The list of offerings at the 91st Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA of Oak Brook, Ill)—November 27–December 2 in Chicago—is a long one. However, while certification courses, scientific publications, and vendor displays are the principal draw, the inherent networking opportunities are invaluable. Attendees will put names to faces and build new relationships while strengthening others.

"The meeting has grown from a product showcase to a ‘concept' show, providing a glimpse into the future of radiology—all based on insight from our customers," says John Desch, VP of marketing, North America, for Philips Medical Systems (Andover, Mass). "It also provides more opportunities for us to meet with and listen to our customers."

Ed Misukanis, president of Alpine Solutions (Camarillo, Calif), concurs. "We are very interested in hearing more of what our customers need or how we can help improve our services to them," he says. "We also hope to gain a better knowledge of this market, a better understanding of our competition, and identify new and emerging technologies."

For vendors, interacting with clients feels more like a collaboration than anything else. Although they're always happy to hear what pleases consumers, most manufacturers actually choose to hone in on complaints.

"The best takeaway from RSNA is always the new things I learn from customers," says Ken Rosenfeld, worldwide general manager of the PACS and enterprise archiving software business for Kodak's Health Group (Rochester, NY). "What is going to make [our products] more efficient in delivering radiology services? What new aspects of patient care are creating opportunity or concern?"

Most exhibitors subsequently incorporate this valuable information into the product-development cycle.

"I hope to gain a deeper understanding of the needs of our customers, their barriers to success, and how we can help remove them," says Tim Kulbago, VP of product innovation for Merge Healthcare (Milwaukee). "I always learn something new when I talk to the people who live and breathe RIS/PACS every day."

Another benefit to having manufacturers and clients under one roof? "RSNA is a terrific opportunity for us to personally meet our customers and offer our thanks for their support," says Jeff Axelrod, senior VP of DMS Interim Solutions (Fargo, ND).

What to See

More than 60,000 medical-imaging professionals and corporations will fill the McCormick Place, and many of them are as eager to see what other companies are revealing as they are to showcase their own wares.

"With every RSNA comes high expectations and anticipation of what new technologies will be displayed," says John Allen, senior manager of sales and marketing for Canon Medical (Lake Success, NY). "It is a great opportunity to gain market insight and introduce the latest upgrades to our DR technology."

For those interested in finding out the most recent trends and the direction of the industry, the best tactic might just be to stick to the outside. Smaller companies are often not just on the edge of the show floor, but also on the cutting edge of technology.

"I particularly enjoy walking the periphery of the trade-show floor," says Peter McClennen, president and COO of AMICAS (Boston). "The technology [I see there] correlates particularly well to future trends."

Home Away From Home

The growth of the meeting is welcome by all, but an increase in booths means an increase in competition for the attention of attendees. To stand out from the crowd, exhibitors are focused on supplying answers and information in user-friendly and inviting formats. Presenting access to hands-on demonstrations and personal interactions with products is a common approach—and a priority.

"We provide attendees with the opportunity to try our desk and wall mounts and our wireless-ready computer carts," says Lynn Spieker, senior marketing manager of Healthcare for Ergotron (St Paul, Minn). "They can feel the difference it makes in workflow efficiency." After all, experience is the best teacher.

In fact, after last year's show, the team at GE Healthcare (Waukesha, Wis) wanted a way to distribute information about their products that would ensure no one felt shortchanged. "We are going to have periodic presentations that will go quickly through comprehensive presentations of the Innova new-user interface, 3-D peripheral imaging, and other new features," says Karl Kellar, Americas marketing manager of vascular and interventional imaging for GE Healthcare. "These speakers will be followed by detailed demonstrations of the features on an individual basis for those who want more detail."

Speaking of demonstrations, the folks at Siemens Medical Systems USA (Malvern, Pa) plan to create their own "reality show" at their booth. Clinicians will be placed in a familiar environment to see how the company's solutions handle real-life scenarios. "The booth is designed to show how a patient travels through a hospital experience, so we can simulate the patient experience or the radiologist workflow," says Tom McCausland, president of Siemens Medical.

And, of course, local companies are eager to welcome everyone to both RSNA and Chicago.

"We really try to roll out the red carpet and provide our special brand of Chicago hospitality for our customers who attend from all over the world," says David Kuehn, VP of marketing and sales for Dunlee (Chicago).

The Buzz

Technology is pushing the limits of medical imaging on a daily basis. It's no surprise, then, that the majority of professionals are journeying to the show to take in the latest innovations. For many, the further applications of CT hold particular interest.

"The growth in cardiovascular imaging in 2005 will be a key topic of interest to the medical community in the United States and worldwide," says Douglas Ryan, director of the CT business unit for Toshiba America Medical Systems (Tustin, Calif). "There has been a strategic shift to 16- and 64-slice technology based on clinical requirements, and one of the greatest demands we are seeing is for ongoing workflow enhancements."

All aspects of CT are expanding, including the integration of flat-panel imaging technology with CT exams.

RSNA 2005: Inside the Guide

A Preview of Products: Breast Imaging Cardiology/Angiography CR, DR, Film, and X-Ray CT Furniture Monitors and Displays MRI Nuclear Medicine, PET, and SPECT PACS; RIS; Data Archiving, Storage, and Distribution Printers and Printing Supplies Services Software Ultrasound Other Products Also: What's New at RSNA? Time to Eat!

"I am most eager to see how the various manufacturers are integrating flat-panel imaging detectors into their equipment," says Robert Kluge, president of the X-ray products business at Varian Medical Systems (Palo Alto, Calif). "This is relatively new technology with capabilities that have not been fully explored."

Additionally, the continuous evolution of digital imaging is at the forefront of many attendees' and exhibitors' minds.

"I'm especially eager to see to what extent the radiology market has matured through acceptance of digital imaging and PACS technology," says Kobi Margolin, VP of marketing and business development for NeuroStar Solutions Inc (Atlanta). "Generally speaking, I believe that PACS and digital image acquisition techniques have opened up the potential for a whole new spectrum of applications and services, and the radiology market has yet to tap into them."

Although no one will know the prevailing "hot" topics until the doors close on December 2, recent changes in the industry's corporate players is one sure-to-be-discussed topic. Many are eager to chat with their peers about the impact of recent acquisitions and subsequent consolidations, such as Philips and Stentor, Agfa and Heartlab, and GE Healthcare and IDX Systems.

One guarantee of this year's show is the opportunity it provides for businesses and their markets to come together, partnering to improve the industry. The other certainty is, despite days packed with sessions, exhibits, and countless conversations, it will all be over too fast.

To help you prepare and maximize your time, 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 2616 to say hello. And now...on with the show!

Breast Imaging

Advanced Imaging Technologies (AIT of Richland, Wash). AIT will showcase its holographic ultrasound (HU) technology, through which a "transmitted" wave of ultrasound is combined with holography to gather real-time image information. The HU2400 Breast Imaging System is the first application of this proprietary technology. Designed to address many of the inherent challenges associated with breast cancer detection and diagnosis, the HU2400 safely combines the best features and functions of competing imaging techniques.

Clockwise from top left are a handful of the breast-imaging products that will be on display at RSNA 2005: the MammoPad from BioLucent, the ComfortScan system from DOBI Medical, the 3200S/12K LumaGEM gamma camera from Gamma Medica, the MammoSmart system from DatCard, MammoViewer AVS from Diversified Diagnostic Products, and the Cassi rotational core biopsy device from Sanarus Medical.

Aurora Imaging Technology Inc (North Andover, Mass). The Aurora Dedicated Breast MRI System is a commercially available, FDA-cleared imaging system designed specifically to image breasts with whole-body MRI technology. Designed and optimized specifically for breast imaging, the Aurora operates on WindowsNT with a user-friendly platform.

BioLucent Inc (Aliso Viejo, Calif). The MammoPad is a single-use, FDA-cleared foam cushion that covers the cold, hard surfaces of commercially available mammography equipment. The MammoPad is an innovative way to increase patient comfort during screening without decreasing image quality. Also on display, the MammoPad Select is BioLucent's certification and outreach program for breast centers that provide the MammoPad breast cushion to all women presenting for mammograms. Participating centers are certified as Softer Mammogram Providers and receive a complete marketing and communication program at no additional charge.

DatCard Systems (Irvine, Calif). The new MammoSmart is a new way to provide complete mammography history and breast-care information on an automatically produced CD-R/DVD-R. Once integrated with existing registration, PACS, and RIS/mammography systems, MammoSmart allows facilities to quickly and easily design the look, feel, and content of each CD/DVD.

Diversified Diagnostic Products Inc (Houston). The new MammoViewer AVS provides an economical way to compare last year's films with this year's digital mammograms. Designed with the radiologist's comfort in mind, images are compared using a standard 4-over-4 display, with minimal distance between the upper digital monitors and the lower film viewer—regardless of image size or configuration.

DOBI Medical International (Mahwah, NJ). Stop by the DOBI booth for a look at the ComfortScan system. This noninvasive, nonionizing optical-imaging system assists in the diagnosis and management of breast cancer by providing new, physiology-based images of abnormal vascularization in the breast without X-rays. Premarket approval clinical studies are now under way.

Gamma Medica Inc (Northridge, Calif). Gamma Medica will introduce its most advanced LumaGEM camera, the 3200S/12K. The latest addition to the company's LumaGEM line of breast-imaging systems, the 3200S is a solid-state gamma camera with advanced gamma ray detector technology based on Cadmium Zinc Telluride crystals. An array of more than 12,000 pixels, each just 1.6 x 1.6 mm, is an improvement in spatial resolution in the camera's space bandwidth product. A powerful diagnostic tool, especially for dense breasts, the 3200S attaches to existing upright mammography systems. The camera mounts directly onto the system in place of the film bucky.

Livingston Products Inc (Wheeling, Ill). Effective for both digital and analog mammography machines, Livingston's Advantage paddle allows for flexible personalized tilting compression up to 12° to produce maximum image quality and patient comfort during mammography exams. The uniform compression achieved using the Advantage paddle allows for quality images on large breasts with one exposure, making for improved imaging and superior patient comfort. The paddle can be locked at any tilt angle from 0° to 12°, or left to automatically adjust for individual compression requirements.

Planmed (Helsinki, Finland). Planmed will present Nuance, a full-field digital mammography system for screening and diagnostic mammography. Suitable for any clinical environment, Nuance has its own diagnostic workstation for soft-copy reading and features optional CAD connectivity. Planmed also will demonstrate the Nuance DigiGuide. Small and lightweight, the unit's Side Access feature allows users to move the tube head to the side for optimal patient access, resulting in quick, easy installation of biopsy procedures. Also joining the line is Planmed's Nuance Classic, a mammography system that is truly upgradeable to a direct digital unit.

Sanarus Medical Inc (Pleasanton, Calif). The 2005 MDEA Winner in the Surgical Devices category, Sanarus' Cassi rotational core biopsy device is an automated large-core biopsy device used in the diagnosis of breast disease. This single-patient-use form doesn't require setup or maintenance, enabling breast biopsies in physician offices, and delivering reliable cores without a sizable capital investment. Cassi's patented Stick-Freeze technology uses CO2 to immobilize the target tissue to be biopsied.

SenoRx (Aliso Viejo, Calif). The EnCor MRI Breast Biopsy System promises to deliver a new level of simplicity to breast-biopsy procedures. The latest system includes a number of enhancements, such as a choice of programming selections so clinicians can optimize the specimen-removal process; automation that, when activated, sweeps continuously through the chosen cut pattern until the desired number of samples are obtained; and a closed system that transports specimens onto a collection tray immediately after collection.

Cardiology/Angiography

Cerner Corp (Kansas City, Mo). Cerner will debut a suite of cardiology solutions, including CVNet, which automates processes across the continuum of cardiac care, from patient registration to scheduling, reporting, and coding.

CodeRyte (Bethesda, Md). A new tool is available for coding angiography, one of the most complicated subsets of interventional radiology coding due to the need for multiple CPTs for each procedure. CodeRyte's new technology reduces the coding time for each record by assigning these codes directly from the free-text of the medical record. The new tool also rank-orders the applicable relative value units as well as displays unique anatomy diagrams for each note, along with a summary table.

For cardiology products at RSNA 2005, don't miss (from left to right) MIMvista's MIMcardiac, CodeRyte's new angiography-coding tool, and InfiMed's PlatinumOne Cardiac. At right is an image captured after using MEDRAD's Stellant D CT Injection System with DualFlow.

InfiMed Inc (Liverpool, NY). Adding to its cardiology product portfolio, InfiMed will showcase the PlatinumOne series—in-room digital-acquisition systems that provide advanced imaging capabilities required for complex interventional procedures. Features of the PlatinumOne Cardiac include left ventricular analysis, quantitative coronary analysis, customizable physician preferences, and thumbnail displays for quick identification of available images. The PlatinumOne EP incorporates image-processing features with the low-dose pulsed fluoroscopic acquisition required for electrophysiology procedures. And the PlatinumOne ComboLab adds a real-time angiography feature set for interventional vascular procedures and full cardiac functionality.

MEDRAD Inc (Indianola, Pa). Improved CT diagnostic images of the coronary arteries with fewer artifacts are possible with the Stellant D CT Injection System's new DualFlow simultaneous injection option, which uses variable ratios of simultaneous plunger motion to enable both contrast and saline injection at the same time. With the proper ratio and timing, the left and right heart ventricles can be illuminated uniformly. Stellant also features a pressure monitor graph, syringe auto load, and the ability to upgrade from single to dual injection.

MIMvista Corp (Cleveland). MIMvista will be demonstrating the new features of MIMcardiac, the latest release of the MIM image fusion and display software. MIMcardiac provides a range of capabilities, including ASNC orientation, automatic calculation of cardiac volumes, 4-D PET/SPECT/CT/MR fusion and display, and visual assessment of wall motion and thickening. MIM 3.5 also allows for fusion comparison of rest/stress images via difference images expressed in percentages of normal perfusion levels.

NovaRad Corp (American Fork, Utah). NovaRad will display its new NovaPACS Cardio Viewer, which helps cardiologists more easily access study images and improve reading efficiency with single sign-on access, image calibration based on catheter size, the ability to display multiple cardiac images simultaneously, easy-to-use cine tools, and digital subtraction (which shows contrast-filled vessels without any interfering background). The viewer also allows for ejection fraction and customized worklists organized by exam type, dictation status, anatomic location, referring physician, or patient location.

ScImage (Los Altos, Calif). PICOMEnterprise is ScImage's enterprise-wide imaging engine that can meet the needs of several departments using a single database design.

Siemens Medical Solutions (Malvern, Pa). Siemens Medical's digital, ceiling-mounted cardiac imaging system will be on display. The Axiom Artis imaging system connects the catheterization lab as an integral part of the hospital's cardiology department. Boasting a 30- x 40-cm configuration for cardiology, the system provides the speed, flexibility, and integration needed for cardiology procedures, with a unique design for accessibility to the patient.

Toshiba America Medical Systems (Tustin, Calif). Toshiba's newest angiography platform, the Infinix VC-i with a 12- x 16-inch flat-panel detector, is an all-digital system that produces clear imaging and highly efficient vascular exams. This work in progress offers a powerful digital acquisition, processing, and storage system; available Zoom fluoro and 3-D angio capabilities; and exceptional C-arm motion, providing unique lateral coverage and smooth operation. The Infinix VC-i also features dose-management functions, tableside controls, a flexible tabletop design, and a liquid metal X-ray tube with a high heat capacity.

CR, DR, Film, and X-Ray

ALLPRO Imaging (Hicksville, NY). The team at ALLPRO will demonstrate three digital imaging scanners at RSNA, all of which feature ALLPRO's technology that replaces film and chemicals with reusable phosphor storage plates. The ScanX 12 system reads a 10- x 12-inch plate in less than 35 seconds and is capable of reading three plates with five views in less than 2 minutes. Next, the ScanX 14 Portable system displays images on a laptop in just 55 seconds, allowing for convenient remote diagnosis. Capable of taking up to a full 14- x 17-inch plate, the ScanX 14 Portable comes with a carrying case and power inverter for use in a vehicle. Finally, the company's new CR scanner, the ScanX 14, takes less than 1 minute to produce 14- x 17-, 10- x 12-, or 8- x 10-inch images with high resolution. A built-in feature uniformly and thoroughly erases the phosphor storage plates, making them ready for the next study.

Beijing Aerospace Zhongxing Medical Systems Co Ltd (Beijing, PR of China). Low exposure dose, high-density resolution, fast imaging speed, and stable performance are the bases of Zhongxing Medical's DR and diagnostic imaging devices. The company specializes in developing, manufacturing, and selling medical-imaging systems.

Canon Medical Systems (Irvine, Calif). Leading off with a showcase of Canon's full line of DR products is the Canon CXDI-50G, a large-area portable DR system that can be integrated to a portable X-ray unit and used at multiple patient locations, such as a patient's bedside, an intensive-care unit, or a trauma room. Visit the Canon booth to view the different portable configurations available with this system and to see other products in the company's DR line. The company also will demonstrate its DR Image Viewer and the Mobile Access Station System.

CPAC Equipment Inc (Leicester, NY). Shipping developer without paying hazmat fees is possible with CPAC's Autex A2 HC+ unitized developer. Its nonhazardous classification allows it to be shipped via regular UPS. Offering higher contrast and a bluer image tone than competing products, this two-part developer is ideal for such modalities as mammography. Like all Autex products, A2 HC+ works with any radiographic film.

CPI Canada Inc (Georgetown, Ontario). A new Active Dose Reduction (ADR) module developed by CPI delivers optimum image quality at the lowest possible dose, a feature that is particularly beneficial for procedures lasting several hours, such as pulsed fluoroscopy, electrophysiology, and arterial studies. The ADR module is designed for use with the Indico 100 series of high-frequency X-ray generators.

Eastman Kodak Co (Rochester, NY). With a wall stand capable of three-axis movement to capture a range of upright, horizontal, and cross-table projections, the new Kodak DirectView DR 7500 System features a fixed, elevating table with four-way float and an integrated operator console with the same touch-screen interface as other Kodak CR and DR systems. Also on display will be two of Kodak's works in progress: the Kodak DirectView DR 3000 System and the Kodak DirectView CR Portable Long-Length Imaging System. Features of the DR 3000 include a motorized floor-mounted U-arm with a multipurpose single detector that moves around the patient and an intuitive, color-coded touch screen. Easily transported, the CR Portable consists of a 35- x 84-cm cassette and a matching grid with a caddy that can be wheeled from room to room.

Fischer Industries Inc (Geneva, Ill). The wait for private practices seeking an affordable digital X-ray system is over. The FDA-cleared Fischer A2D2 digital X-ray system is a direct radiography system that transforms existing, standard X-ray systems into digital systems.

Clockwise from top left are just a handful of the CR, DR, film, and X-ray offerings that will be on display at RSNA: Fluke Biomedical's Dental Head Phantom, iCRco's Turbo, Fischer Industries' A2D2 digital X-ray system, and ALLPRO Imaging's ScanX 12 digital-imaging scanner."

Fluke Biomedical, Radiation Management Services (Cleveland). The next best thing to a human patient, Fluke's Dental Head Phantom provides a teaching and training tool for dental X-ray evaluation and other dosimetry applications. The model effectively mimics an average adult male head in size, shape, and structure. The phantom can be used in conjunction with CT to help detect changes in bone density and geometry.

GE Healthcare (Waukesha, Wis). Two new software programs will make a splash in GE Healthcare's DR technology arena. The new tomosynthesis application provides physicians with 3-D high-resolution slice images of human anatomy. Digital tomosynthesis, or Volume Rad, is a method of acquiring a series of low-dose projection images during a single sweep of the X-ray tube over a limited angle. A computer assembles the information to provide high-resolution slice images that can be reviewed by the radiologist at a computer workstation. The second new application, Auto Image Paste, provides physicians with single panoramic views of the human anatomy, particularly the spine and legs, without any visible seam lines and with consistent brightness and contrast for high-resolution images. Up to five image acquisitions can be acquired, with each image taking less than 3 seconds, and the image processing taking less than 30 seconds.

Huestis Medical (Bristol, RI). Because one size does not fit all, Huestis Medical is introducing several new configurations of high-end radiographic systems. Busy facilities, such as large hospitals, will benefit from the PrecisionCare 2000t package, which includes an overhead tube crane, an elevating four-way float top table, a chest stand, and electronic tomography. The PrecisionCare 2000 radiographic system is tailor-made for the modern emergency department: It is equipped with an elevating table, allowing access by stretcher or wheelchair, and an overhead tube crane. Also, the CliniCare1000t is a full-functioning radiographic suite, with a floor-mounted tube stand, a heavy-duty elevating four-way float top table, and electronic fulcrum-less tomography. The CliniCare 1000, for outpatient clinics, comes with an integrated table and tube-stand configuration as well as a chest stand.

iCRco Inc (Torrance, Calif). Putting CR into overdrive, the iCR Turbo provides 16-bit/pixel source file (65,000 shades of gray) performance power, boosting the scanning speed and erasing DR images. The Turbo's patented design incorporates an ultraprecise scan mechanism, a flat-scan path, and cassettes to quickly produce ultraprecise, high-resolution images. Also on display will be the Dual Bay Desktop CR, a small-format desktop CR system that processes two cassettes at a time.

InfiMed Inc (Liverpool, NY). The latest addition to InfiMed's DR product line is the StingRay Excel. Built upon the image-processing core and flat-panel-detector technology of the StingRay DR system, the software platform has the flexibility to accommodate a range of detectors, including both static and dynamic flat-panels. The StingRay Excel features ImageEnhance, which optimizes images, eliminating the need for postprocessing; its Edge Enhancement feature allows for separate optimized enhancement of bone or soft-tissue detail.

Kyoto Kagaku (Torrance, Calif). The Multi-Purpose Chest Phantom N1 is applicable to both plain radiography and CT scanning, created from a unique radiological substitute material and 3-D models of pulmonic blood vessels. The inner parts—consisting of the mediastinum, pulmonic blood vessels, and abdomen block—are easily detachable, allowing mimic tumors or other lesions to be attached in the lungs.

Livingston Products Inc (Wheeling, Ill). The new CR Protocol Bridge from Livingston automatically transfers X-ray information to a CR console, eliminating the need for manual data entry. Easy to install, the CR Protocol Bridge requires no subsequent operator intervention and is compatible with a variety of consoles.

NCD Medical Corp (Eastlake, Ohio). NCD Medical has created a new line of high-performance radiographic systems. Called Ultra, the new models use high-quality components in affordable turnkey solutions that include installation, service/support, and a 1-year warranty. The Ultra systems are available from 50kW–80kW, use three-phase power, and can be configured with ceiling- or floor-mounted X-ray-tube suspensions, chest stands, and full-featured digital controls.

Philips Medical Systems (Andover, Mass). Philips Medical will showcase a myriad of developments in radiography and fluoroscopy. Featuring a highly flexible flat-panel detector system with pivoting functionality, the Allura Xper FD20 captures twice the amount of clinical information at a resolution 4 times greater than conventional angiography systems. Working in conjunction with the Allura 3-D-RA, the FD20 provides real-time 3-D reconstructions of complex vasculature using a single rotational scan. For CR, Philips Medical's new PCR Eleva is a customizable system that combines reliable reader technology and excellent image quality right at the technologist's side. The company's DR solution, DigitalDiagnost, has a full automatic image-stitching function for long leg and spine images and is equipped with Unique, allowing for multiresolution image processing. For mobile X-ray, don't miss the Practix Convenio. This fully motorized, mobile system has an integrated motor, a 30-kW X-ray high-power generator, and excellent positioning capabilities.

CR, DR, film, and X-ray product offerings at RSNA will include (from left to right) Racal's 9095 Multi-Purpose Analyzer, Radlink's CR Pro, Riverain Medical's RapidScreen chest X-ray CAD system, and Unfors Instruments' Xi X-ray meter.

PROTEC (Oberstenfeld, Germany). PROTEC will introduce the "plug and process" concept to analogue X-ray film processing. Available in early 2006, the EcoMax incorporates a patented new concept of mounting all components that substantially influences image quality. Combining all aspects results in optimized image quality, a reduction of wasted chemicals due to oxidation, less demand for floor space, and easier access to components that require regular maintenance.

PTW-New York Corp (Hicksville, NY). For use in the quality assurance and quality control of diagnostic X-ray equipment, PTW introduces its line of instruments and tools featuring the DiaVolt line of noninvasive kVp, dose, and time meters. The line includes reference and field class electrometers; diagnostic chambers; compact, easy-to-use kVp; mAs and time meters; dose meters; phantoms; X-ray test phantoms; sensitometers; and densitometers. Also, professionals can be ready for the FDA's new performance standards (21 CFR 1020.30–1020.33) for radiographic and fluoroscopic X-ray systems with PTW's line of patient entrance dose and dose-rate meters for both radiologic and fluoroscopic X-ray systems.

Radcal Corp (Monrovia, Calif). Equipped with full computer control and data capture, the 9095 Multi-Purpose Analyzer from Radcal is a portable, compact system that takes the work out of multiple measurement functions, such as dose rate, auto dose, max dose rate, last dose, pulse/cine, and kV pulse. The 9095 includes Radcal's XLPro-9095, a Microsoft Excel add-in that provides drop-down menu control of all 9095 functions and automatic data capture directly into customizable spreadsheets. Also on display will be the compact 4085 kV Analyzer, which has Accu-kV technology providing kV and time/pulses.

Radlink (Torrance, Calif). Radlink's patented technologies to be showcased at RSNA include the LaserPro16 Film Digitizer and Image Acquire, a workflow-based software application that guides clinicians through a simple process of digitizing films for transmission to the PACS. Also look for CR Pro, which employs the company's "sealed fiber-optic laser technology" (patent pending) to deliver high-resolution, diagnostic-quality images. The CR Pro has an imbedded CPU and complete image acquisition, storage, and DICOM 3.0.

Riverain Medical (Miamisburg, Ohio). The first and only FDA-cleared chest X-ray CAD system to assist with the detection of early-stage lung cancer, RapidScreen identifies solitary pulmonary nodules between 9 mm and 30 mm as well as other suspicious nodules on the original standard AP/PA chest X-ray. RapidScreen offers film and filmless solutions, plus an upgrade path for those seeking to convert to digital imaging.

Unfors Instruments Inc (New Milford, Conn). Unfors will showcase Xi, its multifunction, intelligent X-ray meter that uses multiple sensors and active compensation to analyze beam quality to provide accurate and precise measurements, and remove any energy dependency generally associated with solid-state sensors. Also on display will be the new Unfors DXR+, a direct X-ray ruler that allows for quick measurements on both mammography and conventional X-ray machines.

CT

CIVCO Medical Instruments' Assist Positioning (top) and NeuroLogica's CereTom Mobile CT scanner are two CT offerings to be showcased this year.

CIVCO Medical Instruments (Kalona, Iowa). CIVCO will showcase its Assist Positioning Arm System, which enables physicians to place and hold instruments to facilitate controlled, accurate treatment during ablations, biopsies, or other minimally invasive procedures in the CT and ultrasound environments. The system holds medical instruments in a fixed location for an extended period of time, reducing the risk of repetitive stress injuries for users.

Fluke Biomedical, Radiation Management Services (Cleveland). The newly designed Nested CT Pediatric/Adult QA Dose Phantom Set is a more lightweight and portable set of quality assurance phantoms for measuring CT dose index in both children and adults. The pediatric head and pediatric body/adult head segments are simply nested inside the large adult body, making it 60 pounds lighter than the separate three-phantom set.

GE Healthcare (Waukesha, Wis). This fall, GE Healthcare announced FDA clearance of its Innova CT technology for its Innova digital fluoroscopic imaging systems. The Innova CT provides CT-like tissue visualization on the Innova flat-panel interventional X-ray systems, along with 2-D fluoroscopy during a single session of care, without moving the patient. The technology reconstructs CT-like 3-D volumes from rotational fluoroscopy acquisitions to help interventionalists in diagnosis, surgical planning, device placement, ablation, and embolization in tissue.

IMCO Technologies (Pewaukee, Wis). Multi-slice CT scans generate an enormous amount of images that demand equally impressive quantities of storage space. The MS-CT Store is a dedicated storage solution for multi-slice CT and is ideally suited for facilities without a PACS. Once a PACS is in place, all images archived on the MS-CT Store can be migrated easily.

NeuroLogica Corp (Danvers, Mass). In July, the FDA granted clearance to market the CereTom Mobile CT Scanner for use in X-ray CT applications for anatomy that can be imaged in the 25-cm field of view—primarily the head and neck. Lightweight and mobile, the scanner performs normal CT, perfusion, xenon perfusion, and angiography, reliably producing high-quality images.

Philips Medical Systems (Andover, Mass). Philips Medical will demonstrate several enhancements to workflow elements of the Brilliance CT family and the Brilliance Workspace. New clinical applications of its Brilliance family of scanners will be highlighted for radiology, cardiology, and oncology. The company also will introduce the Ambient Experience for CT, a series of products and custom solutions installed in several locations globally.

Toshiba America Medical Systems Inc (Tustin, Calif). Recent FDA marketing clearance for the Aquilion LB makes RSNA the perfect place to debut this large-bore, multi-slice CT scanner. By delivering consistent and repeatable patient positioning with high image quality and clinical performance, the Aquilion LB brings isotropic resolution to oncology. With the industry's largest bore opening of 90 cm, and a 70-cm acquired field of view, this translates to accurate scans of patients regardless of size or position.

Unfors Instruments Inc (New Milford, Conn). In early 2005, the Unfors PSD (patient skin dosimeter) received FDA 510(k) approval. The unit prevents excessive dose usage and consequential lesions on patients due to long fluoroscopic and CT procedures by providing real-time direct patient measurements of skin dose. Its four small sensors can be placed anywhere on the body, leaving a minimal footprint on the X-ray image.

Furniture

AFC Industries (College Point, NY). Performing readings just got a little easier for radiologists using the electronically powered, fully adjustable, tilting ergonomic reading station, introduced this year by AFC Industries. Constructed of the highest quality reinforced steel, the unit features electronically adjustable height and retractable monitor stands that hold up to three displays. Exact dimensions and surface shape—including corner units—are customizable.

From left to right are just some of the furniture offerings that will be on display at RSNA: the Carl's Table from Anthro, the Flexo Level 3 PACS Station from Biomorph, the HT-125 Robotic Massage Chair from Interactive Health, a PACS desk from Sound Ergonomics, and the Harmony V Keyless Entry cart from InnerSpace.

Anthro Corp (Portland, Ore). The recently redesigned Carl's Table provides an integrated work environment for soft-copy reading in all radiology environments. The new Carl's Table (known as the AW-170 table in Europe) holds up to four monitors on movable arms and includes an adjustable work surface that can be positioned to work comfortably while sitting (as low as 25.5 inches) or standing (up to 50 inches). Automatic light correction reduces glare, and the rear panel is easily removed for access to monitors, cables, and power outlets.

Biomorph (New York). The Flexo Level 3 PACS Station Biomorph Interactive Desk showcases a flexible, true sit-to-stand design. The height of the keyboard surface is instantly adjustable with positive/negative tilt action and a 10-inch range above and below the main surface—which has one of the greatest height-adjustment ranges available (from 17.5 to 51.5 inches high). The Flexo Level 3's heavy-duty, all-steel frame can support three to five of the heaviest monitors with adjustments driven either by fast crank or smooth electric power.

Ergotron Inc (St Paul, Minn). Ergotron will present new accessories for its StyleView cart, a mobile, easily adjustable computer workstation that makes data entry at the point of care a reality. Available in flat-panel, laptop, or tablet PC versions, all of which easily accommodate future hardware upgrades, the cart's open architecture permits the use of any size display up to 25 pounds. The StyleView features Constant Force motion technology, which means users can adjust the workstation 20 inches straight up and down with a fluid, one-touch vertical movement.

InnerSpace (Grand Rapids, Mich). InnerSpace will be showcasing its Harmony V Keyless Entry cart. Available in four colors, the Harmony V features a programmable automatic relock, a manual key override, and a range of accessory options. For those in search of an open, accessible storage system, the company recently added the QuickStore product line, a collection of high-density, modular storage solutions that are available in stationary and mobile configurations. Another offering from InnerSpace will be spaceTRAX, a Web-based inventory-control solution that enables real-time visibility of high-cost, high-preference inventory.

Interactive Health (Long Beach, Calif). New and improved, the Human Touch Technology HT-125 Robotic Massage Chair now boasts a full-body stretching program; three levels of massage-width and shoulder-height adjustments; and upper-, lower-, and full-back massage programs. Additionally, the chair features quad-rollers, which closely replicate the therapeutic techniques used by back and spinal care professionals, and a rotating calf and foot-massaging footrest.

RedRick Technologies Inc (Mt Brydges, Ontario). The redesign of reading rooms to provide optimized soft-copy viewing is the most frequently overlooked aspect when considering the expense of converting to PACS. RedRick helps facilities make the most of their investments with customized reading-room design for new and existing facilities. The process is straightforward. While assessing the area's physical space, workflow, ergonomics, light, air quality, and acoustics, input from the entire radiology team is gathered to determine specific goals, objectives, and concerns.

Sound Ergonomics LLC (Kenmore, Wash). Sound Ergonomics has created a PACS desk that is based on the science of proper body mechanics and postural alignment. All desks are electronically height adjustable, from 26 to 40 inches, with separate height adjustability for the keyboard and reading room chairs, offering full adjustability to accommodate a number of users.

XYBIX Systems Inc (Littleton, Colo). Adding to its selection of adjustable, ergonomic furniture, XYBIX will showcase its new, fully customizable PACS workstation. It is decked out with custom features—including adjustable, air-filtering fans; foot warmers; custom lighting; and the unique Rollervision monitor rack. Also, the chair includes I-Fit software, which allows each radiologist to program his or her individual optimum ergonomic settings.

Monitors and Displays

CPAC Equipment Inc (Leicester, NY). CPAC will introduce the Designer Series line of PerfectView X-ray illuminators. All products in the line feature an External Electrode Fluorescent Lamp (EEFL), using blue light to enhance film viewing. EEFL bulbs are flicker-free to reduce eyestrain and last an estimated 50,000 hours. Available in a variety of sizes, each system has rolling-bar film clips, rotary on-off switches with optional dimmers, and individual bulb controls on each bank.

Monitor options at RSNA will include (from left to right) CPAC Equipment's Designer Series line of X-ray illuminators, National Display's PrimeVue color displays, Ergotron's TM Large-Display Tilting Wall Mount, EIZO Nanao's RadiForce R31, and WIDE's IF2202M.

EIZO Nanao Corp (Cypress, Calif). EIZO Nanao will present two new monitors at RSNA. The RadiForce R31 is a 3-megapixel (MP) LCD monitor featuring image-rotation technology, DICOM part 14 calibration, and a comprehensive quality-control software bundle. Second, the RadiForce G33 is a 3-MP monochrome LCD monitor designed for accurate diagnosis in multiple modalities. Equipped with a Digital Uniformity Equalizer, the G33 produces optimal uniformity of the backlight's luminance.

Ergotron Inc (St Paul, Minn). Ergotron will introduce the TM Large-Display Tilting Wall Mount, with an adjustable option for flat-panel displays weighing up to up to 175 pounds; the WM LoProfile Large-Display Wall Mount, which provides a wall-hugging approach for LCD and Plasma screens; and the DC Large Display Cart, a solution for facilities with flat-panel displays that must remain portable. Display adjustments are easy and silent, thanks to Ergotron's Constant Force motion technology, which converts a conventional spring's linear-force curve into a constant flat force through the range of lifting or pivoting motion.

Matrox Graphics Inc (Montreal). Earlier this year, Matrox released the latest addition to the new Aurora VX Series of display controller boards. The Aurora VX3mp is a low-profile, single-board, PCI Express solution capable of powering up to three displays, providing users with versatile multi-display options and high image quality. Adding to its existing medical line, Matrox will introduce two new display-controller boards designed specifically for medical environments with limited space: the new Low Profile RAD2mp and the Low Profile RAD3mp. Both boards offer dual-output support of up to 2MP and 3MP grayscale or color, analog or digital displays, respectively.

MIMvista Corp (Cleveland). Digital imaging can be portable with the new MIMvision DICOM viewer. An automated process creates a CD with an intuitive interface displaying DICOM modalities and their fusion, making it possible for radiologists to put comprehensive diagnostic information onto a CD. Upon receiving the disc, referring physicians can view studies in a variety of layouts and transparency settings.

National Display Systems Inc (Morgan Hill, Calif). This year, National Display will be showcasing the PrimeVue high-brightness 2-MP, 3-MP, and 4-MP color displays; the dual-link support on 3-MP and 5-MP Axis (monochrome); and the 3-MP and 4-MP PrimeVue. The PrimeVue 3MP provides 400cd/m2 peak luminance with a 400:1 contrast ratio and a grayscale pallet derived from 6,631 gray levels from 12-bit precision tables, and it can be used as a primary reading device for all cross-sectional and fusion images. In combination with an Axis III, chest images and 3-D renderings can be viewed from one workstation using OpenGL or Directx.

NEC Display Solutions (Itasca, Ill). This year's show marks the introduction of several new products from NEC Display Solutions. First, the SpectraView LCD2180WG LED professional-grade monitor features a light-emitting diode (LED) backlight and delivers unprecedented levels of image detail and color scale. Also, NEC Display will showcase the NEC MultiSync MD Series of medical-grade LCDs. Featuring X-Light architecture, the MD Series allows two adjacent monitors to have identical white points, enabling physicians to make accurate judgments when comparing scans or X-rays.

Siemens Display Technologies (Longmont, Colo). Siemens Display will be focusing on the Integrated Look-up-Table Storage (ILS) capability available on all products. ILS makes it possible for DICOM-compliant or custom look-up tables to be stored in the display firmware. Benefits of ILS include on-the-fly swapping of graphics controllers and workstations. Also on display will be the SMD 21302, Siemens Display's newest high-resolution grayscale display, supporting resolutions of up to 3MP and incorporating such features as continuous backlight control and the built-in CIE/DICOM-compliant grayscale response. Siemens Display's SMfit ACT (Automatic Calibration Tool) Basics is a solution that automatically monitors the display, indicating immediately if its stability is no longer guaranteed. The status messages can be checked automatically, even on remote displays.

WIDE Corp (Amsterdam). This past summer, WIDE was named the official supplier of 2-MP grayscale diagnostic display systems for diagnostic viewing to all subsidiaries and affiliates of Clalit Health Services, the largest health organization in Israel. The company's IF2202M—which will be on display—is a high-quality display using three image-quality sensors: one rear sensor for stable brightness control and two front sensors for DICOM calibration.

MRI

Everbrite Lighting Technologies (ELT of Milwaukee). RSNA attendees can check out demonstrations of the MRI-compatible LED Down-Light. The LED engineering is central to the appeal of ELT's MedLux family of lighting products. The technology provides a light engine that is superior to florescent and incandescent lighting yet still is compatible for use specifically in MRI suites.

From left to right are some of the MRI-related product offerings to be showcased at RSNA 2005: Everbrite Technologies' LED Down-Light, IRadimed's MRidium MRI Infusion Pump, Resonance Technology's FuncLAB fMRI system, ProScan Imaging's Interactive MRI Teaching Files, and Mednovus' SafeScan MR Target Scanner.

GE Healthcare (Waukesha, Wis). The Signa HD product family just grew a little. New technologies on both the Signa HDx 1.5T and Signa HDx 3T include 32-channel architecture, ultrafast reconstruction algorithms, advancements in parallel imaging, and new acquisition strategies. Also on display will be the new Signa HDe 1.5T, which provides a smaller, more economical way to obtain superb diagnostic imaging. Thanks to the Signa HDe's new liquid-cooling technology, installation is quick.

InSightec Image Guided Treatment Ltd (Dallas). In conjunction with GE Healthcare, InSightec will exhibit the ExAblate 2000, a novel surgical system that combines MRI and highly focused ultrasound to noninvasively treat tumors inside the body. The system is cleared by the FDA for the treatment of symptomatic uterine fibroids. Compatible only with GE Healthcare's Signa MR systems, the ExAblate provides MR thermal feedback, giving physicians the information necessary to ensure the targeted tumor is fully treated without damaging healthy tissue.

IRadimed Corp (Winter Park, Fla). The MRidium MRI Infusion Pump is a nonmagnetic smart infusion system designed for the MR environment. Recently granted 510(k) FDA clearance, the pump eliminates the risk of suspending medication during MR scans by enabling patients to receive intravenous medications during the procedure. The system includes a built-in dose rate calculator, bolus delivery, a battery life of up to 12 hours, and free-flow protection.

Mednovus Inc (Leucadia, Calif). The Portal 9000-C is a ferromagnetic-detection portal for identifying ferromagnetic threats prior to MR imaging. Its 32-inch aperture accommodates patients on (nonferromagnetic) gurneys or wheelchairs. Another Mednovus offering is the economical and efficient SafeScan MR Target Scanner, which is not a metal detector, but a detection system that alarms only on ferromagnetic threats, making it ideal for double-checking patients who have been cleared medically to enter the magnet room.

MEDRAD Inc (Indianola, Pa). MEDRAD will showcase its Veris MR physiological monitor, with specific configurations for anesthesia, sedation, cardiac MR, research, and basic patient monitoring. The first MR monitor with five-lead ECG waveform monitoring, the Veris MR allows for the simultaneous display of up to six waveforms for efficient comparison. Another MEDRAD offering to be displayed is Continuum, an MR-compatible infusion system that delivers critical medications during MRI exams. Next, the high-resolution, small field-of-view pelvic imaging of MEDRAD's MR Endorectal Imaging System could not only improve treatment planning but could also assist in tumor staging for prostate, colorectal, and cervical disorders.

Philips Medical Systems (Andover, Mass). Philips Medical will unveil new MR techniques, including faster cardiac MR; faster, higher-resolution 4-D contrast-enhanced MR angiography; breakthroughs in whole-body diffusion imaging; and easier exam planning for optimized workflow. These enhancements will be applied to the Achieva 3T, Achieva 1.5T, and Panorama 1.0T. The company also will introduce improvements made to its NetForum online MR community initiative, which provides users with a central location for information, support, and services.

Portal Inc (North Logan, Utah). Conventional MRI requires patients to be scanned in the supine position, which removes the effects of gravity's axial load on the patient's spine during an MRI lumbar spine study. The Portal Gravity System (PGS) makes it possible to assess spinal pathologies under weight-bearing conditions by re-creating an axial load on the patient's spine during a recumbent lumbar spine study in a conventional MRI.

ProScan Imaging (Cincinnati). Put that DVD drive to work with Interactive MRI Teaching Files (IMTF) from ProScan Imaging. Extracted from the personal teaching file collection and massive case experience of world-renowned radiologist, author, and lecturer Stephen J. Pomeranz, MD, these cases create a comprehensive collection of dedicated teaching files. Available titles include MRIs of the breast, shoulder, knee, elbow, hip, and thigh.

Resonance Technology Co Inc (Northridge, Calif). Making its debut at RSNA, the new FuncLAB fMRI combines complete functional imaging task presentation with fully automated data processing to eliminate complex, time-intensive manual data analysis. The company also will showcase a new lightweight headset for its CinemaVision entertainment system, which integrates a head-mounted video display and audio system into a single unit that fits within the MRI coil.

Siemens Medical Solutions (Malvern, Pa). RSNA 2005 will welcome the Magnetom Trio MRI system to Siemens Medical's line of TIM (total imaging matrix) technology-based products. The system is the first capable of 3T whole-body MRI available with TIM, which includes flexible coil combinations to encompass local high-resolution imaging to large anatomical coverage up to 182 cm (6 feet), without changing coils or repositioning the patient.

Nuclear Medicine, PET, and SPECT

Gamma Medica Inc (Northridge, Calif). The new X-PET Pre-Clinical Imaging System will make its debut at RSNA 2005. As part of Gamma Medica's new Flex preclinical molecular imaging platform, the X-PET can be outfitted with the company's existing X-O MicroCT system module, making it the first commercially available integrated PET/CT system for preclinical molecular imaging.

GE Healthcare (Waukesha, Wis). Offering increased capacity and reliability for producing PET radioisotopes, the new PETtrace10 provides users with the highest capacity, multi-isotope-capable cyclotron. Also at the GE Healthcare booth will be the Evolution for Bone suite of reconstruction tools, which reduce tomographic bone scintigraphy time up to 50%. The company also will demonstrate Discovery STE, the newest addition to the company's modular PET/CT platform. The system offers powerful processing and acquisition along with true hybrid imaging flexibility.

GE Healthcare Bio-Sciences (Princeton, NJ). The Bio-Sciences division of GE Healthcare will present Omnipaque (iohexol), a low osmolar contrast medium that is available in the +PlusPak polymer bottle. Also on display will be Visipaque (iodixanol), a nonionic isosmolar agent for X-ray/CT, which enhances X-ray images of soft tissues—primarily blood vessels, organs, and tumors. Also to be showcased is Omniscan (gadodiamide), a nonionic diagnostic MRI agent, particularly for high-dose, high-speed procedures. In some markets, Omniscan is available in prefilled syringes and in Prefill Plus, a needle-free device that is cleared by the FDA for use in MRI.

Guerbet's Oxilan contrast medium will be showcased.

Guerbet LLC (Bloomington, Ind). Offered by Guerbet, latex-free Oxilan (ioxilan injection) provides safety and patient tolerability, along with high visualization and image quality in diagnostic and interventional procedures. This nonionic contrast medium has a molecular structure that includes a hydrophobic region to promote molecular aggregation, resulting in the lowest osmolality and one of the lowest viscosities of all nonionic monomers in the United States.

MIMvista Corp (Cleveland). MIMvista now offers an automatic PET/SPECT 3-D contouring tool that uses edge detection to define region-of-interest volumes. The tool provides 2-D and 3-D paintbrush contour editing in axial, sagittal, and coronal views. True color image fusion control facilitates contour definition, and voxel contours can be highlighted on aligned CT/MR volumes for legacy radiation therapy planning.

Philips Medical Systems (Andover, Mass). Philips Medical will showcase developments in hybrid imaging with its Gemini line of PET/CT systems, including a new PET/CT workstation and the Gemini GXL, which boasts an open PET/CT design. Also, the Precedence SPECT/CT with its Astonish reconstruction algorithm for PET-like resolution will be on display. The Precedence can perform coronary CT angiography, calcium scoring, and attenuation corrected mycocardial perfusion in one imaging session.

Siemens Medical Solutions (Malvern, Pa). Siemens Medical will showcase Symbia TruePoint SPECT/CT, which combines the functional sensitivity of SPECT with the anatomical detail of diagnostic multi-slice CT. The system quickly captures comprehensive, accurate information on both the molecular and anatomical levels, enabling clinicians to detect changes in molecular activity even before structural changes become visible.

PACS; RIS; and Data Archiving, Storage, and Distribution

Clockwise from top left are four of the PACS, RIS, and data archiving solutions to be displayed at RSNA: Connect Imaging's ViewBox, IMCO Technologies' VIP-PACS, InSiteOne's InDex archiving solution, and INFINITT's Web-based RIS/PACS.

Agfa Corp (Ridgefield Park, NJ). Agfa's HealthCare business group is focusing on Web-based solutions for everything from orders to result distribution. First is the Impax Enterprise, a workflow solution that addresses enterprise needs through an integrated image- and information-management solution by combining a multitude of products: Impax PACS 6.0, Impax RIS, SMMS, Impax Reporting, and Impax Auditing and Integration Services. Agfa also will be demonstrating Impax RIS/PACS, an integrated workflow solution for single- or multisite imaging centers and clinics.

Cerner Corp (Kansas City, Mo). Cerner will showcase two different applications. The first is its unified RIS/PACS solution, which received several new enhancements, including workflow improvements that make navigation easier and optimize the radiologist's experience by automatically launching the tools necessary to complete the interpretation. Second is the Multi-Media Foundation (MMF), which integrates digital images and objects within an EHR, compiling a comprehensive patient record from data such as ECG waveforms, fetal monitor strips, photographs, and video images.

CoActiv Medical (Ridgefield, Conn). This year, CoActiv will bring a host of new technologies and releases. First up: Enhancements to its Exam-PACS system include expanded database capabilities, faster performance, and complete bidirectional interfaces with RIS/HIS systems. The upgrade comes with a Modality Worklist Service Option (at no extra charge) and brokerless HL7 capabilities, which allow for bidirectional HL7 interfacing to virtually any HL7-capable application. Other products include the new PET/CT Fusion workstation image-display, -distribution, and -archiving system; the new special edition Orthopedic version of Exam-PACS; and the 100% Up-Time SLA (Service Level Agreement) on the CoActiv Exam-Vault Archive service.

Connect Imaging Inc (Honolulu). Visit Connect Imaging to view two key product enhancements made to the company's existing PACS solutions for small hospitals and imaging centers. The company's upgraded Distribution Manager module forwards studies to radiologists, whether they're working remotely or on-site. A monitor panel indicates if the radiologist has received all images in the study or not. Enhancements to Connect Imaging's ViewBox include a background study preloading thread that allows users to display and manipulate studies with more than 1,000 slices almost as quickly as two-view chest X-rays.

DatCard Systems (Irvine, Calif). Providing a completely automated, cost-efficient alternative to laser film, DatCard's PacsCube is a networked, DICOM-compliant device that places full-fidelity digital DICOM images with patient results on CD/DVD. Image-review capability is equal to that found on many sophisticated PACS workstations. Facilities can create custom labels and splash screens for discs, which can be viewed on any Windows-based PC.

DR Systems Inc (San Diego). DR Systems continues to hone the company's unified single RIS/PACS vendor solution, a scalable system for diagnostic imaging facilities performing between 10,000 and 750,000 exams per year. Recent enhancements include a single sign-on EMR integration with more HIS interfaces as well as patient and resource scheduling with patient flow and film tracking.

Eastman Kodak Co (Rochester, NY). One addition to the latest version of Kodak DirectView PACS System 5 is a user-centric architecture that supports individual preferences from anywhere the system is accessed. Upgrades also have been made to the Kodak CareStream RIS, including simplified reporting for "normal" results, graphic display of patient status, enhanced database searches, and graphical notification of workload status for radiologists.

Empiric Systems LLC (Morrisville, NC). Empiric Systems will present the latest release of Encompass.net—a Web-based radiology-management system with complete RIS, PACS, and billing capabilities—alongside a host of staffing-management and quality-assurance tools. The company also recently announced its collaboration with JaggedEMR LLC (Wrightsville Beach, NC) to offer a new portal between referring physicians and imaging center operations.

IMCO Technologies Corp (Pewaukee, Wis). IMCO Technologies will feature its new VIP-PACS at RSNA. An affordable, fully featured solution, the VIP-PACS is tailor-made for smaller facilities. Basic, standard, and premium versions are available; each includes flat-panel monitors and the IMCO-view workstation software sold on the larger IMCO-PACS products.

Integrated Modular Systems Inc (Havertown, Pa). RSNA marks the launch of imsiArchive, a new secure, off-site archiving and data-recovery solution that offers clients a secure, cost-efficient way to meet their storage and backup needs while meeting HIPAA regulations and security requirements. The solution also offers clients live backup and online access of images and information, which keeps patient information completely safe yet accessible via a secure online connection.

INFINITT Co Ltd (Seoul). INFINITT (formerly SmartPACS) will give RSNA attendees a look at INFINITT PACS, the company's new fully Web-based RIS/PACS solution with advanced 3-D functionalities. Designed for community hospitals, imaging centers, and private practices, the system provides advanced image visualization and analysis functions on one workstation.

InSiteOne Inc (Wallingford, Conn). InSiteOne will showcase its new professional data-migration and data-retrieval feature implemented across its InDex long-term archiving line. This new data-migration service transfers information from a site's existing archives to InSiteOne's permanent off-site archive system. Users can opt to use the data-cleansing feature, which compares DICOM images and RIS data for accurate one-to-one correspondence and eliminates unnecessary information.

Intuitive Imaging Informatics LLC (Bell Canyon, Calif). The latest ImageQube will be on display at Intuitive Imaging's booth. Along with its recent FDA clearance, the ImageQube is now capable of supporting a multiple-monitor configuration to accommodate diagnostic use. Users now have the option of having the Web-based PACS as a stand-alone system or as a tightly integrated component of the Rational Imaging PACS and Web-based RISQube.

New PACS offerings to be highlighted at RSNA include (from left to right) Medweb's Personal PACS Webserver and RamSoft's PowerWorklist, part of its PowerServer 4.0 solution.

Medweb (San Francisco). Medweb will be introducing three customizable PACS solutions geared toward researchers and private offices. The Personal PACS Webserver features a free DICOM viewer, HL7 broker, modality worklist, report engine, CD publishing, VPN, access-control lists, and off-site storage. The Office/OR PACS offers an integrated RIS and an electronic billing module. And the Enterprise PACS boasts accelerated performance, along with remote monitoring and system administration, with optional 3-D viewing over the Web, up to 20 terabytes of online storage, and an optional SAN interface.

Merge eMed (Milwaukee). Working to redefine traditional concepts of RIS and PACS, Merge eMed will showcase its integrated RIS/PACS business and clinical workflow solutions, in combination with specialty clinical visualization software for PET/CT fusion, mammography, orthopedics, virtual colonoscopy, calcium scoring, lung-nodule detection, and 3-D fetal imaging. Making its first appearance at this year's show will be Merge eMed's 64-bit computing platform, which was created to make possible the visualization of today's increasingly large study sizes.

Misys Healthcare Systems (Raleigh, NC). The latest version of the Misys RIS manages information and images into one easy-to-use, easy-to-access information source—and it will be on display during RSNA. The system includes a number of new features, including a hold queue, structured reporting, PACS integration, and enhanced medical-necessity checking.

NCD Medical Corp (Eastlake, Ohio). The latest solution from NCD is a Web-based ASP mini-PACS/records service called e-WIX (electronic-worldwide information exchange). This HIPAA- and FDA-compliant service gives medical facilities instant access to all of their medical information, including DICOM images, medical records, accounting, and other paper documents, without having to make a capital investment. NCD also can store hard-copy X-ray film, digitize it on demand, and deliver it electronically (or transfer it to the e-WIX service) when required.

Philips Medical Systems, Global PACS Business Unit (Brisbane, Calif). At RSNA, the former Stentor will introduce the Philips iSite PACS, which can be purchased with a "pay-per-study" business model that enables customers to purchase PACS services without a major software or infrastructure investment. The company also will display the latest developments in the Xcelera cardiology IT family and Philips Xtenity RIS.

RADinfo Systems Inc (Dulles, Va). Launched in September, the PowerPACS Universal Image Importer is a new DICOM-importing solution that provides a set of tools for patient consolidation and management control when importing DICOM medical records from outside facilities into an existing PACS. Also on display will be the Micro PowerPACS, a new "mini-PACS" management tool that can archive, view, print, and distribute DICOM images. The company's new PACS/RIS hybrid solution is an IHE- and HIPAA-compliant system that offers brokerless PACS/RIS workflow integration that is completely configurable and scalable.

RamSoft (Toronto). RSNA is where RamSoft will launch PowerServer 4.0, its next-generation Web-based teleradiology and PACS solution. Features include RapidKeys—a shortcut keypad with one-button access to clinical tools that also serves as an interactive training tool for basic system tasks, such as dictating reports, setting up a hanging protocol, or creating a real-time PowerWorklist, which is color-coded by status and can be configured by user and role.

StorageTek (Louisville, Colo). This summer, StorageTek announced new enhancements to its advanced Remote Managed Storage (RMS) service offerings. Designed to help its partners deliver improved remote monitoring and management of PACS and patient information, StorageTek's RMS services enable healthcare organizations to optimize data accessibility, maximize data protection, streamline information-archiving processes, and minimize system downtime.

Thinking Systems (St Petersburg, Fla). The company will announce a host of new products. First up is the range of enhancements to its multimodality, Web-based ThinkingPACS, including direct support for hybrid SPECT/CT scanners with dedicated image-fusion software for these images. Second is new support for coregistration and fusion of independently acquired images in a range of modalities. Finally, the company will showcase the latest release of its PET/CT fusion software, which incorporates the ability to select and fine-tune image-display layouts based on multiple criteria.

Printers and Printing Supplies

iCRco Inc (Torrance, Calif). Printing diagnostic images on film or paper is a snap with the iCRco CR's built-in hard-copy printer. The CR/Printer Combo Unit can reproduce digital images on film or paper in 14- x 17-inch and 8- x 10-inch sizes, as well as grayscale paper/white film images.

For printers, don't miss the UP-D72XR digital imager from Sony Medical Systems.

Sony Medical Systems (Park Ridge, NJ). Medical-grade peripherals for a range of modalities and specialties will be on display at the Sony booth, including the new digital UP-D897 and analog UP-897MD monochrome ultrasound system-compatible printers. Both printers are lightweight and deliver crisp 325 dpi A6 output in about 2 seconds. Also on display will be the UP-D72XR, a compact, high-speed monochrome digital imager for use with mobile C-arms, ultrasound, and cardiac cath images. Sony also will present the UP-D77MD color dye-sublimation DICOM imager. Particularly suited to nuclear-medicine applications, such as PET/CT and 3-D CT, the printer can fine-tune color output to match a display without altering grayscale values.

Services

American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT of St Paul, Minn). The radiologist assistant (RA) certification eligibility requirements will be highlighted. The requirements state that RA certification candidates must be ARRT-registered radiographers with at least 1 year of postradiography-certification clinical experience, must hold a baccalaureate degree, and must have completed a recognized RA program.

CBIZ Medical Management Professionals (CBIZ MMP of Chattanooga, Tenn). CBIZ MMP serves private and academic practices of all sizes and provides billing and accounts receivable management services. The company also maintains a comprehensive compliance plan to mitigate the impact of governmental or other third-party scrutiny of a radiology practice's billing, collections, and accounts receivable management operations.

CitiCapital (Mt Laurel, NJ). In need of unique financing solutions? CitiCapital offers them for outpatient facilities faced with the challenge of absorbing increased patient demand while maintaining profitability. Throughout RSNA, CitiCapital will showcase such solutions as start-up assistance, working capital and capital for equipment purchases, flexible terms and conditions, and refinance solutions.

DOTmed.com (New York).With DOTmed.com's improved interface and comprehensive FAQs, selling used medical equipment online has never been easier. Auctions on the Web site often bring 2 to 4 times as much revenue as other resale options because access to almost all of the site's features and services are free. The services directory lists more than 9,500 companies, and automatic email alerts mean customers can act fast when equipment they need is posted for sale online.

echelon (Orlando, Fla). Offering a range of e-learning solutions that follow best practices in instructional design and fulfill CME requirements, echelon helps companies select the most effective means of educating and training medical professionals. The company's customized and interactive continuing-education and training solutions can be delivered in person, online, or with a CD.

HCG Building Technologies (Ceres, Calif). HCG's individually designed structures make it possible for facilities to continue to grow despite the constraints of limited space. HCG offers all-inclusive services, including architectural design, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and final on-site installation. Modular facilities can be built as single suites, freestanding multimodality centers, or multifloor buildings.

RadWorking.com (Denton, Tex). Whether the dream is to start a new partnership or find a space with an established practice, RadWorking.com is a top resource for employment. The online radiology-employment database provides radiology professionals with free 24x7 access to job postings.

Society of Nuclear Medicine (SNM of Reston, Va). SNM recently launched its Molecular Imaging Center of Excellence, an organizational component dedicated to all aspects of molecular imaging in the detection and management of disease. Next, to help simplify the processes involved with satisfying maintenance of certification requirements, SNM has created the online Lifelong Learning and Self-Assessment Program. Finally, SNM will showcase a handful of educational resources that are available online, including A Clinician's Guide to Nuclear Medicine.

Vision Imaging Partners Inc (Marlton, NJ). There's no reason for independent medical imaging service and supply companies to go it alone. Vision Imaging is composed of independent medical-imaging dealers focused primarily on the hospital and private-practice markets, offering products from more than 40 participating manufacturers nationwide. As the membership continues to grow, so does the ability to improve the overall quality of products and services offered to the medical-imaging community.

Software

3TP Imaging Sciences (White Plains, NY). The team at 3TP will introduce two new software products: WorkSpace and Server2. Both are based on the company's new Full-Time-Point (FTP) pharmacokinetic-analysis software platform, a complex algorithm that enables the analysis of all available time points. The result is the calculation of vascular permeability and extracellular volume fraction values for all pixels within a region of interest in contrast-enhanced MRI studies.

Software products abound at RSNA this year, including (from left to right) Emageon's Native Volume Rendering, Exxim Computing's COBRA version 4, Intelerad Medical's InteleViewer, and Mercury Computer's RADIN 4.0 Web-based solution.

AMICAS Inc (Boston). AMICAS will debut Vision Reach, a referring-physician portal to help solve the challenges facing imaging businesses. Designed as a communication tool between radiologists and referring clinicians, Vision Reach features include email or pager notification of critical results, zero-install image viewer, key image display with annotations, and historical reports.

Apollo Medical Imaging Technology (Melbourne, Victoria, Australia). The MIStar 3.2 is a fast, user-friendly software package that offers image manipulation, visualization, and DICOM connectivity as well as full-color surface and volume rendering with real-time manipulations. Advanced applications include CT, MR, nuclear medicine perfusion, permeability mapping for brain and body organs, multivolume fusion, diffusion tensor fiber tractography, and 3-D visualization.

Ascension Technology Corp (Burlington, Vt). The newest microBird tracker available from Ascension Technology will be showcased at RSNA. The solution supports the tracking of miniaturized sensors that fit into working channels of scopes and inside catheters. With its 6°-of-freedom guidance device for 3-D medical-imaging procedures, the unit is unobtrusive and unaffected by line-of-sight or environmental issues.

Cedara Software (Mississauga, Ontario). Cedara Software will unveil several new technologies at RSNA, including: Cedara I-Conference, an application that consolidates images and data for medical presentations; Cedara I-ReadMammo, a soft-copy reading workstation designed for Breast Imaging; and Cedara OrthoWorks, a diagnostic tool designed to help orthopedic specialists with image acquisition, surgical planning, templating, archiving, and Web distribution. The company also will showcase Cedara B-CAD, a CAD solution specifically designed to assist radiologists in analyzing breast ultrasound.

Commissure Inc (New York). Commissure Inc has released two modular applications designed to reduce critical errors in radiology and improve communications between medical professionals. RadWhere Suite uses intuitive and user-friendly speech-recognition reporting to perform multiple clinical content searches, helping the radiologist provide a more accurate report. RadPort Suite guides clinicians to order the most appropriate exam simply by entering the desired exam and indications. Referring physicians can check the status of ordered exams and review a multimedia report and images after the results have been returned.

Eastman Kodak Co (Rochester, NY). Still a work in progress, the Kodak Medical Image Central Software promises to be a user-friendly software application for assembling DICOM, JPEG, TIF, GIF, and BMP images together for printing, archiving, displaying, and reporting. The application helps users locate and assemble images from any modality or archive on their network. Images are gathered and composed for an output device or report, can be printed on film or paper, and are stored on CD/DVD and/or displayed on a monitor.

Emageon (Birmingham, Ala). At RSNA, Emageon will introduce and demonstrate the features of its new Emageon System Release 5.30.1, including Native Volume Rendering (which leverages the OpenGL graphics standard to manipulate 3-D volumes with high-quality ray-tracing in real time) and the Integrated Administrative Toolset (a group of Web administrative tools that provide a collaborative environment for content management, including a new QC Workstation).

ETIAM (Gladwyne, Pa). ETIAM will introduce the Open LiteBox 2.70, a viewer that supports the display and manipulation of DICOM MPEG video files. Specially adapted to visible light imaging, the viewer enables users to review and annotate both streaming video files and still images as well as export streams to MPEG, AVI, and JPEG files. Also on display: the WillB, an IHE data-exchange application that manages the transmission of HL7 information between imaging modalities and a facility's other information and scheduling-management systems. Lastly, the DICOM Izer DVD is a video-editing and DICOM-conversion application that allows users to select digital video files and movie chapters from medical DVDs and store them on a PACS.

ETS-Lindgren (Glendale Heights, Ill). The company's Magnetic Active Compensation and Vibration System (MACAVS) is an all-in-one system that ensures accurate results. Using current data-acquisition technology—such as dynamic signal with alias-free bandwidth, IEPE signal conditioning, and AC/DC coupling—the MACAVS uses a variety of sensors and expands for custom applications, providing both Magnetic Active Compensation System and vibration surveying.

Exxim Computing Corp (Pleasanton, Calif). Exxim will demonstrate its COBRA v.4 software package, which makes it possible to obtain excellent head images from low-cost, volume CT scanners. High spatial resolution is achieved using a flat-panel detector with small, radiographic pixel size, yielding high image quality for dental and bone assessment as well as soft-tissue diagnostics. Exxim also will introduce its Extended View data-acquisition solution, which makes full-body scanning in cone beam techniques a reality.

GE Healthcare (Waukesha, Wis). GE Healthcare's new AW RemoteAccess provides clinicians and physicians with access to Advantage Workstation (a 3-D visualization and analysis solution) from any computer with Internet access. Also on display will be the recently introduced AW VolumeShare, which addresses workflow challenges and improves diagnostic confidence across the enterprise by helping clinicians manage high exam volumes and large data sets.

HIPAAT Inc (Ann Arbor, Mich). HIPAAT will be launching the Java version of its ATNA Auditlog Toolkit, which offers simplified, centralized security-auditing capabilities. The Java version supports the IHE's Audit Trail and Node Authentication (ATNA) profile and enables imaging vendors to generate IHE-compliant audit messages from proprietary logs.

Intelerad Medical Systems (Montreal). Intelerad will showcase new products and features available for its IntelePACS and InteleViewer lines. The new edition of the InteleViewer Workstation features full DICOM support and JPEG 2000 transmission as well as a complete range of viewer functionality. The company also will present its full set of new MPR tools, including double-oblique MPR, in-plane reformatting, slice averaging, and accommodation for gantry tilt angulation and slice thickness variation. Also, the new Teaching Files Reading Simulator allows users to perform soft-copy viewing in a fully simulated reading environment complete with the display of a teaching file case history.

Livingston Products Inc (Wheeling, Ill). The latest innovation from Livingston Products eliminates the need for duplicate data entry. FilmIDCom retrieves patient demographic data from a DICOM radiology database via a network interface. Information can be found using either patient or examination ID. X-ray examination history data include time, date, patient and setting information, and tech ID and notes.

medQ Inc (Dallas). On tap for medQ is the Q/ris 3000 Workflow Management System, a patient-centric, rules-driven model that enables facilities to fully integrate all of their disparate information systems and work processes. The Q/ris 3000 integrates ordering, scheduling, reporting (dictation), report distribution, billing, and process management with comprehensive management reports. Mammography tracking and an integrated billing system for technical and professional fees are available.

MedQuist (Mount Laurel, NJ). MedQuist will showcase PhysAssist IQ Enterprise, an on-premise solution that enables medical professionals to capture patient-related data and dictation on more than 40 personal digital assistant (PDA) devices. PhysAssist IQ operates like a handheld dictation device, allowing the originator to fast-forward and rewind through dictation as well as hold dictation on the unit to complete at a later time.

Mercury Computer Systems Inc (Chelmsford, Mass). Revealing its new "3-D to the Core" product line, Mercury Computer's new platform supports the imminent transformation of the diagnostic process from slice-by-slice visualization to fully integrated, seamless 3-D visualization. Specific products available for review include VisageRT Reconstruction with Cell Technology—a solution that delivers orders of magnitude reduction in reconstruction time over existing technologies. Finally, the RADIN 4.0 is the latest version of Mercury's Web-based PACS, now with fully integrated 3-D capability, a seamless HL7 interface, and full DICOM print functionality.

Mindways Software (Austin, Tex). Mindways produces QCT bone densitometry products for central (spine and hip) bone mass measurements. The QCT Pro products use CT images to give dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-like hip bone mineral density (BMD) measurements and volumetric spine BMD measurements, which are interpreted in the same way as DXA hip images. Recent enhancements include an improved PACS interface, an updated user interface with larger spine images, and increased automation that yields typical analysis times of less than 1 minute.

The Virtual Radiology Network from NeuroStar Solutions will be demonstrated at RSNA.

NeuroStar Solutions (Atlanta). NeuroStar Solutions is introducing its Virtual Radiology Community Web site v.2.0, a gateway site for the company's Virtual Radiology Network (VRN) image-management solution. The site provides a place for imaging professionals to share services, resources, and information. Also on display: the latest version of VRN, now complemented by PACS-in-a-Flash, which brings the power of the VRN to a portable USB flash device.

NovaRad Corp (American Fork, Utah). NovaRad is lightening up this year. The company will exhibit its NovaWeb Lite Web Server, a viewer designed to compensate for facilities struggling with older computers or slow Internet access. By making images available as JPEGs, NovaWeb Lite eliminates the delay many radiologists experience when accessing study images. Access through NovaWeb Lite is password protected, and the system's 128-bit HIPAA-compliant encryption ensures image security.

Numa Inc (Amherst, NH). This year's RSNA provides Numa with the opportunity to promote its new workflow-management tools that provide seamless dissemination of correct patient information throughout the imaging department and healthcare facility. The tools assist in such areas as patient file steering, secure remote access to patient images, streamlining departmental workflow, automatic image distribution (even to multiple locations), and automated DICOM modality worklist corrections/matching.

Orthocrat Ltd (Houston). Orthocrat introduces the most recent additions to its line of surgical planning and templating solutions. The OrthoMacro allows orthopedists to build measurement protocols and define tools for specific clinical tasks. Orthocrat also will debut a new thin-client architecture, which is capable of downloading from central server. The latest enhancements provide a single point of PACS integration, which eliminates the need for multiple copies of the program and integration at each workstation.

Other software products to be showcased at RSNA 2005 include NovaRad's NovaWeb Lite Web Server (above left) and Philips Dictation Systems' SpeechExec (above right).

Philips Dictation Systems (Atlanta). Philips Dictation will launch its next-generation SpeechMike, which now includes an optical trackball and a scroll wheel. Two types of SpeechMikes will be on display: the Classic, with the a four-position switch, and the SpeechMike Pro, with buttons. Philips Dictation also will showcase SpeechExec, a scaleable, company-wide digital dictation and transcription solution. The software processes dictation voice files from recording to archiving and can easily be configured according to each user's preferences.

Precision Software Inc (Atlanta). Stressing over complex staff scheduling for daily work and call assignments? Make life easier with any one of Precision Software's scheduling products—including the Precision Scheduler+, WebSchedule, TaskTrac, and BidMaster.

Quantum Medical Imaging (Long Island, NY). Quantum Medical will roll out its new TechVision Tubesupport Operator Touch Screen with an exclusive digital image preview. Within 3 seconds, the TechVision interface provides a complete digital image at the operator handgrip for the technologist to preview and then forward to the physician over a PACS network, effectively liberating him or her to move from the operator's control panel when necessary. Technologists can alter exposure parameters and view information on the TechVision all-in-one acquisition screen and handgrip device, which is mounted directly onto the X-ray tube.

RealVision Inc (Santa Clara, Calif). RealVision's upgraded VREngine/SMD-Adv series of graphics controller cards takes advantage of PCI-Express, Dual-Link, high-speed 512-megabyte memory, and enough off-screen spaces for more than 500 CT slices. Available before year's end, the VREngine/SMD-Adv series provides PACS users with exceptional X-ray diagnosis performance and an ideal DICOM auto-calibrated environment. Also available at the show will be LumiCal Client v.2.0 (DICOM-calibration software) and LumiCal Server v.2.0 (an application that controls remote DICOM calibrations for all monitors in the hospital's LAN/WAN network).

Sorna Corp (Eagan, Minn). More intelligence is always a good thing. In that spirit, Sorna's family of DICOM CD/DVD recording systems have grown a little smarter with the addition of v.2.0 eXpedo, the intelligent software powering FilmX. The eXpedo's customizable "workflow profiles" feature automates and streamlines time-consuming tasks and boasts a new user interface that adds more viewing features as well as improved connectivity.

Swearingen Software Inc (Houston). A comprehensive billing solution is on the horizon. Scheduled for release in early 2006, Swearingen's fully integrated RMS Billing module streamlines the billing process. Features include full integration with RMS as well as the ability to print HCFA 1500 insurance claims and submit ANSI 837 electronic claims. Electronic claims will be filed using PGP encryption for added security.

TomoVision (Montreal). TomoVision develops and sells software tools that help access old archives and integrate scanners to the DICOM environment. The ReadOmatic reads the archive media from a scanner, transferring it directly to a PC. The DICOMatic feature automatically converts scanned images into DICOM format.

WebInterstate Inc (Minneapolis). WebInterstate will announce its DICOM image-viewing application called MediMatrix, a practice-management service for the portable ultrasound and X-ray industries that provides such features as online ordering, scheduling, transcription, patient reports, and HIPAA-compliant billing. Also at RSNA will be the recently introduced RAD Order, a suite of applications that includes HIS/RIS and PACS functionality, an FDA-cleared viewer, modality worklists, and long-term storage and retrieval for DICOM images.

WinScribe (Auckland, New Zealand). RSNA 2005 marks the official release of WinScribe's v.3.6, which delivers new functionality and features, including compatibility with more peripheral devices. New "Server Side Recognition" software means customers can shift the speech-recognition processing from the desktop or portable client back to a central server. The new version adds voice-over Internet protocol (VOIP), meaning users can choose to VOIP or Internet telephone calls directly to the WinScribe server, eliminating the need for recorders or other equipment.

Ultrasound

Aloka Ultrasound (Wallingford, Conn). With its Ultimate ProSound Alpha 10, Aloka introduces a compound pulse-wave generator that designs the transmission waveform to match the application, allowing for precision focus control of high-resolution ultrasound beams while reducing unwanted artifacts. The compact, mobile unit has a large, adjustable-height operation panel that swivels for stress-free scanning. Designed with a flexible, scalable architecture, future upgrades and reprocessing of clinical data can be completed with ease.

Interested in ultrasound? Don't miss (from left to right) Biodex Medical's Sound Pro table, Mindray's DP-9900PLUS Digital Ultrasonic Imaging System, and Sonora Medical's FirstCall probe-testing device.

Biodex Medical Systems (Shirley, NY). A new line of ultrasound tables will be featured at the Biodex booth: the redesigned Ultra Pro and Echo Pro tables, as well as the new Sound Pro Combination table. Fully loaded with ultrasound and echocardiography capabilities, the Sound Pro offers a 30-inch width, a 500-pound patient-weight capacity, and a 23- to 29-inch height range. All table adjustments are accomplished with either a hand or foot controller, and allow scanning from a seated or standing position.

CIVCO Medical Instruments (Kalona, Iowa). CIVCO will showcase the Ultra-Pro 3 needle-guidance system, which provides safe, precise, and consistent guidance for such applications as fine needle aspiration, core biopsy, drainage aspirations, amniocentesis, and catheterization. With zero needle resistance, the system offers clinicians smoother movement and navigation during puncture procedures. A customized bracket on the Ultra-Pro 3 fastens securely into the locating feature on the transducer, and a disposable needle guide snaps onto the bracket.

Essoula Inc (Everett, Wash). Essoula will announce that its aromatherapy-enhanced ultrasound gels are now available for purchase in 5-L containers. Comfort Gel has been found to be nondermal sensitizing, hypoallergenic, and safe to use on all external ultrasound transducers. This water-soluble gel provides a nonpharmaceutical solution for helping anxious patients relax, resulting in a more pleasurable and productive ultrasound experience.

GE Healthcare (Waukesha, Wis). Announced in June, GE Healthcare will be displaying its new Volume Imaging Protocol (VIP) platform. VIP imaging capability enables sonographers to sweep across a target area of anatomy and collect true, raw data. After image acquisition, the system can manipulate the raw data with new protocols and, in a 3-D planar view, long after the patient has left. The VIP platform is enhanced on the Logiq 9 and Logiq 7 ultrasound systems in conjunction with the LogiqWorks workstation.

Kyoto Kagaku (Torrance, Calif). The newly developed Ultrasound Puncture Pad simulates the effective puncturing and catheterization necessary for training on the use of ultrasound guidance for central venous catheterization. The skin, soft tissue, and vein walls are constructed of a soft material that provide lifelike feeling and pressure to the needle tip. Kyoto Kagaku also will display its Echo-Zou model Abdominal Ultrasound Examination Training Set. A precise anatomical model of human internal organs, the Echo-Zou can be separated into 20 parts.

The Skinny: What's New at RSNA For many in the imaging community, November is just as much about attending RSNA as it is about turkeys and pumpkin pie. In fact, this year's attendees will share the McCormick Place with more than 60,000 of their friends and colleagues, about one third of whom received stamps on their passports en route to Chicago. As the number of attendees continues to grow, so do the behind-the-scenes efforts of those whose job it is to make sure the show is a success. Many of the improvements are not immediately noticeable—rearranging booths for optimum traffic flow, for example—but others will be hard to miss. One-Stop Shopping For the first time, all of the RSNA member services will be located in a centralized location. "We've made a conscious effort to put all Society services under one roof this year," says Steve Drew, RSNA assistant executive director for scientific assembly and informatics. "If you want to find out about your publication subscription or to see if your name was listed as a donor for the research, now it's all in the Lakeside Center." Booths located on the exhibit floor will provide scaled-down versions of several member-services offices, another first for this year's meeting. Helmed by RSNA staff, attendees can obtain answers and information without having to travel for it. Spending all week inside doesn't necessarily make getting around any easier—until now. Instead of burning daylight circling the floor, visitors can seek out one of the new interactive kiosks in front of each exhibit hall, search for the desired destination, and print a map to make navigating to the booth a cinch. (Now, if only they could do this to find rental cars in the parking garage!) Have DICOM, Will Travel Once on-site, one of the first spots attendees will want to look up is the IHE Portable Data for Imaging booth in the infoRAD area (Lakeside Center, Hall D2). By coordinating with all major vendors, RSNA is able to present an interactive demonstration of an integration profile, a clearly defined way to implement DICOM standards to achieve interoperability for exchange of images on removable media, specifically CDs. "It's actually part of the Integrating the Healthcare Enterprise [IHE] initiative," explains Chris Carr, director of informatics for RSNA. "It essentially tightens up the standards so patients can transport medical information with a strong probability that the next institution will be able to read what was acquired earlier." Those who swing by the booth can learn more about the program and pick up a sample disk that will help them compare apples to apples. All participating vendors can use the CD to show off their systems' ability to import images and information. Also, a premium is promised for participants, so there's no reason not to join in. More Poster-less Posters "Last year was the first time we made a select group of the education exhibits and scientific posters available via computers," Drew says. Based on the positive reaction to the 88 computers available at RSNA 2004, the approach was expanded so that 300 computers will be available in Lakeside Center, Hall D1. "Attendees can use these systems to access all scientific posters, plus five of the major categories in the education exhibits area." Every Vote Counts A cornerstone of RSNA is the multitude of educational opportunities available during the show. New this year are 136 refresher courses, four refresher-course tracks, four "Essentials of Radiology" courses, and a case-based review course in radiation oncology. Approximately 15 courses will be presented using an audience-response system. This interactive technology allows instructors to poll participants at designated times during the instruction and adjust their presentation accordingly. "The whole idea of interactive learning is making sure the information that an instructor provides is relevant to his audience and that the audience is actually understanding what is being presented," Drew says. "During the session, the instructor can actually tailor the information to the needs of that specific audience." —DH

Mindray (Guangdong, China). The DP-9900Plus Digital Ultrasonic Diagnostic Imaging System joins ultra-broadband and multifrequency technology with ergonomic engineering design. Mindray's all-digital ultrasound imaging technology boasts outstanding imaging quality, a complete information solution, and abundant peripheral ports, including dual USB, CD-R/W, and optional DICOM 3.0.

Philips Medical Systems (Andover, Mass). Philips Medical will be showcasing Vision 2005 enhancements to the iU22 system, including cardiology capabilities, photo-quality 3-D fetal imaging, and on-cart and off-cart upgrades to the QLAB Quantification Software.

Shantou Institute of Ultrasonic Instruments Inc (Guangdong, China). The streamlined design of the CTS-7700 doesn't detract from the portable ultrasound system's functionality. The unit is composed of a foldaway backlit keyboard, a 10-inch monitor, the main body, and two active probe connectors. Complete calculation packages and reports are integrated in the CTS-7700, which can save a large quantity of cineloops and images that can be transferred to another PC or stored.

Sonora Medical Systems (Longmont, Colo). Sonora will feature the FirstCall probe-testing device. The world's first multivendor, high-speed ultrasound probe tester, FirstCall enables clinical engineers, service technicians, and manufacturing personnel to objectively evaluate the state of ultrasound transducers suspected of being defective. FirstCall can test most linear, phased, and convex arrays, and it is configured to handle intercavity probes.

SonoSite (Bothell, Wash). SonoSite will highlight its third-generation ultrasound technology, the MicroMaxx. Weighing less than 8 pounds, the system delivers image resolution and performance comparable to much larger systems. The company also will highlight two new broadband transducers for use with the MicroMaxx: the P10 (a high-frequency, phased array probe for pediatric and neonatal radiology and cardiology assessment) and the HST 13-6 (a high-frequency linear array for imaging the vascular system and superficial structures).

Toshiba America Medical Systems (Tustin, Calif). This August, Toshiba Medical introduced its fully digital Famio ultrasound system with "plug-and-play" technology. DICOM-compliant to guarantee seamless data transfer to other healthcare systems, the Famio was designed to produce quality grayscale imaging for effective diagnosis. The user-friendly, intuitive design includes the next generation of ergonomically friendly transducers for optimal sensitivity and resolution from near to far in any clinical situation.

ZONARE Medical Systems Inc (Mountain View, Calif). ZONARE will present three new transducers, two new calculation packages, and a host of upgrades to existing systems. Ergonomically designed for use with neonatal, infant, and pediatric patients, the new P10-4 transducer's comfortable grip makes it possible to scan through isolettes and tiny acoustic windows. The new L7-4 (WIP) vascular transducer provides 16-cm penetration for technically difficult-to-image patients, and its lightweight ergonomic design makes it easy to position. Developed for abdominal and OB/GYN sonography, the P4-1 has a small footprint, making it the transducer of choice when imaging with limited acoustic access.

Other Products

CPAC Equipment Inc (Leicester, NY). CPAC Equipment will be demonstrating AirFlo-Pro, a new portable commercial-grade air filtration system that operates with scrubs and purifies polluted air using a combination of activated carbon and high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters. The AirFlo-Pro removes dust, fumes, mold, pollen, and bacteria at their source. Lightweight, portable, and compact, the unit easily rolls to the desired location.

Fluke Biomedical, Radiation Management Services (Cleveland). The 2005–'06 Radiation Management Services Product Catalog is now available from Fluke Biomedical. The full-color tome contains more than 400 pages of technical descriptions, application notes, legacy brands, and new products. The comprehensive catalog is a "one-stop shop" for quality-assurance solutions in the diagnostic imaging, radiation oncology, and radiation safety areas.

IMCO Technologies Corp (Pewaukee, Wis). IMCO-STAT sends critical healthcare information wirelessly to where it is needed. The solution handles not only text, but images, audio clips, streaming video, and digitized hand-written notes. Compatible with existing DICOM-compliant PACS installations, the system includes an automatic return receipt, audible alerts for incoming messages, and the ability to log events (satisfying HIPAA standards).

The Sky Factory (Fairfield, Iowa). Let patients know their comfort is important to you by giving them clear skies—or at least the next best thing. The Luminous 360 SkyCeiling is available with full-spectrum 6500K fluorescent backlighting or 6000K RFfreeLux LED backlighting. Its sweeping curved perimeter mimics the natural field of vision and sense of outdoor space. With a patent-pending Elevator System and the daylight balanced systems, the Luminous 360 SkyCeiling creates the illusion of a true skylight, providing a sense of comfort and well-being.

Spineology (St Paul, Minn). Spineology will feature its flagship product, OptiMesh—deployable surgical mesh designed to contain and reinforce granular bone graft. The OptiMesh system provides physicians with a minimally invasive way of delivering a densely compacted, load-bearing graft pack capable of reducing deformity and providing support. The company also will showcase its hands-on courses for physicians, which will take place throughout 2006.

Staco Energy Products Co (Dayton, Ohio). Staco Energy will introduce its UniStar IIILA series single-phase online UPS, which features protection over a wide input voltage range at an affordable price. The IIILA's Smart Battery Management System continuously monitors battery status and recharges as necessary. Also on display will be a new line of StacoSine Active Harmonic Filters, which are installed with minimal analysis and no downtime. The filters are available as stand-alone systems or are designed to work with other power-quality and power-distribution equipment.

The Sky Factory will showcase its Luminous 360 SkyCeiling, and Xenogen will demonstrate its IVIS 3-D Imaging System at RSNA 2005.

Xenogen Corp (Alameda, Calif). Designed to provide researchers with better data earlier in the drug-discovery process, the new IVIS 3-D Imaging System is the first commercial 3-D biophotonic imaging system. The noninvasive system enables scientists to better visualize, track, and understand biological processes in living animals, in real time. Incorporating luciferase—the enzyme that makes fireflies and some bacteria glow—into living animals provides a window into exploration and analysis of gene expression, cellular pathways, drug/target interactions, and the mechanism of action of drugs. The detailed surface topography measurements provided by the IVIS 3-D Imaging System are ideal for coregistering with other modalities, such as CT and MRI.

Dana Hinesly is a contributing writer for Medical Imaging.