GE and Mayo Clinic have received a nearly $6 million NIH grant to research a standalone MRI machine dedicated to scanning of the brain. The research would focus on both the development of the device and how it would be implemented in a clinical setting. Because up to a third of all MRI scans today are performed on the brain, a dedicated stand-alone unit that is smaller and cheaper may help improve clinical outcomes and be more cost efficient.
The intention is that a dedicated high-field scanner could offer a more specialized imaging approach and a greater range of functionality for neurological imaging compared to the current one-size-fits-all concept of whole-body MRI imaging. The goal of the program is ultimately to understand and address the technical issues involved in dedicated MR imaging of the brain.
This NIH-funded collaboration between GE and Mayo Clinic illustrates an emerging trend of more specialized imaging systems. With a dedicated approach, MRI scanners can be more specifically tailored and designed for neurological imaging applications that potentially lead to improved image quality and a more comfortable experience for the patient. It will also potentially enable smaller, lighter designs that increase the accessibility of MRI to remote settings and regions where the technology is currently unavailable. The project is closely aligned with GE’s healthymagination initiative, which is built on a global commitment to reduce costs, improve quality and expand access to healthcare for millions of people.
Compared to equivalent field strength whole-body MRI scanner, GE’s prototype scanner will be designed to deliver the same (or better) quality images, but from a scanner that is only one-third the size and significantly lighter.
Beyond removing major siting barriers, GE researchers will be incorporating new image analysis tools and easier-to-use operating systems and interfaces that expand the system’s imaging capabilities and would enable more healthcare professionals to acquire diagnostic images. For example, new “one-touch” features are being developed that will simplify the programming of image settings from dozens of complex inputs to a single control.
Link: GE Researches Dedicated MRI Brain Scanner Technology …
Advanced Cardiac Therapeutics, Inc. has received the European CE Mark for its TEMPASURE cardiac ablation catheter. The device is capable of measuring local temperature of the treatment area, helping prevent overheating, while delivering saline irrigation.
Approximately 90 percent of people are carrying the herpes simplex virus, but the virus spends most of its time in a dormant state which has proven difficult to research. Now, scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGB have developed a 3D herpes infection model which they are now using to study the virus’ dormant state. The investigators claim their research will aid in the testing of future cold sore treatments by reducing the need for animal testing.
MedeGrip, a simple foam device for working with small or breakable things in the clinic or on the floor, has received the European CE Mark of approval. It was less than a month ago that MedeGrip was successfully registered with the FDA as a Class 1 device and Access Scientific included it as part of the POWERWAND Maximum Barrier Kit.
By using intelligent timing, Astonish TF pinpoints the location of events with greater precision, leading to what the company claims is an up to 30% greater contrast resolution compared with non-TOF equipped systems.
Results from a multicenter European study, that was presented at at the 2011 Digestive Disease Week conference, indicate that Cook Medical’s 19-gauge EchoTip ProCore High Definition Ultrasound Biopsy Needle can aid gastroenterologists in diagnosing multiple types of cancers in a variety of target tissues with a high degree of accuracy.
ConvaTec (Skillman, NJ) has announced a thinner version of its Versiva XC dressing which will better conform to the patient’s body. Versiva XC dressing incorporates the company’s Hydrofiber technology, which helps trap fluids, removing bacteria from the wound site and helping maintain an ideal moisture balance.
AngioDynamics has expanded its VenaCure EVLT product line for treatment of varicose veins with a new 1470nm laser. This is the first 1470nm wavelength laser of its kinds to feature a gold tip jacket.
