3D Image Processing Software Developed Based on Video Game Technology

An innovative medical imaging application that utilizes sophisticated video game technology creates extremely high-quality three-dimensional (3D) and two-dimensional (2D) image reformations from computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans at a fraction of the cost of current medical imaging technology.

FiatLux Imaging, Inc. (Redmond, WA, USA), a high-tech company founded by former Microsoft software veterans, announced that it received U.S. Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 510k clearance for its FiatLux Visualize in August 2008. Engineers at FiatLux Imaging have utilized the functionality of DirectX game programming protocols to create a powerful, easy-to-use medical image analysis tool for use by physicians virtually anywhere, at anytime.

Now available for purchase at under US$3,000, FiatLux Visualize runs on off-the-shelf personal computers (PCs) and laptops with standard graphics cards, and offers healthcare professionals a cost-effective and portable alternative to conventional, expensive, dedicated 3D/2D processing workstations, which typically have been restricted to hospital radiology departments and radiology centers. This flexible approach potentially broadens the use of 3D/2D image post-processing in surgical planning and patient consultation. It is of particular benefit to neurosurgeons, cardiologists, and orthopedists, as well as other specialists such as surgeons.

FiatLux Visualize provides physicians with an efficient way of viewing CT and MRI scans that also provides useful information in certain medical applications. Its affordable price and ease-of-use hold promise to bring sophisticated medical imaging and analysis to populations in rural areas and developing countries, where they typically have not been available.

FiatLux Imaging CEO Mary Frances Feider reported that by utilizing the DirectX game programming technology that enables today's most popular video games is the key to providing the level of detail and vivid realism in FiatLux Visualize at a lower price point. "DirectX programming technology was designed to take full advantage of performance advances in video graphics hardware,” commented Ms. Feider. "Harnessing the power and superior graphics capability of game technology for use in the medical imaging field brings a new level of affordable quality and accessibility to physicians and their patients.”

FiatLux Imaging is developing next-generation medical imaging software systems including 3D advanced visualization and analysis for MRI and CT and digital radiography for use by neurosurgeons, cardiologists, orthopedists, oncologists, and other image dependent providers, along with radiology departments.

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