GE unwraps handcarried ultrasound unit

GE unwraps handcarried ultrasound unit
GE Healthcare this week formally launched its hand-carried Venue ultrasound product. The Venue 40 is designed for use at the patient bedside and during minimally invasive procedures. The company is framing the new product as the means for easily visualizing anatomy for biopsy guidance and line placement.

Philips, Bruker focus on novel imaging approach
Bruker BioSpin will build magnetic particle imaging (MPI) scanners for the preclinical market under an alliance struck by Bruker and Philips. Under the terms of the memorandum of understanding signed by the two companies, Bruker BioSpin intends to develop and manufacture preclinical MPI scanners at its facilities in Ettlingen, Germany. Both parties intend to co-market the resulting product. Developed by scientists at Philips, MPI produces 3D images of magnetic iron-oxide nanoparticles injected into the bloodstream, promising new information at organ, cellular, and molecular levels. The partnership combines Philips’ strength in medical imaging and Bruker BioSpin’s expertise in analytical MR instruments and preclinical MRI.

Toshiba signs purchasing deal
Midwest Ultrasound, a provider of mobile ultrasound, has purchased 11 Xario XG ultrasound systems from Toshiba America Medical Systems as part of a two-year purchase agreement. The systems will be utilized at various rural and community hospitals, including The Christ Hospital in Cincinnati, OH. Midwest Ultrasound, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Christ Hospital, plans to purchase additional systems for use at other clients during the course of the partnership.

MITA takes new chief
David Fisher will lead the Medical Imaging and Technology Alliance, a division of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association representing the makers of medical imaging equipment. Currently the senior health policy advisor for the Senate Budget Committee, Fisher has held senior level jobs during the last 12 years in the federal government, including the House of Representatives and Senate. Recently he served as the associate director of the Office of Management and Budget, where he oversaw the Departments of Health and Human Services, Education and Labor, the Social Security Administration, Railroad Retirement Board, and a number of programs administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.