Technique Transforms Computed Radiography by Automating Image Processing

New computed radiography (CR) image processing technology is a patented, innovative technique that optimizes image quality while eliminating the need to define and select image processing parameters for each body part and orientation. This simplified image acquisition process uses a universal algorithm that targets bone--the densest material in most anatomic views--to create consistent, diagnostic quality images.

In December 2008, at the 94th annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA), held in Chicago, IL, USA, Konica Minolta (Tokyo, Japan) presented the ImagePilot CR system with AutoPilot Image Processing. AutoPilot image processing technology also remembers the user preferences for various anatomical views and applies these adjustments to refine the image quality of future exposures.

"AutoPilot revolutionizes CR image acquisition by completely automating the process so that virtually anyone can generate consistently superb images with every exposure,” stated Steve Eisner, marketing manager, Konica Minolta. "The value of AutoPilot is apparent in centers that don't have a dedicated radiology staff, such as remote clinics in rural settings, or where technologists are multitasking. These sites still need to generate diagnostic quality X-rays on patients upon demand.”

One such site, Island Community Health Services (ICMC), located on the island community of Vinalhaven, about 24 km off the coast of Maine (USA), has used the ImagePilot CR with AutoPilot image processing technology over the last six months. Since implementation, executive director Dinah Moyer said, "… only one patient was sent to the mainland for additional testing. Prior to this, 35% of our patients were transferred.”

Ms. Moyer noted that ImagePilot technology is easy to use and requires virtually no maintenance. "We just position the patient and click one button to generate high quality, impressive images. As a result, we've increased volume on the CR while simultaneously providing our patients with a higher level of care.”

Konica Minolta Medical Imaging is a leading manufacturer/distributor of digital and traditional imaging products for diagnostic use by hospitals, imaging centers, clinics, and private practice physicians.

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