Karen Sandrick

Miniaturization gives portable units functions once available only in cart-based systems.

Image-guided intensity-modulated radiotherapy, high-intensity focused ultrasound, and cryotherapy are increasing the curative treatment options for men with prostate cancer. The problem is how to determine which patients are most suitable for these therapies.

Conventional radiography/fluoroscopyhas always been cumbersome.

Since full-field mammographystarted going digital eight yearsago, systems based on flat-panelarrays have dominated. But computedradiography has begun seeping intothat market and, if the FDA allowsCR companies to apply for streamlined510(k) approval of mammographyupgrades, the trickle of CR productscould turn into a flood.

Computer-aided detection is evolving from an interesting technological trapping to a standard of care. Part of that process involves the ongoing iterative advancement expected to be on display at the RSNA meeting.

Cedara Software is developing a computer-assisted detection system for breast ultrasound. The software, announced as a work-in-progress at the RSNA meeting, is intended to identify the sonographic characteristics of benign as well as malignant breast masses and to classify the extent of malignancy for specific nodules.

Medison has added digital multibeam processing to its SonoAce 8000 SE mid-level ultrasound system. The new capability, shown at the RSNA meeting, increases frame rates during both color and 2D imaging and supports harmonic imaging to enhance clarity and spatial resolution. Features include multibeam color and Doppler imaging and pulsed-wave spectral Doppler.