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The Cutting Edge of Cardiac Imaging
The annual RSNA meeting is the largest radiology show in the world and it highlights the newest imaging technology in all specialties, including cardiology. Among the highlights for cardiology were dose lowering technologies for CT, several new cardio-PACS, and new innovations in cath lab imaging.
The biggest of the cath lab advances were two systems introduced by Philips Healthcare. It showcased a system that offers live measurement of dose for each clinician on a monitor. As clinicians enter the radiation field, the system alerts staff so they can take precautions to limit their exposure.
Philips also introduced a hybrid, fusion imaging system to match CT or MR images with live fluoro, which can be rotated on any axis to get a 3D view of the anatomy. The system is based on technology Philips acquired this past year with the purchase of Traxtal. I highlighted Traxtal following RSNA 2008 as technology to watch, because of its potential to aid 3D percutaneous guidance. Philips is now leveraging the technology to expand fusion imaging guidance with both its ultrasound and angiography systems. While the system is currently aimed at interventional radiologists, Philips said the technology will have applications in interventional cardiology and EP procedures.
GE Healthcare introduced a similar fusion imaging system for biopsy needle guidance at RSNA 2008. This year the system was incorporated into a showcase of options for the company's cath lab installations. GE also announced a new partnership with Veran at RSNA to create a cath lab fusion image navigation system.
The technological focus of the show has largely shifted from imaging modalities to the information technology (IT) systems needed to store and transfer images and their associated reports. The lines between pure PACS, radiology and cardiovascular reporting, echo management, ECG management and hemodynamic reporting is becoming increasingly blurred as they are merged into single systems.
For more product news from the show, visit our RSNA FastPass Web site.
Contact Dave Fornell at dfornell@sgcmail.com
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