SIIM Preview: Imaging Informatics Branches Out Across the Enterprise

The Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine (SIIM) is hosting its 2007 Annual Meeting from June 7-10 in Providence, R.I. This year’s theme — “Imaging Informatics for the Enterprise” — is aimed at capturing the scope of the program and the expanded focus of the society that began a year ago.

SIIM has planned a new general session that includes a live workflow demonstration highlighting some of the practical issues involved with large data sets. Other highlights include a SIIM University session that investigates “Enterprise Integration Strategies toward the Multimedia EHR.”  In addition, three “hot topic” sessions address various topics such as procedure room workflow in the interventional radiology/cardiology suite, PACS/RIS replacement, and leveraging IT for quality and safety.

Highlights from this year’s vendor exhibit — with more than 150 companies — are contained below.

For more on the meeting and educational opportunities, visit www.siim2007.org

Acuo Technologies (Booth #1211) is highlighting its DICOM Services Grid as an enabling open systems software solution for all DICOM objects to facilitate a DICOM infrastructure built on a service-oriented architecture that can aggregate query results, federate DICOM objects, virtualize and replicate storage assets built on a collaborative and extensible grid computing model.

AFC Industries (Booth #910) is introducing its space-saving i-Center, a wall-mounted workstation that enables computer access wherever needed without utilizing floor space. The i-Center features a fold-down keyboard tray with a damper for smooth operation and a VESA-compliant monitor holder. It accommodates any standard computer and turns empty wall space into a handy work area.

Agfa HealthCare (Booth #223) is demonstrating its latest works-in-progress — IMPAX 6.3, PACS) that offers tools for complex multi-site environments, such as multi-site data synchronization, access to reports from across the enterprise and the management of multiple distinct patient ID domains.

Other products and services to be displayed include:

• IMPAX Data Center – a unified view of a single patient;
• IMPAX Clinical Module – brings disparate clinical data such as lab results, pharmacy and pathology to the IMPAX Radiology Desktop;
• DX-S – A fully integrated, compact digital imaging system;
• CR 30-X – a compact table-top CR that offers seamless integration from x-ray exposure to print or softcopy;
• iPlan – a web-based scheduling module;
• Enterprise Clinical Portal – provides physicians access to clinical information from disparate systems through a single sign-on unified view;
• Cardiology – a vendor-neutral cardiovascular PACS and CVIS; and
• Digital Mammography Workstation – a vendor neutral diagnostic display station.

Amicas (Booth #423) is showing its new RadStream workflow product built to increase radiologist productivity that supports the automation and documentation of results communication, and integrates disparate PACS viewers within the Amicas RealTime Worklist. Other products being shown include: Vision Reach, a tool focused specifically on providing service to referring physicians; Vision Series PACS 6.0, the next generation of the company’s web-based workstation; and Insight Dashboards, with real-time analytical data for managing the increasingly complex business of radiology with intuitive web-based business intelligence and analysis package.

Amirsys (Booth #702) is highlighting its STATdx clinical decision support system that is designed to support radiologists by increasing speed, accuracy and diagnostic confidence in complex cases. STATdx streamlines workflow by reducing the time required to research and complete a difficult imaging analysis. Its digital format lets radiologists have access to on-demand reference tools at any time.

Anthro Corporation (Booth #817) is demonstrating the Elevate Corner PACS workstation that utilizes corner spaces, as well as acting as an L-shaped configuration. The shelf height can be adjusted with the touch of a button.
The L-shaped surface is 72 inches wide by 29 inches deep on each side. The entire work surface will house six or more flat-panel monitors to make the most of available space. Also, the Corner’s surface electrically raises and lowers with a range as low as 27 inches, up to 53 inches high.

Aspyra (Booth #1010) is demonstrating both its AccessNET PACS and AccessRAD RIS-PACS.  Both products offer scalable tools to provide efficient imaging department workflow. AccessRAD is designed for acute-care hospitals, enterprise-wide delivery networks, and large imaging enterprises. AccessNET PACS is built for management of clinical images and reports. It provides basic PACS functionality as well as management of clinical workflow. AccessNET version 6.2 includes improved HL7 and XML-based message integration capabilities, support for 64-bit workstations and servers, and it supports DICOM image exchange with Meridian’s OrthoView version 3.2.5.
 

Avnet Technology Solutions (Booth #1208) is presenting technology from EMC, HP, IBM and Sun Microsystems. Avnet also is discussing its services and programs such as its HealthPath program for educating partners on the healthcare market and helping them develop their own healthcare practices. HealthPath uses Avnet’s Market Connection, a methodology to help partners enter new markets more quickly by equipping them with the skills, tools, solutions and sales support necessary to effectively build successful and profitable practices.

Additionally, Avnet is sharing details regarding its educational service for partners, HealthPath University, a comprehensive instructional program.

Aware Inc. (Booth #700) is showcasing its AccuRad solutions, which include standards-based tools for teleradiology such as JPEG2000 compression and decompression, DICOM JPIP image streaming, and browser-based viewing of images and volumes. Aware’s AccuRad/JPIPStream toolkit enables a developer to build JPIP-compliant servers and clients. Aware’s AccuRad/DICOMView ActiveX component combines delivery and display technologies for viewing medical images in a standard browser and is easily integrated into other viewing applications.

Aycan Medical Systems (Booth #930) is showcasing its aycan xray-print product which features a wide array of output options. The DICOM paper print system is useful as a cost-effective way to provide referring physicians and patients with medical images for their reference.

The company also is demonstrating its aycan workstation OsiriX, an FDA-certified open source PACS workstation and image processing software designed for navigation and visualization of multimodality and multidimensional images.

Barco (Booth #631) is showcasing its NIO COLOR, an LCD technology for softcopy reads in multiple applications and modalities, including 3D PACS, 3D echocardiography, ultrasound, orthopedic imaging, CAD, image fusion, nuclear medicine and PET. NIO COLOR is available in 2 and 3 megapixel (MP) resolution versions.

BRIT Systems (Booth #800) is introducing its “PACS in a box” pre-configured solutions for facilities that specialize in mammography and women’s health, orthopedics and cardiology. Each solution is tailored to the precise needs of each medical domain.

BRIT also is launching an update to its mammography workstation, with the ability for clinicians to scale digitized film, a capability that is critical for examining digital images against prior exams that were captured on a film-screen system.

Canon Medical Systems (Booth #931) is highlighting its CXDI-50 Portable DR system which features a 14 x 17-inch image area with the LANMIT (Large Area New-MIS Sensor and TFT) detector technology.

Canon’s CXDI Control Software enables operators to consistently capture images based on a department’s specific imaging preferences. The software integrates a RIS with the Canon CXDI software and utilizes the procedure Code ID of the RIS to configure the exam.

Carestream Health (Booth #622), formerly Kodak Health Group, is highlighting its newest Carestream PACS that includes native 3D and cardiac features and integrated applications including orthopedic digital imaging for surgical planning, and templating and image fusion software for use by oncologists. This PACS platform, scheduled for release in June, also supports upgrades to the Carestream Mammography Workstation and equips Carestream’s virtual desktop with enhanced dynamic streaming capabilities that speed image review. An optional new digital dashboard feature provides PACS administrators with a convenient way to monitor equipment performance, storage utilization, user volumes and other important functions.

Clarkson College (Booth #506) is providing attendees with details regarding its PACS Certification curriculum which is offered both on-campus and online using distance learning tools. The PACS administrator courses can be taken in conjunction with the college’s medical imaging bachelor’s degree for radiological technologists or with its bachelor’s of science in informatics curriculum. Following completion, students will be able to take a certification exam offered through organizations such as PARCA or SIIM.

CoActiv Medical (Booth #704) is introducing at SIIM 2007 a suite of products and services designed to optimize the capabilities of teleradiology groups and other radiologists who work in multiple remote locations. New CoActiv ExamNet enables greater efficiency and fully integrated workflow among all radiology group members, wherever located. Combined with the sophisticated capabilities of CoActiv EXAM-PACS, it provides an ultra-fast, easy-to-use, anywhere, any time image management solution, including image distribution, reading and archiving.

Codonics (Booth #709) is highlighting its Horizon Multi-media Dry Imager and the Virtua Medical Disc Publisher that provide referral copy solutions to ease the transition from film to non-film based imaging. Both products can stand alone, but together, Horizon and Virtua provide a comprehensive image documentation system. Each device sits on the network, accepts DICOM images and seamlessly connects with most manufacturers’ equipment.
 
For CR/DR orthopedic applications, Codonics also offers a dry imager that supports long film output in a digital application. The Horizon XL Multi-media Imager fits on a countertop and prints an immediate, continuous image through a completely dry process.

Commissure (Booth #1323) is demonstrating its new RadWhere Peer Review, the latest module to its RadWhere structured speech-reporting solution. All facilities applying for or renewing ACR facility accreditation are required to implement RADPEER or another ACR-compliant system such as RadWhere Peer Review. The system is completely ACR-compliant and closely mirrors the RADPEER system and can optionally connect to the eRADPEER site hosted by the ACR.

Compressus (Booth #804) is showcasing its new Document Mediator Module that provides the ability to input any hardcopy document into MEDxConnect for improved access, including patient notes, physicians’ notes, reports and pertinent patient information, even when no electronic order entry is available. Also, the company is highlighting a new stand-alone version of the Systems Management Dashboard that can run on virtually any system; it provides enterprise-wide monitoring, analysis, summarized graphic and tabular viewing, and alarm notices for medical imaging activities.

Contour Design (Booth #1109) is featuring workstation navigation systems, Rx ShuttlePRO and Rx RollerMouse. With the aid of the Rx ShuttlePRO and Rx RollerMouse, radiologists can now zoom through image stacks with speed and precision. They can maximize their workflow with a new ability to map in a full range of keyboard shortcuts. The devices, which can be used independently or in conjunction, are designed to enhance image analysis, improve workflow, and end the discomfort of reaching, clicking and dragging with a conventional mouse.

Data Distributing (Booth #1123) is displaying bundled CD Writing Solutions from partner Rimage. The DICOM CD Station interfaces directly with a PACS network to query, retrieve and burn patient images and data files to CD. All applicable patient data and facility logo are indelibly printed directly onto the CD. The DICOM CD Station is designed to increase front office efficiency, eliminate film and storage expenses, and increase patient throughput. When coupled with PowerArchive application software, the versatile Rimage becomes a shelf archive system.

DatCard Systems (Booth #801) is demonstrating the newest addition to the DatCard family, MammoSmart, which provides patients with their complete mammography history and breast care information on a CD/DVD. Each disc contains educational patient information such as medical history, digital mammography images, and live video capture.

Enhancements to the company’s PacsCube software include a multi-language interface, new AutoBurn functionality, DICOM viewer and much more.

DeJarnette Research Systems (Booth #808) is discussing its establishment of a wholly owned subsidiary, DeJarnette Europe, as a sales and service organization to service the European market. DeJarnette Europe is to be headquartered in London.

Dictaphone (Booth #317) is demonstrating its PowerScribe Workstation for Radiology from Nuance speech recognition system. When integrated with PACS/RIS the system offers efficient physician-friendly radiology reporting. Used for high-accuracy, real-time speech recognition and self-editing, PowerScribe can show dramatic cost savings and speed report turnaround.

Double Black Imaging (Booth #916) is announcing a release of DBI-developed X-Cal DICOM Calibration and QA software, the company’s proprietary package for Automatic DICOM calibration and display quality assurance.

DBI also is launching DICOMetrix, a proactive DICOM image flow and network performance monitoring solution. DICOMetrix is a resource tool that enables PACS administrators and directors and IT personnel to actively monitor and historically track system performance, and alert radiology and PACS support staff about system slow-downs and outages.
 
DBI also is exhibiting a 45-inch, high-brightness, high contrast, color LCD suited for operating rooms and ERs, and 2 MP and 3 MP high-bright color LCDs with retractable front sensors for automatic DICOM calibration and QA.

DR Systems (Booth #415) is exhibiting its latest Unity RIS/PACS platform which covers the entire medical imaging exam workflow process. Notable features of the system include:

• Patient Link, designed to help hospitals and imaging centers consolidate patient records, without creation of an enterprise master patient index;
• New data conversion tools for legacy RIS/PACS replacement;
• New web-based scheduling capabilities;
• New patent-pending image display methods for improved accuracy and efficiency; and
• Enhanced integrated mammography reading, tracking, film digitizing and archiving.

Dynamic Imaging (Booth #837) is launching its IntegradWeb RIS-PACS, which integrates end-to-end, web-based workflow leveraging this architectural platform to offer ambulatory facilities a unified radiology desktop.  The system includes the following information management application modules: enterprise scheduling; pre-certification workflow; clinical workflow; document management; exam visualization; transcription and dictation; distribution and storage; billing and claims management; and management reporting.

EDDA Technology (Booth #710) is showcasing its IQQA-Chest Enterprise application for digital chest x-ray. IQQA-Chest Enterprise is an FDA-cleared system that offers real-time, interactive diagnostic analysis of digital chest x-rays.
 
IQQA-Chest Enterprise provides instant, on-demand deployment of the full functionality of the CAD application on existing PACS review consoles throughout the enterprise. 

At the show, EDDA also is showcasing IQQA-Liver which provides radiologists with comprehensive tools to review all acquired phases simultaneously with automatic anatomic phase registration.

Eizo Nanao Corporation (Booth #1229) is emphasizing its RadiForce GX510-CLG, featuring Eizo’s glare panel tech-nol-ogy specially designed to meet the high resolution and high contrast ratio demands for FDA certified mammography diagnosis. Eizo’s complete lineup of 1 MP to 5 MP monochrome and color medical display monitors with DICOM calibration and high-performance capabilities also will be showcased.

Emageon (Booth #915) is demonstrating its MammoSuite and OrthoSuite products as well as new desktop integrations with Vital Images, PowerScribe and Allscripts to enhance physician workflow and productivity.

EMC Corporation (Booth #301) is showcasing some of its latest data protection and archiving systems and other solutions that enable healthcare organizations of all sizes to intelligently store, protect, optimize and leverage patient information. The company is emphasizing the importance of maintaining a highly-available and secure information infrastructure where PACS, EMR/EHR, imaging informatics, and CPOE applications are deployed and integrated with clinical practice.

Empiric Systems (Booth #217) is previewing its Encompass.NET 5.0, the company’s latest, web-based, fully integrated, single database, RIS-PACS/billing system. New additions from previous versions include an entirely re-engineered GUI, “profile-based” advanced scheduling, embedded instant messaging, web-based charting/graphing of management reports, radiologist-designed web viewer/workflow, and RightFax integration.

Etiam (Booth #330) is focusing on PACS import software applications for film library staffs. The company’s Open LiteBox allows users to easily identify and display studies on the CD even if they are mislabeled. Users can edit the patient and examination identifiers to match those of the institution, and send the edited studies to the PACS efficiently so that another CD can be quickly processed. The company’s products have been specially adapted to support the widest range of DICOM image CDs produced in the industry.

Fujifilm Medical Systems (Booth #1001) is showcasing its new high-capacity, dual-drive CR reader, the XG2000. The XG2000 has the redundancy of two independent cassette insertion slots and the speed to display images in as little as 24 seconds. With a throughput of up to 165 images an hour, the XG2000 is suited for centralized applications or any environment where quick image availability is critical. The XG2000 also offers optional field upgrades to the four drive XG5000.

GE Healthcare (Booth #615) is featuring its Centricity Imaging-PACS version 3.0, with new IHE profiles to automate exam acquisition, reporting, and communication for referring physicians. The system also has an updated LINUX. Other additional features include decision-support tools such as Business Intelligence Portal to help maximize resources; enhanced security features; and new voice-driven commands and configurable worklists.

GE also is showcasing Centricity AW Suite 2 (Advantage Workstation), combining the advanced visualization tools from AW software within Centricity Imaging-PACS. Centricity AW Suite 2 offers five optional modules such as CardIQ (cardiology), Advanced Lung Analysis (oncology), Advanced Vessel Analysis (cardiovascular), Autobone and CT colonography. Additionally, specific tools for CT, MR, PET/CT, and x-ray are now fully enabled on any networked PACS PC, with 3D imaging capabilities.
GE’s Centricity Radiology allows radiologists and other care providers to manage workflow and leverage a common radiology information system across various geographical locations.

Hewlett Packard (Booth #605) is demonstrating multi-tier storage systems for PACS through its HP StorageWorks products that have been qualified by several major PACS vendors for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 (long-term archival) storage. The system uses intelligent software encoded policies to simplify migration of images between HP StorageWorks platforms.

Hologic (Booth #515) is emphasizing workflow productivity in women’s health with its SecurView Workstations that add flexibility and support to busy imaging centers by allowing radiologists to review and interpret images in an interactive fashion. Also, R2 computer-aided detection technology provides radiologists with a valuable interpretive tool for early detection of breast cancer.

Images-on-Call (Booth #1300) is highlighting its full array of components to streamline PACS and teleradiology system integration, including DICOM connectivity and internet transmission via IOC Sockets and IOC Telerad Private Network (TNP) products. Also look for the company’s workstations; film digitizers, and a HIPAA-compliant remote imaging device called IOC QuickView Key.

INFINITT North America (INA) (Booth #902) is focusing on augmentation of its customer service and technical support capabilities, including both human and technology resources. The company recently implemented a call tracking application to effectively increase INA’s levels of support, while eliminating communication problems with its customers.

InSiteOne (Booth #815) is showcasing its suite of InDex web-enabled archiving services combining on-and-off storage with built-in disaster recovery. InDex integrates seamlessly with any PACS, HIS and digital modality via DICOM standards.

Intelerad (Booth #1223) is highlighting new tools within its IntelePACS including a DICOM Site License, allowing users to query another PACS or any other external DICOM source using InteleViewer Enterprise, the native IntelePACS viewer. Also new in InteleViewer is spine labeling with 3D coordinates, so labels can be seen in any other series at the corresponding position, mask subtraction for digital subtraction angiography (DSA), permitting the visualization of blood vessels, and integration with the dictation tool PowerScribe.

Intuitive Imaging Informatics (I3) (Booth #1304) is highlighting enhancements to its Rational Imaging PACS including PET Fusion, maximum intensity projection (MIP) imaging and mammography reading stations.

Also, recent advancements on the ImageQube web-based PACS encompass the support of paperless workflow, teleradiography scheduling, instant messaging and teaching files.

Konica Minolta Medical Imaging USA (Booth #731) is demonstrating a new software upgrade for the REGIUS Xpress CR to enhance the system’s versatility and provide more accurate and useful QA/QC tools. Software version 2.21R01 supports the use of a 17-inch monitor, which provides higher resolution images at a fixed resolution of 1280 x 1024. This larger viewing screen serves as a more accurate QA tool while aiding technologists with identifying patient movement.

Konica Minolta also is launching the REGIUS Nano CR, a single bay CR system. The compact system is aimed at low-procedure volume facilities and ancillary departments.

Matrox (Booth #904) is unveiling several new technologies in its booth and showcasing its Matrox MED Series, Matrox RAD Series and Matrox AuroraVX Series display controller boards shown in various configurations with medical grade displays from various partners.

McKesson (Booth #923) is highlighting its Horizon Medical Imaging PACS. Core features include: Auto Inclusion Fields that make it easier for users to create radiology reports via templates that automatically pull study- and patient-related information from the Horizon Medical Imaging database; and McKesson’s Horizon Medical Imaging ER Discrepancy Tracking tool facilitates communication and concurrence of diagnoses between the ER and radiology.

The company also is demonstrating its Horizon Radiology integrated RIS-PACS, Horizon Cardiology cardiovascular information solution (CVIS), and Horizon Optical Imaging image management solution.

Medicalis Corporation (Booth #1111) is highlighting up--graded capabilities for the management of pre-authorization requests for Radiology Benefits Management (RBM) programs. Medicalis is the developer of Percipio radiology solutions which provide clinical decision support and order entry applications that improve the quality, efficiency and utilization of diagnostic imaging. 

MedQuist (Booth #601) is featuring its SpeechQ for Radiology front-end speech recognition. The system offers a combination of accuracy and integration with leading RIS-PACS solutions built to optimize radiologists’ workflow to improve report turn-around time and documentation costs.

Mercury Computer Systems (Booth #809) is presenting its Visage CS Thin Client/Server with a new vessel tool-card for defining and tracing vessel paths, curved planar reformatting or straightened-out lumen view. Also look for Visage Cardiac CT Analysis and Visage PACS updates.

Merge Healthcare (Booth #1317) is showcasing its Fusion RIS/PACS MX with a single workflow application which is relevant to all medical imaging clinical and business concerns. With exam-driven workflow and a single source of access to all patient information, duplicative and/or missing data are reduced. Also, the system’s customizable, intuitive worklists and embedded tools, such as document management, are constructed to enhance a user’s productivity and help imaging businesses reduce report turn-around times.

MIMvista (Booth #1216) is demonstrating the latest in its MIMviewer product with tools for immediate remote viewing of PET/CT archives. MIMviewer is now available in two new forms: MIMviewer Referring and MIMviewer Diagnostic. MIMviewer Referring gives physicians PET/CT review capabilities in a lightweight viewer. MIMviewer Diagnostic additionally supports creation of referring CD’s and incorporates additional functionality.

NAI Tech Products (Booth #609) is emphasizing its video capture, DICOM network connectivity, network and modality-based media burners and print management systems used in diagnostic imaging applications, surgery, and PACS. NAI is offering product demonstrations and information on MDR, DICOM box and PACS Print Server Software.

NEC Display Solutions (Booth #1031) is showcasing its MultiSync MD Series 21.3-inch, grayscale, 2-, 3- and 5 MP. This medically certified series include: The X-Light backlight system (2MP and 3MP models) for consistent brightness and white point levels; and GammaComp MD software with a simple interface for conformance to the DICOM standard and a QA environment for medical imaging;

The company is also showing its NEC MultiSync 90 Series for review of soft-copy clinical images in a PACS. The displays are available in 1MP and 2MP color 19-inch to 21.3 inch standard 4:3 aspect ratio sizes as well as 2.3 MP color 24- and 26-inch 16:10 widescreen options.

NeoTool (Booth #823) is launching the latest release of its NeoIntegrate 3.1 interface engine to speed delivery of HL7 and XML interfaces for healthcare providers and vendors. The engine simplifies connection to EHR systems, RIS, PACS, and other clinical systems. Key features of the new release include quick navigation; combined testing features and development activities; and graphical, hierarchical views.

NetApp Healthcare (Booth #1125) is showcasing and presenting for data permanence, security, encryption, and information lifecycle management. NetApp is focusing on how its services can help reduce complexity and costs associated with enterprise storage with the advantages of online file system expansion, superior data availability, ease of scalability and adaptability, faster backup and recovery, secure data permanence, and simplified management.

Neurostar (Booth #905) is debuting enhancements to its Virtual Radiology Network (VRN) designed to support workflow for radiology groups reading for multiple facilities and to provide a specialized platform for orthopedists.
Neurostar’s Virtual Practice Management (VPM) suite is an optional VRN module providing comprehensive tools for managing an outsourced radiology services business.

Also, the company’s new Virtual Orthopedic Network (VON) supports specialized orthopedic workflow, combining on- and off-site modules to streamline workflow within the individual orthopedic office, across multiple locations and throughout the continuum of care.

NightHawk Radiology Services (Booth #937) is highlighting its Talon Workflow Solutions, the engine that drives the company’s teleradiology solutions throughout the U.S.

NovaRad (Booth #723) is featuring its NovaPACS 6.6 with embedded MIP (maximum intensity projection) and MPR (multiplanar reconstruction) tools to build and view 3D images directly from the PACS workstation. The MIP and MPR tools embedded in NovaPACS eliminate the need for radiologists to do post-processing reconstructions from the modalities and for technologists to redo reconstructions specified by the radiologists.

Additionally, BIOPOD, a HIPAA-compliant fingerprint touch login solution is now available for NovaPACS and its companion radiology information system, NovaRIS.

Orthoview (Booth #924) is launching its latest software, OrthoView 5, with a new element that grants users the ability to visualize the bending of trauma templates on-screen, called Plate bending. Surgeons bend plates during surgery to fit particular bones. This is difficult to plan in advance using conventional x-rays, and therefore the ability to visualize this procedure on-screen is of benefit.

Another major feature of Version 5 software is the new Limb Deformity Module. This facilitates planning of full leg and single bone osteotomies, with the ability to plan deformities in the frontal, sagittal or oblique plane.

PACSGEAR (Booth #901) is bringing to SIIM its new PACS-GEAR MediaWriter, a small-footprint CD/DVD burner that labels as it spins. MediaWriter writes DICOM files to CDs/DVDs, USB memory sticks or flash memory with one click.

Pegasus Imaging Corporation (Booth #1114) is showcasing its JPEG 2000 Part 2 implementation for 3D volumetric encoding, within the PICTools MedX Software Development Kit (SDK). The JPEG 2000 Part 2 - 3D slices volumetric encoding supports 24-bit RGB and 8-16 bit grayscale medical images. Software developers may compress and decompress images using JPEG 2000 Part 2 - 3D volumetric encoding, as used in the DICOM standard in the medical imaging industry.

Philips Medical Systems (Booth #331) is highlighting a number of technologies, including its iSite PACS versions 3.5 and 4.0 which enable enterprise-wide access to diagnostic-quality images and relevant information.

Philips’ iSite Advanced Visualization brings interactive advanced visualization tools to all caregivers by means of iSyntax integration. These tools offer transparent access to slab MPR, MIP and advanced volume visualization for improved results sharing.

The company’s Xcelera Cardiovascular Information Solution is an integrated solution that unites information from all cardiology imaging modalities such as interventional cardiology, cardiovascular ultrasound, cardiac CT, cardiac MR, nuclear cardiology and electrophysiology. 

Planar (Booth #1000) is showing the Dome E5, E3, E3c, E4c and the RE4c (surgery review cart with the E4c). In addition, the company is featuring the newly introduced Planar GX2MP, a color display for clinical use that offers 1200 x 1600 resolution with a fast 16ms response time, and comes DICOM calibrated with Dome CXtra software. The new 40-inch GX40 has a wide viewing angle, high contrast and high brightness suited for viewing in the OR. The GX40 has a long backlight life, low power consumption and a fanless design and comes complete with Dome CXtra software for DICOM calibration.

Plasmon (Booth #911) is announcing the Archive Appliance Express, a new product developed specifically to address the needs of small-to-medium-sized medical businesses (SMBs). Similar to the Plasmon UDO Archive Appliance, the Archive Appliance Express allows data to be cached on RAID for quick access while being immediately committed to UDO for long-term retention. The Archive Appliance Express ships with one UDO2 optical drive, two SATA drives, as well as 170 GB of usable cache.

RADinfo Systems (Booth #701) is highlighting the PowerPACS Web Server Plus, a web-based information management system that offers: web-based DICOM image serving; access to entire online DICOM image archive; downloading DICOM images on demand; handling large studies; viewer works with true DICOM objects and utilization of DICOM image parameters in image diagnosis tools; and support for structured reports, ECG and hemodynamic waveforms, encapsulated documents, presentation states, graphic annotations, bitmap planes, and key image notes.

RamSoft (Booth #1210) is demonstrating its PowerServer PACS and RamSoft One RIS-PACS/billing software, with new features: study bookmarking — enabling physicians to pick up reading at the exact point they left off; study linking — allowing reading physicians to simultaneously compare images from studies across multiple medical records; smart compare mode — allowing RamSoft advanced hanging protocols to automatically choose the most relevant prior studies for image comparison; and full integration with Nuance’s Dictaphone PowerScribe.

RedRick Technologies (Booth #1113) is showcasing methods through which radiology groups can create a more collaborative environment for the reading room. It is hoped that by creating such a space, there will be a subsequent increase in the productivity and effectiveness of the group.
 

Richardson Electronics (Booth #311) is displaying its complete, site-specific medical imaging display solutions for hospitals and healthcare facilities of all sizes. Look for the company’s latest displays for color and grayscale diagnostic and clinical review, operating room imaging, mammography, modality replacement and other applications.

Riverain Medical (Booth #1118) is highlighting RapidScreen, an FDA-PMA approved chest x-ray CAD system to assist radiologists in the detection of early-stage lung cancer. RapidScreen quickly identifies solitary pulmonary nodules between 9 and 30 mm and other suspicious nodules on the original standard AP/PA chest x-ray, providing a virtual second pair of eyes for the radiologist. RapidScreen is used with the radiologist’s existing workstation, eliminating the need for a separate workstation.

Sage Software (Booth #907) is showcasing its Intergy PACS by Sage, which is driven by Dynamic Imaging’s IntegradWeb PACS. The system offers web-based architecture and provides access to images, reports and patient information from any location.
Intergy PACS also provides a comprehensive archiving system within an advanced, on-demand architecture that provides optional clustering for high availability, along with cost effective disaster recovery solutions.

ScImage (Booth #1004) is highlighting its multi-department PicomEnterprise PACS and workflow management system that employs a single database to organize, categorize, store and distribute information from multiple departments. This data can be in the form of DICOM and non-DICOM images, clinical reporting, physician dictations, ECG waveforms, JPEG photos or MPEG videos. ScImage supports IHE workflow profiles for radiology, cardiac cath and echocardiography. PicomEnterprise also delivers exam specific visualization tools for review of ECGs, echocardiography studies, cardiac cath procedures, nuclear medicine viewing, multi-detector CT, PET/CT exams, MRI or chest x-rays. The system also includes a built-in RIS.

Siemens Display Technologies (Booth #1311) is showing the new SCD21310, a 3 MP PACS color display with Dual Link DVI support. The LCD allows color point adjustment for optimized display matching. This 21-inch CCFL-based display features 400cd/m2 typical brightness and 400:1 contrast ratio.

The company is adding a new cost-efficient 1 MP color display, the SCD 19110, which offers high luminance (up to 300 cd/m2) and a contrast ratio of 1000:1. The three pre-calibrated internal look up tables (LUT) allow the user to easily select the appropriate settings for the application at hand.

Siemens Medical Solutions (Booth #501) is showcasing its syngo Workflow, syngo Imaging, syngo Dynamics systems and the company’s relationship with NextGen Healthcare.

syngo Workflow drives the radiology workflow from order entry to image and report distribution. As it is part of the syngo Suite, there are no additional expenses for data reconciliation of the RIS and PACS databases and for the maintenance of a broker.

syngo Imaging includes tools such as Smart Select that enables access to the most frequently needed functions directly in the diagnostic screen. The Dynamic Loading feature saves radiologist time by providing images the instant they are called up. And advanced processing functions, including 3D and other image-processing functions, such as Fly Through and Virtual endoscopy, can be performed at one workstation.

Siemens’ scalable syngo Dynamics enables evidence-based reporting to improve the efficiency of clinical procedures for cardiology, general imaging and OB/GYN.

Finally, through collaboration with NextGen Healthcare, the company’s RIS-PACS has a new and advanced level of interoperability between image management and practice management.

Sorna (Booth #1009) is showcasing new standalone software dubbed Reviewer that features the ability to download images to an Apple iPod. The software has been designed to simplify, automate, and expedite the process of importing diagnostic images and reports from DICOM CDs and DVDs, other DICOM sources, and non-DICOM CDs produced by Amicas’ PACS.

The Reviewer contains both manual and automated tools for efficient patient re-identification and accurate importing of outside data into a PACS.

Sorna also is demonstrating its eXpedo DICOM CD/DVD publishing system, release 2.4, which features an enhanced user interface.

TeraRecon (Booth #531) is demonstrating its new AQPlaque suite of vascular analysis tools for its Aquarius product line. The toolkit enables researchers to investigate and evaluate a range of parameters from CT or MR images of vascular structures including coronary arteries, as a standard feature from standalone Aquarius Workstations or the AquariusNET thin-client software.

U.S. Electronics (Booth #404) is introducing the Model ME355i2 monochrome 20.8-inch, 3 MP LCD display with Sentinel II Front sensor technology to aid DICOM remote calibration. The monitor has been developed for multi-modality PACS.

Vidar (Booth #509) is highlighting its DiagnosticPRO Advantage, with advances such as a mean time between failure (MTBF) rate of > 50,000, a modular 25-sheet film feeder, and a field replaceable LED illuminator system.

The product also has high-resolution capabilities (44.5 microns) for digitizing mammography films, and offers larger spot size options for digitizing general radiographic, CT, MR, ultrasound, and nuclear medicine films.

The company’s CAD PRO Advantage film digitizer has been specifically designed for mammography CAD, emphasizing image quality, film feeding and transport, and system speed.

The CAD PRO is able to digitize a four-film case in less than 120 seconds. In addition, its modular design allows easy access for scheduled maintenance and field serviceable parts replacement to minimize downtime.

Finally, the company is showcasing its VIDAR VISION 4000 DR system designed for all radiography environments.

Virtual Radiologic (Booth #1201) is demonstrating its Interpretation Services and Infrastructure Solutions that provide 24/7/365 access to more than 80 specialized, U.S.-trained and American Board of Radiology-certified physicians delivering both preliminary and final interpretations. Virtual Radiologic’s Infrastructure Solutions is a package of both teleradiology technologies and services.

Vital Images (Booth #1217) is launching its next-generation Vitrea, version 4.0 and ViTAL-Connect, version 4.1. En-hance-ments include: third-party support for data reconciliation; shared authentication and authorization capabilities;
the ability to launch directly into comparative study reviews; new web-based cardiovascular analysis functionality, including Vessel Probe; and increased scalability.