View new technologies from RSNA 2009

RSNA Gives Prognosis on Imaging's Future

If the new imaging systems introduced at RSNA are indicators of widespread technology adoption, then we know from this year’s show that 3.0 Tesla MR has definitively moved beyond research centers and into the clinical setting. There were several introductions of new 3.0 Tesla MR systems designed to increase productivity and simplify complex techniques such as contrast MR and MR angiography.

Attendees also saw how advances in image fusion are optimizing diagnostic and therapeutic imaging in the interventional lab. The new hybrid interventional suite will feature live fluoroscopy images synchronized with previously acquired MRA/CTA datasets for image guidance during procedures.

Multiple applications for elastography were also on hand, whether as an adjunct breast screening tool on an ultrasound system or as a new device for identifying tumors in the liver.

Another resounding theme was cloud-hosted data services, which are creating a paradigm shift in the way the medical imaging community exchanges and shares information with referring physicians, specialists and surgeons. This year’s “Document Sharing Focus at RSNA 2009 IHE Demonstration” presented cross-enterprise document sharing (XDS-I) as the profile for medical image exchange, a profile which the U.S. Health Information Technology Standards Panel (HITSP) has adopted. In the demo, PACS showed how driving images to the EHR and enabling patient and provider access to radiology images and reports eliminates redundant studies, reduces exposure to radiation and gains workflow efficiencies. The demonstration was the perfect segue way into 2010 when the U.S. government launches its $20 billion initiative to expand health information technology and achieve a nationwide EHR.

Contact Imaging Technology News Editor Cristen Bolan at cbolan@sgcmail.com

Thanks,

Cristen