pelvis; mammography in women; and testicular ultrasonography and prostate-specific antigen testing in men." Cancers underlying paraneoplastic neurologic disorders are typically small, restricted to one site and are often not detected until autopsy.
source: Science Daily Release
1.08.2010
New Low Dose CT Protocols for Stone Detection may Hold Key to Reducing Cancer Risk from Radiation
Loma Linda, CA (Vocus/PRWEB ) January 8, 2010 -- Researchers from the department of radiology and urology at Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) are working to reduce the radiation exposure associated with CT imaging. A study featured on the cover of December’s Journal of Urology, may hold a key to reducing the risk of cancer from CT imaging.
Loma Linda University Medical Center, LLUMC“In this paper we were able to use an experimental protocol to reduce the radiation exposure for CT imaging by 95% without decreasing the sensitivity or specificity for detection of ureteral stones,” said Dr. Forrest Jellison, a resident at LLUMC and one of the authors of the study.
Recently, evidence has mounted suggesting that the radiation associated with medical imaging may place patients at risk for malignancy and death. In an article recently published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, it was predicted that of the 72 million patients receiving a CT in the United States in 2007, approximately 29,000 would ultimately develop cancer from this radiation exposure. Half of these cancer patients could ultimately die.
“Our low dose CT study is unique in its prospective design. By using cadavers we were able to compare CT imaging at many different radiation levels in a way that would have been unethical in a patient,” said Dr. Duane Baldwin, associate professor of urology at Loma Linda University and lead author of the paper. “The lowest dose protocol reduced the radiation level by 95% without altering the detection of stones.”
source: PR Web
Loma Linda University Medical Center, LLUMC“In this paper we were able to use an experimental protocol to reduce the radiation exposure for CT imaging by 95% without decreasing the sensitivity or specificity for detection of ureteral stones,” said Dr. Forrest Jellison, a resident at LLUMC and one of the authors of the study.
Recently, evidence has mounted suggesting that the radiation associated with medical imaging may place patients at risk for malignancy and death. In an article recently published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, it was predicted that of the 72 million patients receiving a CT in the United States in 2007, approximately 29,000 would ultimately develop cancer from this radiation exposure. Half of these cancer patients could ultimately die.
“Our low dose CT study is unique in its prospective design. By using cadavers we were able to compare CT imaging at many different radiation levels in a way that would have been unethical in a patient,” said Dr. Duane Baldwin, associate professor of urology at Loma Linda University and lead author of the paper. “The lowest dose protocol reduced the radiation level by 95% without altering the detection of stones.”
source: PR Web
1.07.2010
New Brain Scan Better Detects Earliest Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease in Healthy People
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A new type of brain scan, called diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), appears to be better at detecting whether a person with memory loss might have brain changes of Alzheimer’s disease, according to a new study published in the January 6, 2010, online issue of Neurology®, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology.
“As better medicines for Alzheimer’s disease become available, it will be important to identify people at high risk for the disease as early and accurately as possible so treatment can be most effective,” said Norbert Schuff, PhD, with the University of California and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, author of an editorial about the research.
For the study, 76 healthy people in Rome aged 20 to 80 underwent DTI-MRI brain scanning, which is more sensitive than traditional MRI for detecting changes in brain chemistry, thereby mapping fiber tracts that connect brain regions. The researchers examined DTI changes in the hippocampus, a region of the brain that is critical to memory and one that is involved in Alzheimer’s disease.
source: American Academy Neurology
“As better medicines for Alzheimer’s disease become available, it will be important to identify people at high risk for the disease as early and accurately as possible so treatment can be most effective,” said Norbert Schuff, PhD, with the University of California and the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, author of an editorial about the research.
For the study, 76 healthy people in Rome aged 20 to 80 underwent DTI-MRI brain scanning, which is more sensitive than traditional MRI for detecting changes in brain chemistry, thereby mapping fiber tracts that connect brain regions. The researchers examined DTI changes in the hippocampus, a region of the brain that is critical to memory and one that is involved in Alzheimer’s disease.
source: American Academy Neurology
1.06.2010
The US Drug Watchdog Expands Its Gadolinium-Medical MRI's- Kidney Disease & NSF Initiative
Washington, DC (PRWEB) January 4, 2010 -- The US Drug Watchdog is launching a national investigation into the dye used in MRI imaging called Gadolinium, out of fear that thousands of US citizens with kidney disease, who had and MRI in the last 10 years, where this dye was used, may now have an incurable medical condition known as NSF. Because so little information is available on this very important issue the US Drug Watchdog is begging the national press to cover this very important story. The group is saying, "26 million US citizens have kidney disease. We have linked a specific type of imaging dye used in MRI's called Gadolinium, to an incurable medical condition called NSF. Our biggest fear is most Americans with kidney disease have never linked their NSF, to the fact the were injected with a dye called Gadolinium, as part of the process in getting a MRI." The US Drug Watchdog is also saying, "we also fear that many to most physicians, especially dermatologists, or internists may not have connected the dots between the use of the Gadolinium dye used in MRI's, and their patients having symptoms of this horrible medical condition called NSF." Victims of NSF, who had a MRI, where Gadolinium was used should call the US Drug Watchdog immediately at 866-714-6466, or contact the group via its web site at Http://USDrugWatchdog.Com
source: PR Web
source: PR Web
1.01.2010
Encompass Group Voluntarily Recalls Thermoflect Product Line
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – December 26, 2009 – McDonough, GA – Jea R. Gackowski, Encompass Group Corporate Compliance Officer announced today the company is voluntarily recalling the Thermoflect product line for relabeling regarding its use in the MR (Magnetic Resonance) environment.
"We are voluntarily recalling the product line from use in the Magnetic Resonance (MR) environment," Gackowski said. "We are requesting that the Thermoflect blankets and other products not be used in MR conditional or MR compatible environments. We are in the process of sending labels to our customers to be attached per instructions to remind the hospitals that the product line should not be used in the MR environment.
"In the past, we have stated that the Thermoflect product may be used in the MR environment. However, after being informed by the FDA, at this time we will not promote the products for use in the Magnetic Resonance Environment. However, the product is still safe and effective for use in treating hypothermia."
We have been advised by the FDA that a report has been filed of an injury to an (MRI) patient. Several items are under consideration, including all of the blankets used in the MRI environment, of which Thermoflect is one. There is no evidence that the Thermoflect blanket caused the injury but as a precautionary measure we are voluntarily recalling the product line for relabeling.
source: FDA Release
"We are voluntarily recalling the product line from use in the Magnetic Resonance (MR) environment," Gackowski said. "We are requesting that the Thermoflect blankets and other products not be used in MR conditional or MR compatible environments. We are in the process of sending labels to our customers to be attached per instructions to remind the hospitals that the product line should not be used in the MR environment.
"In the past, we have stated that the Thermoflect product may be used in the MR environment. However, after being informed by the FDA, at this time we will not promote the products for use in the Magnetic Resonance Environment. However, the product is still safe and effective for use in treating hypothermia."
We have been advised by the FDA that a report has been filed of an injury to an (MRI) patient. Several items are under consideration, including all of the blankets used in the MRI environment, of which Thermoflect is one. There is no evidence that the Thermoflect blanket caused the injury but as a precautionary measure we are voluntarily recalling the product line for relabeling.
source: FDA Release
12.31.2009
PET Plays Critical Role in Supporting Parkinson's Disease Research
Reston, Va.—A large-scale study conducted to measure the effectiveness of dopamine cell transplantation in Parkinson’s disease patients shows significant improvements in motor skills and brain function, according to research reported in the January issue of The Journal of Nuclear Medicine (JNM). The results of this study demonstrate that transplanted cells were viable and integrated well with the host brain tissue. Furthermore, these cells produced dopamine that helped support the brain and led to an improvement in motor symptoms. These improvements were sustained over a four-year study period.
“This study provided new insights into the time course of transplantation outcome,” said David Eidelberg, M.D., study co-author and director of the Neuroscience Center at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research in Manhasset, N.Y. “Comprehensive long-term clinical follow-up, together with molecular imaging, allows for a more realistic appraisal of this kind of intervention for Parkinson’s disease.”
Researchers reported long-term clinical and imaging outcomes after transplantation from 33 patients who originally participated in a one-year, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of embryonic dopaminergic cell implantation for Parkinson’s disease. Clinical improvement in motor ratings, as well as increased brain uptake of 18F-fluorodopa (18F-FDOPA)—the radiotracer that is widely used to investigate the function of dopamine grafts—was evident at one, two and four years after the transplantation surgery.
source: SNM
“This study provided new insights into the time course of transplantation outcome,” said David Eidelberg, M.D., study co-author and director of the Neuroscience Center at the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research in Manhasset, N.Y. “Comprehensive long-term clinical follow-up, together with molecular imaging, allows for a more realistic appraisal of this kind of intervention for Parkinson’s disease.”
Researchers reported long-term clinical and imaging outcomes after transplantation from 33 patients who originally participated in a one-year, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of embryonic dopaminergic cell implantation for Parkinson’s disease. Clinical improvement in motor ratings, as well as increased brain uptake of 18F-fluorodopa (18F-FDOPA)—the radiotracer that is widely used to investigate the function of dopamine grafts—was evident at one, two and four years after the transplantation surgery.
source: SNM
12.29.2009
Physiologic Factors Linked to Image Quality of Multi-Detector Computed Tomography Scans
A large multicenter international trial found that the image quality of multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) scans, used for the noninvasive detection of coronary artery disease, can be significantly affected by patient characteristics such as ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), and heart rate, according to a study in the January issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology.
The large multicenter international trial study included 291 patients with coronary artery calcification and found that compared with examinations of white patients, studies of black patients had significantly poorer image quality.
“Physiologic factors such as high heart rate, arrhythmia, obesity, and high coronary calcium burden with motion continue to limit the diagnostic accuracy of MDCT as compared with conventional invasive coronary angiography. Our study is significant because we found a relevant influence of BMI, heart rate, ethnicity, and breathing artifact on the degradation of image quality,” said Melvin E. Clouse, MD, lead author of the study.
MDCT scans have been implemented in a variety of patients with suspected coronary artery disease because of its diagnostic accuracy and reliability. However “the diagnostic ability of any imaging method is directly dependent on image quality,” said Clouse.
“With this new knowledge combined with new and advanced CT scanners, we have the potential to improve image quality of coronary CT angiography, further making the test even more accurate and independent of patient characteristics,” he said.
source: ARRS
The large multicenter international trial study included 291 patients with coronary artery calcification and found that compared with examinations of white patients, studies of black patients had significantly poorer image quality.
“Physiologic factors such as high heart rate, arrhythmia, obesity, and high coronary calcium burden with motion continue to limit the diagnostic accuracy of MDCT as compared with conventional invasive coronary angiography. Our study is significant because we found a relevant influence of BMI, heart rate, ethnicity, and breathing artifact on the degradation of image quality,” said Melvin E. Clouse, MD, lead author of the study.
MDCT scans have been implemented in a variety of patients with suspected coronary artery disease because of its diagnostic accuracy and reliability. However “the diagnostic ability of any imaging method is directly dependent on image quality,” said Clouse.
“With this new knowledge combined with new and advanced CT scanners, we have the potential to improve image quality of coronary CT angiography, further making the test even more accurate and independent of patient characteristics,” he said.
source: ARRS
12.19.2009
Cat Scan Radiation Exposure and Cancer Risks
Several recent articles in he Archives of Internal Medicine outline the rapidly growing concerns about cancer risk and radiation exposure from CT scans. Each day there are over 19,500 Cat Scans performed in the U.S. With each scan the patient is exposed to the equivalent of 30 - 443 chest x-rays.
Smith-Bindman and colleagues3 collected actual data on radiation dosages for the most commonly used CT scans at 4 institutions in the San Francisco Bay area in California in 2008. They found a surprising variation in radiation dose—a mean 13-fold variation between the highest and lowest dose for each CT type studied (range, 6- to 22-fold difference across study types). The investigators found a median effective dose of 22 mSv from a typical Cat Scan coronary angiogram and 31 mSv for a multiphase abdomen-pelvis CT scan. At one institution, exposure was a staggering 90 mSv for a multiphase abdomen-pelvis CT scan.
Even the median doses are 4 times higher than they are supposed to be, according to the currently quoted radiation dose for these tests. Just 1 CT coronary angiogram, on average, delivers the equivalent of 309 chest radiographs. From their data, Smith-Bindman et al3 estimated the risk of cancer, taking into consideration age, sex, and study type. By their calculations, 1 in every 270 forty-year-old women undergoing a CT coronary angiogram will develop cancer from the procedure.
In a second study, Berrington de González and colleagues2 determined CT scan use frequency using data from a large commercial insurance database, Medicare claims data, and IMV Medical Information Division survey data. They estimated there were 72 million CT scans performed in 2007. Excluding scans conducted after a diagnosis of cancer and those performed in the last 5 years of life, Berrington de González et al2 projected 29 000 excess cancers as a result of the Cat Scans scans done in 2007. These cancers will appear in the next 20 to 30 years and by the authors' estimates, at a 50% mortality rate, will cause approximately 15 000 deaths annually.
In other words, 15 000 persons may die as a direct result of CT scans physicians had ordered in 2007 alone. Presumably, as the number of Cat Scans scans increase from the 2007 rate, the number of excess cancers also will increase. In light of these data, physicians (and their patients) cannot be complacent about the hazards of radiation or we risk creating a public health time bomb.
Smith-Bindman and colleagues3 collected actual data on radiation dosages for the most commonly used CT scans at 4 institutions in the San Francisco Bay area in California in 2008. They found a surprising variation in radiation dose—a mean 13-fold variation between the highest and lowest dose for each CT type studied (range, 6- to 22-fold difference across study types). The investigators found a median effective dose of 22 mSv from a typical Cat Scan coronary angiogram and 31 mSv for a multiphase abdomen-pelvis CT scan. At one institution, exposure was a staggering 90 mSv for a multiphase abdomen-pelvis CT scan.
Even the median doses are 4 times higher than they are supposed to be, according to the currently quoted radiation dose for these tests. Just 1 CT coronary angiogram, on average, delivers the equivalent of 309 chest radiographs. From their data, Smith-Bindman et al3 estimated the risk of cancer, taking into consideration age, sex, and study type. By their calculations, 1 in every 270 forty-year-old women undergoing a CT coronary angiogram will develop cancer from the procedure.
In a second study, Berrington de González and colleagues2 determined CT scan use frequency using data from a large commercial insurance database, Medicare claims data, and IMV Medical Information Division survey data. They estimated there were 72 million CT scans performed in 2007. Excluding scans conducted after a diagnosis of cancer and those performed in the last 5 years of life, Berrington de González et al2 projected 29 000 excess cancers as a result of the Cat Scans scans done in 2007. These cancers will appear in the next 20 to 30 years and by the authors' estimates, at a 50% mortality rate, will cause approximately 15 000 deaths annually.
In other words, 15 000 persons may die as a direct result of CT scans physicians had ordered in 2007 alone. Presumably, as the number of Cat Scans scans increase from the 2007 rate, the number of excess cancers also will increase. In light of these data, physicians (and their patients) cannot be complacent about the hazards of radiation or we risk creating a public health time bomb.
12.16.2009
New MRI Safety Risk For Patients With Pacemakers Identified By FDA Researchers
FDA researchers have found that certain cardiac pacemakers may inadequately stimulate a patient's heart while undergoing a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan due to the magnetic pulses mixing with the electronic pulses from the pacemaker. This inadequate stimulation is potentially dangerous for the patient undergoing the MRI scan, according to research published in BioMed Central's open access journal BioMedical Engineering Online.
MRI is an imaging technique that uses a magnetic field instead of ionizing radiation to produce a detailed image of internal body structures. MRI systems expose patients to very strong magnetic fields that can interfere with implanted cardiac pacemakers. Physicians are instructed by pacemaker manufacturers and MRI system manufacturers not to expose patients with pacemakers to MRI scans. MRI can damage the pacemaker's electronic system and cause burning of heart tissue at the tip of the pacemaker lead, due to an increase in temperature from the MRI. Both risks can result in incorrect or absent stimulation from the pacemaker.
source: Medical News Today
MRI is an imaging technique that uses a magnetic field instead of ionizing radiation to produce a detailed image of internal body structures. MRI systems expose patients to very strong magnetic fields that can interfere with implanted cardiac pacemakers. Physicians are instructed by pacemaker manufacturers and MRI system manufacturers not to expose patients with pacemakers to MRI scans. MRI can damage the pacemaker's electronic system and cause burning of heart tissue at the tip of the pacemaker lead, due to an increase in temperature from the MRI. Both risks can result in incorrect or absent stimulation from the pacemaker.
source: Medical News Today
12.14.2009
Studies quantify radiation doses, cancer risks from CT scans
Doses of radiation from commonly performed computed tomography (CT) scans vary widely, appear higher than generally believed and may contribute to an estimated tens of thousands of future cancer cases, according to two reports in the December 14/28 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.
CT scans have become increasingly common in the United States—about 70 million were performed in 2007, up from 3 million in 1980, according to background information in one of the articles. "While CT scans can provide great medical benefits, there is concern about potential future cancer risks because they involve much higher radiation doses than conventional diagnostic X-rays," the authors of one report write. For example, a chest CT scan exposes the patient to more than 100 times the radiation dose of a routine chest X-ray. "The risks to individuals are likely to be small, but because of the large number of persons exposed annually, even small risks could translate into a considerable number of future cancers."
It is important to understand how much radiation medical imaging delivers to help balance benefits and risks, the authors note. In one paper, Rebecca Smith-Bindman, M.D., of the University of California, San Francisco, and colleagues studied 1,119 patients undergoing the 11 most common types of diagnostic CT scans at four area institutions in 2008. Using hospital records, they calculated the radiation dosage involved with each scan and then estimated lifetime risks of cancer that could be attributed to those scans.
Radiation dosage varied widely between different types of CT studies; median (midpoint) doses ranged from 2 millisieverts for a routine head CT scan to 31 millisieverts for a multiphase abdomen and pelvis scan. "Within each type of CT study, effective dose varied significantly within and across institutions, with a mean [average] 13-fold variation between the highest and lowest dose for each study type," the authors write.
The estimated number of CT scans that would lead to the development of one cancer case also varied by type of CT scan and also by each patient's age and sex.
source: Eurekalert
CT scans have become increasingly common in the United States—about 70 million were performed in 2007, up from 3 million in 1980, according to background information in one of the articles. "While CT scans can provide great medical benefits, there is concern about potential future cancer risks because they involve much higher radiation doses than conventional diagnostic X-rays," the authors of one report write. For example, a chest CT scan exposes the patient to more than 100 times the radiation dose of a routine chest X-ray. "The risks to individuals are likely to be small, but because of the large number of persons exposed annually, even small risks could translate into a considerable number of future cancers."
It is important to understand how much radiation medical imaging delivers to help balance benefits and risks, the authors note. In one paper, Rebecca Smith-Bindman, M.D., of the University of California, San Francisco, and colleagues studied 1,119 patients undergoing the 11 most common types of diagnostic CT scans at four area institutions in 2008. Using hospital records, they calculated the radiation dosage involved with each scan and then estimated lifetime risks of cancer that could be attributed to those scans.
Radiation dosage varied widely between different types of CT studies; median (midpoint) doses ranged from 2 millisieverts for a routine head CT scan to 31 millisieverts for a multiphase abdomen and pelvis scan. "Within each type of CT study, effective dose varied significantly within and across institutions, with a mean [average] 13-fold variation between the highest and lowest dose for each study type," the authors write.
The estimated number of CT scans that would lead to the development of one cancer case also varied by type of CT scan and also by each patient's age and sex.
source: Eurekalert
Variable Doses of Radiation Raise Safety Concerns for CT Procedures
Radiation doses from common CT procedures vary widely and are higher than generally thought, raising concerns about increased risk for cancer, according to a new study led by University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) imaging specialists.
San Francisco, CA (Vocus/PRWEB ) December 14, 2009 -- Radiation doses from common CT procedures vary widely and are higher than generally thought, raising concerns about increased risk for cancer, according to a new study led by University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) imaging specialists.
In day-to-day clinical practice, we found significant variation in the radiation doses for the same type of computed tomography procedures within institutions and across institutions," said lead investigator Rebecca Smith-Bindman, MD, a professor of radiology at UCSF. Our results highlight the need for greater standardization because this is a medical safety issue."
Computed tomography imaging, known as CT, is a diagnostic procedure that uses special x-ray equipment to obtain cross-sectional pictures of the body that provide detailed images of organs, bones, and other tissues. CT is associated with higher radiation exposure than conventional x-rays, yet radiation dosages that patients receive from the newer CT scanners have gone largely unregulated, according to Smith-Bindman, who also is a UCSF professor of epidemiology and biostatistics and obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences.
Our study provides some initial data documenting the doses that patients receive when they undergo actual CT examinations and this is different than the doses when phantoms-- sophisticated plastic models typically used to quantify CT scanner dose-- are used. We believe documenting the actual doses that patients are exposed to is the first step to reducing those doses and any attendant risk," she emphasized.
complete article: PR Web
San Francisco, CA (Vocus/PRWEB ) December 14, 2009 -- Radiation doses from common CT procedures vary widely and are higher than generally thought, raising concerns about increased risk for cancer, according to a new study led by University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) imaging specialists.
In day-to-day clinical practice, we found significant variation in the radiation doses for the same type of computed tomography procedures within institutions and across institutions," said lead investigator Rebecca Smith-Bindman, MD, a professor of radiology at UCSF. Our results highlight the need for greater standardization because this is a medical safety issue."
Computed tomography imaging, known as CT, is a diagnostic procedure that uses special x-ray equipment to obtain cross-sectional pictures of the body that provide detailed images of organs, bones, and other tissues. CT is associated with higher radiation exposure than conventional x-rays, yet radiation dosages that patients receive from the newer CT scanners have gone largely unregulated, according to Smith-Bindman, who also is a UCSF professor of epidemiology and biostatistics and obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences.
Our study provides some initial data documenting the doses that patients receive when they undergo actual CT examinations and this is different than the doses when phantoms-- sophisticated plastic models typically used to quantify CT scanner dose-- are used. We believe documenting the actual doses that patients are exposed to is the first step to reducing those doses and any attendant risk," she emphasized.
complete article: PR Web
12.13.2009
Repligen Reports Phase 3 Clinical Trial Results of RG1068 in Pancreatic Imaging
WALTHAM, MA - December 9, 2009 - Repligen Corporation (NASDAQ: RGEN) reported today top-line results from a Phase 3 clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of RG1068, synthetic human secretin, to improve magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pancreas in patients with a history of pancreatitis. The study's co-primary endpoints were improvements in sensitivity of detection of structural abnormalities of the pancreatic ducts using RG1068 in combination with MRI compared to MRI alone with minimal loss in specificity (<7.5%). The study design used endoscopy as the standard for determination of structural abnormalities. The predetermined criteria for a successful study were achievement of a statistically significant improvement in sensitivity with minimal loss in specificity from two of the three central radiologists reading the MRI images. In this study, one radiologist achieved a statistically significant improvement in sensitivity with RG1068 (p<0.001) while a second radiologist showed a trend but did not achieve statistical significance (p=0.088). There was minimal loss in specificity for all radiologists. While it was not a pre-specified endpoint, pooled data from all three radiologists resulted in a statistically significant improvement in sensitivity with RG1068 (p=0.005) with minimal loss in specificity.
source: Repligen
source: Repligen
12.11.2009
MRI Detects Breast Cancer at Earlier Stage
SAN ANTONIO - Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) coupled with mammography detects almost all cancers at an early stage, thereby reducing the incidence of advanced stage breast cancer in high-risk women.
"Earlier stage breast cancers are more likely to be curable," said lead researcher Ellen Warner, M.D., M.Sc., medical oncologist in the Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center, in Toronto, Canada.
"We can be fairly confident that if screening with MRI finds cancers at a much earlier stage, it probably also saves lives," added Warner, who presented details of these results at the CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, held Dec. 9-13.
The researchers separated 1,275 women at high risk for breast cancer into two groups: One group was screened with MRI plus mammography, and the second, a control group, received conventional screening by mammography. Participants had the defective BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, which suggests a very high lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.
Warner and colleagues followed the women over several years to determine which screening method detected cancer at a significantly earlier stage.
source: AACR
"Earlier stage breast cancers are more likely to be curable," said lead researcher Ellen Warner, M.D., M.Sc., medical oncologist in the Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center, in Toronto, Canada.
"We can be fairly confident that if screening with MRI finds cancers at a much earlier stage, it probably also saves lives," added Warner, who presented details of these results at the CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, held Dec. 9-13.
The researchers separated 1,275 women at high risk for breast cancer into two groups: One group was screened with MRI plus mammography, and the second, a control group, received conventional screening by mammography. Participants had the defective BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, which suggests a very high lifetime risk of developing breast cancer.
Warner and colleagues followed the women over several years to determine which screening method detected cancer at a significantly earlier stage.
source: AACR
12.09.2009
CT Brain Perfusion Scans Safety Investigation: Initial Notification
[UPDATED 12/07/2009] The FDA, working with state and local health authorities, has identified at least 50 additional patients who were exposed to excess radiation of up to eight times the expected level during their CT perfusion scans. These cases so far involve more than one manufacturer of CT scanners. Some of these patients reported hair loss or skin redness following their scans. High doses of radiation can cause cataracts and increase the risk of some forms of cancer.
On the basis of its investigation to date, the FDA is providing interim recommendations for imaging facilities, radiologists, and radiologic technologists to help prevent additional cases of excess exposure.
These recommendations include:
* Facilities assess whether patients who underwent CT perfusion scans received excess radiation.
* Facilities review their radiation dosing protocols for all CT perfusion studies to ensure that the correct dosing is planned for each study.
* Facilities implement quality control procedures to ensure that dosing protocols are followed every time and the planned amount of radiation is administered.
* Radiologic technologists check the CT scanner display panel before performing a study to make sure the amount of radiation to be delivered is at the appropriate level for the individual patient.
* If more than one study is performed on a patient during one imaging session, practitioners should adjust the dose of radiation so it is appropriate for each study.
source: FDA
On the basis of its investigation to date, the FDA is providing interim recommendations for imaging facilities, radiologists, and radiologic technologists to help prevent additional cases of excess exposure.
These recommendations include:
* Facilities assess whether patients who underwent CT perfusion scans received excess radiation.
* Facilities review their radiation dosing protocols for all CT perfusion studies to ensure that the correct dosing is planned for each study.
* Facilities implement quality control procedures to ensure that dosing protocols are followed every time and the planned amount of radiation is administered.
* Radiologic technologists check the CT scanner display panel before performing a study to make sure the amount of radiation to be delivered is at the appropriate level for the individual patient.
* If more than one study is performed on a patient during one imaging session, practitioners should adjust the dose of radiation so it is appropriate for each study.
source: FDA
12.07.2009
CT Imaging Taken Post Avastin May Predict Survival in Patients With Metastatic Colorectal Cancer
ScienceDaily (Dec. 2, 2009) — Using routine computed tomography (CT) imaging to analyze form and structural changes to colorectal liver metastasis after bevacizumab and chemotherapy may predict overall survival, according to research from The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
The findings are published in the Dec. 2 issue of JAMA.
When combined with chemotherapy, the angiogenesis inhibitor bevacizumab, also known as Avastin, is associated with both improved survival in those with metastatic colorectal cancer and higher rates of pathologic response in patients undergoing surgical resection of colorectal liver metastases. The monoclonal antibody was approved for use in the front line setting of metastatic colorectal cancer in 2004.
However, the therapy presents a unique set of challenges, explains Jean-Nicolas Vauthey, M.D., professor in M. D. Anderson's Department of Surgical Oncology.
source: Science Daily Release
The findings are published in the Dec. 2 issue of JAMA.
When combined with chemotherapy, the angiogenesis inhibitor bevacizumab, also known as Avastin, is associated with both improved survival in those with metastatic colorectal cancer and higher rates of pathologic response in patients undergoing surgical resection of colorectal liver metastases. The monoclonal antibody was approved for use in the front line setting of metastatic colorectal cancer in 2004.
However, the therapy presents a unique set of challenges, explains Jean-Nicolas Vauthey, M.D., professor in M. D. Anderson's Department of Surgical Oncology.
source: Science Daily Release
12.05.2009
Smart Phones Allow Quick Diagnosis of Acute Appendicitis
CHICAGO — Radiologists can accurately diagnose acute appendicitis from a remote location with the use of a handheld device or mobile phone equipped with special software, according to a study presented today at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
"The goal is to improve the speed and accuracy of medical diagnoses, as well as to improve communications among different consulting physicians," said the study's lead author, Asim F. Choudhri, M.D., fellow physician in the Division of Neuroradiology at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. "When we can make these determinations earlier, the appropriate surgical teams and equipment can be assembled before the surgeon even has the chance to examine the patient."
Appendicitis, or inflammation and infection of the appendix, is a medical emergency requiring surgical removal of the organ. Undiagnosed or left untreated, the inflamed appendix will rupture, causing toxins to spill into the abdominal cavity and potentially causing a life-threatening infection. Appendicitis can occur at any age but is most common in people between the ages of 10 and 30, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Typically, a patient arriving at the emergency room with suspected appendicitis will undergo computed tomography (CT) and a physical examination. If a radiologist is not immediately available to interpret the CT images or if consultation with a specialist is needed, diagnosis is delayed, increasing the risk of rupture. Transmitting the images over a mobile device allows for instant consultation and diagnosis from a remote location. It can also aid in surgical planning.
"This new technology can expedite diagnosis and, therefore, treatment," Dr. Choudhri said.
For the study performed at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, CT examinations of the abdomen and pelvis of 25 patients with pain in the right lower abdomen were reviewed over an encrypted wireless network by five radiologists using an iPhone G3 equipped with OsiriX Mobile medical image viewing software. All of the patients had surgical confirmation or follow-up evaluations to confirm whether or not they had appendicitis.
source: RSNA News Release
"The goal is to improve the speed and accuracy of medical diagnoses, as well as to improve communications among different consulting physicians," said the study's lead author, Asim F. Choudhri, M.D., fellow physician in the Division of Neuroradiology at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. "When we can make these determinations earlier, the appropriate surgical teams and equipment can be assembled before the surgeon even has the chance to examine the patient."
Appendicitis, or inflammation and infection of the appendix, is a medical emergency requiring surgical removal of the organ. Undiagnosed or left untreated, the inflamed appendix will rupture, causing toxins to spill into the abdominal cavity and potentially causing a life-threatening infection. Appendicitis can occur at any age but is most common in people between the ages of 10 and 30, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Typically, a patient arriving at the emergency room with suspected appendicitis will undergo computed tomography (CT) and a physical examination. If a radiologist is not immediately available to interpret the CT images or if consultation with a specialist is needed, diagnosis is delayed, increasing the risk of rupture. Transmitting the images over a mobile device allows for instant consultation and diagnosis from a remote location. It can also aid in surgical planning.
"This new technology can expedite diagnosis and, therefore, treatment," Dr. Choudhri said.
For the study performed at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, CT examinations of the abdomen and pelvis of 25 patients with pain in the right lower abdomen were reviewed over an encrypted wireless network by five radiologists using an iPhone G3 equipped with OsiriX Mobile medical image viewing software. All of the patients had surgical confirmation or follow-up evaluations to confirm whether or not they had appendicitis.
source: RSNA News Release
12.03.2009
RevMed Successfully Introduces MRI Product Suite at Radiology Society of North America Conference
CHARLESTON, SC--(Marketwire - December 3, 2009) - Revolutions Medical Corporation ("RevMed" or the "Company") (OTCBB: RMCP), producers of the RevVac safety syringe, RevColor, RevDisplay and Rev3D MRI Technology, today announced that it introduced its proprietary suite of MRI software products at this week's Radiology Society of North America (RSNA) annual meeting with great success. Radiologists and universities world-wide received presentations at the RMCP booth. A number of these contacts could play an important role in the Company's ongoing efforts to clinically validate specific applications of its MRI tools prior to the 2010 commercial launch.
"I could not be more pleased about the overwhelming interest that our MRI tools generated at this first introduction of our technology, and moreover at the premier imaging conference in the world," stated RevMed CEO Ron Wheet. "Introducing our proprietary MRI product offering at this conference was a dramatic step forward to commercialization in 2010. Radiologists immediately understood the utility of our products. Universities, OEM and VAR providers requested follow-up discussions regarding clinical collaboration. They also want to explore delivery options, i.e. embedding our product content into their existing commercially available products. Timely hot topics at the show included MRI analysis in breast disease, and brain abnormalities such as the depth of injury in concussion (as reported by the NFL); these led to discussions as to how our unique MRI color software would aid in image analysis, thereby enhancing diagnostic confidence in an entirely different way."
source: MarketWire
"I could not be more pleased about the overwhelming interest that our MRI tools generated at this first introduction of our technology, and moreover at the premier imaging conference in the world," stated RevMed CEO Ron Wheet. "Introducing our proprietary MRI product offering at this conference was a dramatic step forward to commercialization in 2010. Radiologists immediately understood the utility of our products. Universities, OEM and VAR providers requested follow-up discussions regarding clinical collaboration. They also want to explore delivery options, i.e. embedding our product content into their existing commercially available products. Timely hot topics at the show included MRI analysis in breast disease, and brain abnormalities such as the depth of injury in concussion (as reported by the NFL); these led to discussions as to how our unique MRI color software would aid in image analysis, thereby enhancing diagnostic confidence in an entirely different way."
source: MarketWire
12.01.2009
Unindicated CT Series Result in Unnecessary Radiation Exposure for Patients
CHICAGO, Nov. 30 /PRNewswire/ -- A large proportion of patients who undergo abdominal/pelvic computed tomography (CT) receive unindicated and unnecessary additional image acquisition resulting in excess, avoidable radiation exposure, according to a study presented today at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
"It is the responsibility of all physicians who work with ionizing radiation to ensure that the dosage is as low as reasonably achievable without compromising the patient's well being," said Kristie Guite, M.D., radiology resident at the University of Wisconsin (UW) in Madison. "Our study found that this principle is not being followed in many practices."
A CT examination consists of imaging the patient using a CT scanner and sometimes involves the injection of an intravenous contrast agent. Imaging can be performed at multiple time points before and/or after the injection of the contrast material. Each image acquisition is referred to as a "series." Although having multiple series can be helpful for some conditions, they are not generally necessary.
Because it provides valuable diagnostic information, CT use has risen rapidly. In recent years, a number of reports have highlighted the increasing radiation exposure to patients through the use of medical imaging, particularly CT. While these reports have often focused on general and screening uses, little attention has been paid to radiation from additional series, including routine non-contrast or delayed-phase CT, which may or may not be indicated by the patient's condition but are sometimes performed so that nothing is overlooked.
To determine the frequency of unindicated additional scanning and the resultant excess radiation exposure to patients, the researchers reviewed the appropriateness and radiation dose of abdomen and pelvis CT exams for 500 patients performed at outside institutions and submitted to UW - Madison for interpretation. The patients ranged in age from nine months to 91 years, with most between 30 and 50 years old.
"
complete article
"It is the responsibility of all physicians who work with ionizing radiation to ensure that the dosage is as low as reasonably achievable without compromising the patient's well being," said Kristie Guite, M.D., radiology resident at the University of Wisconsin (UW) in Madison. "Our study found that this principle is not being followed in many practices."
A CT examination consists of imaging the patient using a CT scanner and sometimes involves the injection of an intravenous contrast agent. Imaging can be performed at multiple time points before and/or after the injection of the contrast material. Each image acquisition is referred to as a "series." Although having multiple series can be helpful for some conditions, they are not generally necessary.
Because it provides valuable diagnostic information, CT use has risen rapidly. In recent years, a number of reports have highlighted the increasing radiation exposure to patients through the use of medical imaging, particularly CT. While these reports have often focused on general and screening uses, little attention has been paid to radiation from additional series, including routine non-contrast or delayed-phase CT, which may or may not be indicated by the patient's condition but are sometimes performed so that nothing is overlooked.
To determine the frequency of unindicated additional scanning and the resultant excess radiation exposure to patients, the researchers reviewed the appropriateness and radiation dose of abdomen and pelvis CT exams for 500 patients performed at outside institutions and submitted to UW - Madison for interpretation. The patients ranged in age from nine months to 91 years, with most between 30 and 50 years old.
"
complete article
11.29.2009
Toshiba Showcases Patient-Friendly 3T MR System
CHICAGO - (Business Wire) Understanding that claustrophobia and acoustic noise are the top patient complaints with 3T MR imaging today, Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc., has developed a comfortable and efficient 3T MR, the Vantage Titan™ 3T open bore MR. Toshiba’s Vantage Titan 3T is pending 510k clearance and will be showcased at this year’s Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) annual meeting, held in Chicago, Nov. 29 – Dec. 4 (Booth #5629, South Hall).
The Vantage Titan 3T MR combines Toshiba’s commitment to patients and customers with the power of additional diagnostic capabilities, making it a comfortable and efficient 3T MR system. Its patient-centered technology improves the exam experience, resulting in better patient compliance and more streamlined exams to improve the delivery of care.
Benefits of the Vantage Titan 3T open bore MR include Increased Patient Comfort
Toshiba’s patient-friendly features make the Vantage Titan 3T MR comfortable. The system includes Toshiba’s exclusive Pianissimo™ noise-reduction technology, which reduces exam noise by up to 90 percent, making the Vantage Titan 3T the quietest available. Additionally, the Vantage Titan 3T boasts a 71 cm opening, giving patients more room and reducing claustrophobia, another concern facing the 3T MR market.
The system also incorporates the ability to perform contrast-free MRA exams, including Fresh Blood Imaging (FBI) for evaluating peripheral vascular diseases of the lower legs and extremities; Contrast-free Improved Angiography (CIA) for easier visualization of smaller vessels; Time-Spatial Labeling Inversion Pulse (Time-SLIP) for evaluating hemodynamic, functional assessments and visualization of vascular structures; and Time and Space Angiography (TSA) to create non-contrast time-resolved imaging with high temporal resolution. Toshiba is the only imaging vendor to offer advanced contrast-free MRA techniques.
source: Toshiba
The Vantage Titan 3T MR combines Toshiba’s commitment to patients and customers with the power of additional diagnostic capabilities, making it a comfortable and efficient 3T MR system. Its patient-centered technology improves the exam experience, resulting in better patient compliance and more streamlined exams to improve the delivery of care.
Benefits of the Vantage Titan 3T open bore MR include Increased Patient Comfort
Toshiba’s patient-friendly features make the Vantage Titan 3T MR comfortable. The system includes Toshiba’s exclusive Pianissimo™ noise-reduction technology, which reduces exam noise by up to 90 percent, making the Vantage Titan 3T the quietest available. Additionally, the Vantage Titan 3T boasts a 71 cm opening, giving patients more room and reducing claustrophobia, another concern facing the 3T MR market.
The system also incorporates the ability to perform contrast-free MRA exams, including Fresh Blood Imaging (FBI) for evaluating peripheral vascular diseases of the lower legs and extremities; Contrast-free Improved Angiography (CIA) for easier visualization of smaller vessels; Time-Spatial Labeling Inversion Pulse (Time-SLIP) for evaluating hemodynamic, functional assessments and visualization of vascular structures; and Time and Space Angiography (TSA) to create non-contrast time-resolved imaging with high temporal resolution. Toshiba is the only imaging vendor to offer advanced contrast-free MRA techniques.
source: Toshiba
11.25.2009
GE Healthcare Introduces Novel Device To Detect Tissue Stiffness
WAUKESHA, Wis.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--GE Healthcare today introduced MR-Touch, a visual palpation technology that uses low frequency sound waves in combination with MRI to measure tissue elasticity. For centuries, clinicians have evaluated tissue stiffness—the physical property of tissue most affected by disease—through palpation. Based on technology invented at Mayo Clinic (Rochester, MN) and licensed to GE Healthcare, MR Touch extends the principles of palpation with a precise, non-invasive, cost-effective way to evaluate tissue stiffness.
Recently FDA cleared, MR-Touch is a certified healthymagination product and has been third-party validated to reduce costs and increase the quality of healthcare. GE Healthcare will also feature MR-Touch at the annual meeting of the Radiologic Society of North America (RSNA), booth #4029, at Chicago’s McCormick Place from November 29-December 4, 2009.
“GE is proud to be the first to offer technology that has the potential to fundamentally improve the way disease is detected, monitored and understood,” said Jim Davis, General Manager of Global MR, GE Healthcare. “MR-Touch is a clear reflection of our healthymagination vision and underscores the importance of breakthrough innovation to delivering the highest level of patient care.”
source: Business Wire
Recently FDA cleared, MR-Touch is a certified healthymagination product and has been third-party validated to reduce costs and increase the quality of healthcare. GE Healthcare will also feature MR-Touch at the annual meeting of the Radiologic Society of North America (RSNA), booth #4029, at Chicago’s McCormick Place from November 29-December 4, 2009.
“GE is proud to be the first to offer technology that has the potential to fundamentally improve the way disease is detected, monitored and understood,” said Jim Davis, General Manager of Global MR, GE Healthcare. “MR-Touch is a clear reflection of our healthymagination vision and underscores the importance of breakthrough innovation to delivering the highest level of patient care.”
source: Business Wire
11.23.2009
Medical Imaging Technique Identifies Very Common Condition in Women That Often Goes Undiagnosed
In women with lower urinary tract symptoms, a medical imaging technique called dynamic MRI allows clinicians to diagnose pelvic organ prolapse — a condition that often goes undiagnosed on static MRI and at physical examination, according to a study published in the December issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology.
Pelvic organ prolapse is relatively common and occurs when the pelvic floor muscles become weak or damaged and can no longer support the pelvic organs. If left untreated, living with prolapse can be a challenge, both physically and emotionally, as the symptoms can disrupt day-to-day life. Dynamic MRI is performed while the patient performs a straining maneuver, such as bearing down. Static MRI is performed while the patient is at rest.
The study, performed at NYU Langone Medical Center in New York, included 84 women with lower urinary tract symptoms who underwent dynamic and static MRI scans for a suspected urethra abnormality. Ten of the 84 patients were found to have an abnormality of the urethra. “However 33 patients were diagnosed with pelvic organ prolapse, of whom 29 were diagnosed exclusively on dynamic imaging,” said Genevieve L. Bennett, M.D., assistant professor of radiology at NYU Langone Medical Center and lead author of the study.
“Dynamic imaging allows for the detection of pelvic organ prolapse, which may not be evident at rest but only detected when the woman strains,” said Bennett.
source: ARRS
Pelvic organ prolapse is relatively common and occurs when the pelvic floor muscles become weak or damaged and can no longer support the pelvic organs. If left untreated, living with prolapse can be a challenge, both physically and emotionally, as the symptoms can disrupt day-to-day life. Dynamic MRI is performed while the patient performs a straining maneuver, such as bearing down. Static MRI is performed while the patient is at rest.
The study, performed at NYU Langone Medical Center in New York, included 84 women with lower urinary tract symptoms who underwent dynamic and static MRI scans for a suspected urethra abnormality. Ten of the 84 patients were found to have an abnormality of the urethra. “However 33 patients were diagnosed with pelvic organ prolapse, of whom 29 were diagnosed exclusively on dynamic imaging,” said Genevieve L. Bennett, M.D., assistant professor of radiology at NYU Langone Medical Center and lead author of the study.
“Dynamic imaging allows for the detection of pelvic organ prolapse, which may not be evident at rest but only detected when the woman strains,” said Bennett.
source: ARRS
11.21.2009
Simple Blood Test Could Reduce Repeat Breast MRI Scans in Premenopausal Women With Irregular Periods
A simple blood test corresponding to the follicular phase (days 3-14) of a normal menstrual cycle can aid in optimal scheduling of breast MRI exams in premenopausal women with irregular cycles — possibly reducing the number of repeat scans and non-diagnostic tests patients experience and providing clearer images on which doctors make their recommendations, according to a study published in the December issue of the American Journal of Roentgenology.
Research has shown that performing breast MRI scans during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle minimizes breast tissue enhancement. “In practice, many clinicians scan premenopausal women who lack normal menstrual cycles without regard to the timing of their hormonal cycle,” said Richard L. Ellis, M.D., lead author of the study. “This can result in non-diagnostic exams and repeat scans,” he said.
Using what is already known about the menstrual cycle and its effects upon normal breast tissue, Ellis, a radiologist at the Norma J. Vinger Center for Breast Care in Lacrosse, Wis., reasoned that a simple blood test could be used to optimize the timing of breast MRI exams. Blood tests were used to time exams in 11 women with irregular cycles. “None of the breast MRI scans performed in our small group of women resulted in high background enhancement of normal breast tissue requiring a repeat scan,” said Ellis.
“Appropriate timing of a breast MRI examination for premenopausal women who do not have a normal menstrual cycle is a challenge. However, using existing science, we found that a simple blood test to determine a woman’s serum progesterone concentration can aid in optimal timing of breast MRI. This is significant in an ever-increasing population of women requiring or eligible for breast MRI,” said Ellis.
source: ARRS
Research has shown that performing breast MRI scans during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle minimizes breast tissue enhancement. “In practice, many clinicians scan premenopausal women who lack normal menstrual cycles without regard to the timing of their hormonal cycle,” said Richard L. Ellis, M.D., lead author of the study. “This can result in non-diagnostic exams and repeat scans,” he said.
Using what is already known about the menstrual cycle and its effects upon normal breast tissue, Ellis, a radiologist at the Norma J. Vinger Center for Breast Care in Lacrosse, Wis., reasoned that a simple blood test could be used to optimize the timing of breast MRI exams. Blood tests were used to time exams in 11 women with irregular cycles. “None of the breast MRI scans performed in our small group of women resulted in high background enhancement of normal breast tissue requiring a repeat scan,” said Ellis.
“Appropriate timing of a breast MRI examination for premenopausal women who do not have a normal menstrual cycle is a challenge. However, using existing science, we found that a simple blood test to determine a woman’s serum progesterone concentration can aid in optimal timing of breast MRI. This is significant in an ever-increasing population of women requiring or eligible for breast MRI,” said Ellis.
source: ARRS
11.19.2009
In A Flash: New Flash CT Reduces Radiation Dose By Up To 90%
NYU Langone Medical Center is the first hospital in the Northeast to offer one of the world's fastest and most radiation dose efficient computed tomography (CT) scanner. The Siemens SOMATOM Definition Flash can image ten times as fast as other clinical units, with an up to 90% dose reduction in radiation compared to conventional imaging. The scanner's dual source technology allows NYU Langone Medical Center to provide new levels of patient care, especially for trauma, pediatric, cancer and cardiac patients.
"The new CT scanner allows us to produce high quality diagnostic images in the least amount of time and with the least amount of radiation," said Michael Recht, MD, the Louis Marx Professor of Radiology and chair of the Department of Radiology at NYU Langone Medical Center. "NYU Langone Medical Center already offers advanced low-dose technology, but now with Flash CT, we are thrilled to be able to offer our patients some of the most advanced technology in the world, combined with the unmatched expertise of our radiologists."
source: Medical News Today
"The new CT scanner allows us to produce high quality diagnostic images in the least amount of time and with the least amount of radiation," said Michael Recht, MD, the Louis Marx Professor of Radiology and chair of the Department of Radiology at NYU Langone Medical Center. "NYU Langone Medical Center already offers advanced low-dose technology, but now with Flash CT, we are thrilled to be able to offer our patients some of the most advanced technology in the world, combined with the unmatched expertise of our radiologists."
source: Medical News Today
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
