New Advanced Image Processing Improves X-Ray Diagnosis

With new advanced image processing (AIP) technology developed for X-ray systems, physicians will be able to better visualize even the smallest interventional devices and provide better patient care to patients undergoing interventional procedures.

At this year's American College of Cardiology (ACC) annual meeting in Chicago, IL, USA, March 30-April 1, 2008, Toshiba Medical Systems, Inc. (Tokyo, Japan) presented its Advanced Image Processing (AIP) technology for its Infinix X-ray product line.

"The image quality offered by Toshiba's Infinix line, particularly the AIP feature, is remarkable,” said Dr. John S. Wilson, medical director, cardiovascular services, Washington Hospital. "AIP allows us to image bariatric patients, which was difficult to do before. It also gives us reduced background noise and improved device and vessel visualization, which allows us to increase workflow and provide better patient care during our interventional procedures.”

Benefits of the technology include: 1) a programmable image display; the system works with new software to allow clinicians the ability to optimize image viewing based on clinical preferences. 2) Reduced background noise for fluoroscopic and digital acquisition imaging: this new processing is designed to compress background noise and enable physicians to better see vasculature and cardiac devices. 3) Improved device and vessel visualization: AIP enhances contrast, improving the ability to see vessels and devices without increasing the overall image noise. 4) Improved resolution in dark areas: AIP combined with high-resolution flat panel detectors allow vessels near dense anatomic areas to be seen more easily. 5) improved dynamic range significantly reduces the blurring effect that can sometimes occur in areas of high contrast (i.e., heart tissue to lung field), providing a much clearer image for clinicians to review.

Toshiba presented AIP in conjunction with its Infinix VF-i/SP X-ray system, a universal cardiovascular system designed to accommodate diagnostic and interventional procedures. Developed based on the popular Infinix-i series platform, the new floor-mounted, single plane system features a multi-axis positioner with extremely versatile movement for excellent patient access and anatomical coverage, including head-to-toe, finger tip-to-finger tip coverage. These features allow clinicians to complete procedures more quickly and comfortably than conventional systems, reducing procedure times and improving overall departmental workflow. In addition, a high-resolution 12”x16” flat panel detector provides the uniform, distortion-free images required for the full range of cardiovascular studies.


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