Advanced visualization extends imagings reach

The utilization of advanced visualization technology in diagnostic imaging is much more than exquisite 3D modeling of complex exam data; the applications are delivering capabilities for faster diagnosis as well as increasing the success rate for surgical interventions.

For example, a prospective study on the application of a 3D isotropic sequence to MR arthrography demonstrated that it provides a speedier imaging exam with no loss of diagnostic accuracy.

Compared with conventional MR arthrography, the 3D protocol leads to decreased motion artifacts, increased convenience of the patient, and improved and more accurate diagnosis because of increased resolution, according to scientists at Samsung Medical Center in Seoul, Korea, who developed the technique.

The upcoming 2010 Olympic Winter Games are not Vancouver, B.C.’s only claim to fame.  The city’s General Hospital Site has delivered a technique that facilitates a “one-stop” diagnosis of growing lung nodules by means of CT image-guided video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) excision biopsy and immediate frozen-section histopathologic examination.

By adding a 3D CT microcoil localization technique to fluoroscopically guided VATS excision of small lung nodules, the clinicians were able to increase the success rate of VATS excision to 97 percent compared with the reported 54 percent success rate with a non-guided approach.

In other news, if you or your group is interested in finding out more about the capabilities of advanced visualization technology and how it can extend the reach of diagnostic imaging, head over to our Healthcare TechGuide and check out the variety of systems offered there.

Lastly, if you have a comment or report to share about the utilization of advanced visualization technology in your practice, please contact me at the address below. I look forward to hearing from you.

Jonathan Batchelor, Web Editor
jbatchelor@trimedmedia.com