Women's Imaging News

According to a recent study, the use of accelerated partial breast irradiation using brachytherapy (APBIb) to treat breast cancer has significantly increased in the US in the last few years. This approach is used instead of whole-breast irradiation ... Read more

SonoCiné, Inc., the providers of the new Automated Whole Breast Ultrasound (AWBU) screening systems, has recently introduced two scientific papers. These papers are discussing the role of SonoCiné’s AWBU technology in diagnosing small breast cancers that do not appear on mammography. The papers were introduced during this year’s RSNA meeting. The first paper was titled “Automated Ultrasound with Mammography Improves Cancer Detections compared with Digital Mammography Alone,” It was presented by Judy Dean, MD, from Santa Barbara, CA. Dr. Dean spoke about a multi-center trial that took place in 2010. The study was carried out to compare between mammography alone to mammography combined with SonoCiné AWBU. It was found that using SonoCiné AWBU with mammography resulted in doubling the number of detected cancers. In addition, more small cancers were identified and diagnosed. The second paper was titled “Automated Breast Ultrasound Screening in Women with Digital Mammographically Dense Breasts: First Year’s Experience.” It was presented by Belinda Barclay-White, MD from Scottsdale, AZ. Dr. Barclay-White spoke about another study involving 594 patients. It was found that digital mammography alone resulted in diagnostic yield of 3.4 per 1,000. On the other hand, a yield of 8.4 per 1,000 was achieved after combining SonoCiné AWBU with digital mammography. Dr. Barclay-White commented “SonoCiné AWBU enables me to detect most of the cancers missed by mammography in women with dense breasts. This technology has the potential to dramatically improve breast cancer screening for these ... Read more

In a recent study presented at the 2011 CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, quantitative MRI measures were used along with prognostic tumor markers to determine the prognosis of breast cancer. Sana Parsian, M.D., a research assistant in the department of radiology at the University of Washington in Seattle, said "Breast cancers are heterogeneous, and different subtypes of breast cancer will respond differently to therapy. Every patient with breast cancer must undergo biopsy to be evaluated for the type of breast cancer they have. Based on that, adjuvant medical therapies are prescribed for them." Dr. Parsian and hear research team suggested that some quantitative MRI measures may have as relation with histopathological markers. These measures include diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI (DCE), and their relation with the histopathological markers can aid in reviewing the cellular and vascular nature of a tumor. In regards to DWI, it was noted that fluids diffusion through a field gradient results in decreasing the MRI signal. The cellular nature of a tumor can be determined by reviewing the degree of water mobility. DCE, on the other hand, offers more information on the vascularity of tumors. Malignant tissues need blood supply to continue their growth. The tumor’s vasculairty appears different on DCE than that of normal tissues. During their study, researchers assessed the relation between DWI, DCE and other histopathologic markers of breast cancer. These markers included estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor, HER2, p53 and the ki67 proliferation marker. The study population included 36 patients who had 41 invasive cancers. Researchers noted that there was a definite relation between MRI measures and all markers, with the exception of ER. The latter was reported to have a relation with DCE only. Dr. Parsian said "When we looked at these measures, we realized there was a correlation with biomarkers," Hopes are high that with more studies MRI would help in offering significant noninvasive details about tumors."I think the final goal of radiology is to get more information while doing the least amount of intervention possible for the patient," adding "It would be great if we could improve our understanding of breast cancer biology and predict response to different therapies with imaging. Our study suggests MRI may play a valuable role in this ... Read more

According to a recent study, more women are undergoing more imaging procedures, such as mammography and ultrasound, before surgical removal of breast tumors. The study showed that more imaging procedures are taking place than those carried out 20 years ago. In addition, more types of imaging are now included in single imaging appointments. The study was conducted by a team from Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA.  Breast cancer patients usually undergo several imaging procedures, such as mammography and ultrasound, before removing the tumor. The scans coming from such imaging procedures help doctors in assessing the conditions of their patients. During the study, Richard Bleicher, M.D., surgical oncologist at Fox Chase, and his team noted that the percent of patients going for more than 2 imaging visits nearly quadrupled between 1992 and 2005. Although Dr. Bleicher says that more visits may represent a burden to patients, a lot of them get relieved after evaluation and consultation with their doctors. Dr. Bleicher said "The burden to the patient is increasing substantially. The number of days patients are having mammograms, MRIs, and ultrasounds is going up steadily year by year. They're having imaging done more frequently on separate dates during the preoperative interval than ever before. It's surprising." In addition, the research team noted that more imaging procedures were increasingly added to single imaging visits. In 1992, 4.3 % of breast tumor had more than one type of imaging in a single visit. This percent reached 27.1 % in ... Read more

Excellent quality strain imaging capabilities via two ACUSON S2000s from Siemens The Royal Bolton Hospital, part of Bolton NHS Foundation Trust, is ready for the future of breast elastography following the installation of two ACUSON S2000™ diagnostic ultrasound systems from Siemens Healthcare. The systems are now being used for general breast imaging, asymptomatic screening assessment as well as symptomatic breast clinics. The hospital is planning to use the ACUSON S2000s to further enhance breast lesion diagnosis using Siemens’ second generation implementation of Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) technology in the S2000’s Virtual Touch™ HD application. Virtual Touch Technology provides for great sensitivity and accuracy in breast imaging and will help to provide a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the strain properties or stiffness of deep tissue using shear waves. The two diagnostic ultrasound systems have replaced ageing equipment and were smoothly installed as part of the 15-year multi-vendor Managed Equipment Service (MES) agreement between the Trust and Siemens that began in summer 2010. The MES partnership delivers the latest medical equipment as part of a planned approach to equipment provision, maintenance and user training for the lifetime of the contract. “We are very pleased with the S2000 systems and particularly their ease of use,” said Dr. Anthony Maxwell, Consultant Radiologist and Director of Breast Screening at the Royal Bolton Hospital. “We are impressed with the image quality and are looking forward to exploring the full functionality of Siemens’ strain imaging technology, which we expect will prove very useful in the diagnosis of breast lesions. The systems were delivered as part of the MES agreement with Siemens, which continues to provide us with the latest technology so that patients can receive the best possible diagnosis and treatment.” “The two installations at the Royal Bolton Hospital demonstrate the S2000’s versatility in breast imaging with its capabilities of compression elasticity, Virtual Touch imaging and quantification,” said Bernadette Leonard, Regional Sales and Clinical Applications Manager for Ultrasound at Siemens Healthcare. “The combination of ease of use and excellent image quality will help to boost diagnostic confidence and deliver the best possible results for patient diagnosis.” About Siemens Healthcare The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry and a trendsetter in medical imaging, laboratory diagnostics, medical information technology and hearing aids. Siemens offers its customers products and solutions for the entire range of patient care from a single source – from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, and on to treatment and aftercare. By optimising clinical workflows for the most common diseases, Siemens also makes healthcare faster, better and more cost-effective. Siemens Healthcare employs some 51,000 employees worldwide and operates around the world. In fiscal year 2011 (to September 30), the Sector posted revenue of 12.5 billion euros and profit of around 1.3 billion euros. For further information please visit: www.siemens.com/healthcare. For more information or images please contact: Georgina Wright / Marc Gossage Media Safari T: 01225 471202 E: marcg@mediasafari.co.uk Siemens Healthcare Laura Bennett T: 01276 696374 E: laura.bennett@siemens.com W: ... Read more

According to a new study, routine mammography screening for breast cancer in women can result in more harm than benefits. The study was carried out by a team from the University of Southampton in England. The results are highlighted in the latest ... Read more

Gordon Hospital, Calhoun, Georgia, has recently received a three-year accreditation in breast MRI from the American College of Radiology (ACR). The accreditation recognizes the high quality breast imaging service provided at the hospital. Raina Sanford, director of Gordon Hospital’s radiology department, said “This accreditation is one more level of confidence that we can offer our patients. Already a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence since 2007, this Gold Seal Accreditation assures our patients that they are receiving the best possible care when it comes to their breast health.” MRI scans provide doctors with images showing more details of the breast tissue more than other techniques such as mammography and ultrasound. A lot of suspicious cases are evaluated using MRI scans to confirm the presence or absence of cancerous tissues. The ACR accreditation is awarded after an extensive review of the imaging services offered. Various criteria are evaluated by a Board-certified panel of medical professionals. The assessed criteria include the quality of the imaging modalities, the knowledge of the operating staff, in addition to the application of quality control ... Read more

Four MAMMOMAT Inspirations from Siemens Healthcare installed to improve workflow and patient comfort Derriford Hospital, part of Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust, is celebrating the one year anniversary of its Primrose Breast Care Centre transitioning from analogue to digital. The transformation included the installation of four MAMMOMAT Inspiration™ Full Field Digital mammography systems from Siemens Healthcare. Two of the MAMMOMAT Inspiration systems are based in the breast imaging department and are used for both screening assessments and symptomatic work; one unit is based in Plymouth’s Guildhall; while a fourth is a mobile unit and used at various locations in the local area. Both off-site systems are used for breast screening. The transformation from analogue systems to digital has resulted in workflow efficiencies and an improved patient experience throughout the department and on the mobile system.  As a result of the reduced time required to complete breast screening examinations, appointments for mammograms have been shortened, providing the potential for savings through increased capacity. The hospital selected the MAMMOMAT Inspiration system for its rapid turnaround time between patients as well as its excellent ergonomic design. The system allows images to be instantly acquired, ensuring the best possible image is taken at the time of the mammogram and thereby reducing the need for return visits from patients. The installation of the MAMMOMAT Inspiration systems has allowed the hospital to offer beautiful full-field digital image quality for stereo, complementing their prone table system.  The system features new compression technologies, a paddle design and an isocentric rotation of the X-ray tube to make system handling simpler. This also helps improve workflow and patient comfort. In addition, the MAMMOMAT Inspiration system’s easy and user-friendly operability allows radiographers to position the system correctly with a single click, as opposed to previous systems which required staff to manually move systems into place. “The key benefit for both staff and patients is that images can be seen straight away, helping to streamline workflow and improve patient comfort,” said Diana Nicholson, Superintendent Radiographer, Breast Imaging at Derriford Hospital. “The system is also easy for staff to use, as they no longer have to swap the bucky in-between procedures.  Patients have remarked on the system’s comfort aided by the MAMMOMAT Inspiration’s flexible paddle and ergonomic design.” “We are delighted that Derriford Hospital is celebrating its digital transformation anniversary following the installation of four MAMMOMAT Inspirations into the Primrose Breast Care Centre,” said Vince Golledge, Regional Sales and Corporate Business Manager at Siemens Healthcare.  “The Trust is benefiting from systems that are not only simple to operate, but produce high quality images in a more comfortable environment for the patient.” About Siemens Healthcare The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry and a trendsetter in medical imaging, laboratory diagnostics, medical information technology and hearing aids. Siemens offers its customers products and solutions for the entire range of patient care from a single source – from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, and on to treatment and aftercare. By optimising clinical workflows for the most common diseases, Siemens also makes healthcare faster, better and more cost-effective. Siemens Healthcare employs some 51,000 employees worldwide and operates around the world. In fiscal year 2011 (to September 30), the Sector posted revenue of 12.5 billion euros and profit of around 1.3 billion euros. For further information please visit: www.siemens.com/healthcare. For more information or images please contact: Marc Gossage / Jon Wilcox Media Safari T:   01225 471202 E:  jonw@mediasafari.co.uk Siemens Healthcare Laura Bennett T:   01276 696374 E:  laura.bennett@siemens.com W: ... Read more

GE has provided the FDA with the device description and non-clinical information, including phantom testing, and detector performance evaluation WAUKESHA, WI – NOVEMBER 10, 2011– GE Healthcare, a unit of General Electric Company (NYSE:GE), announced that it recently submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the first module of its premarket approval application (PMA) for GE Breast Tomosynthesis, an option of the Senographe* Essential system. In this first PMA module, GE Healthcare has provided the FDA with the device description and non-clinical information, including phantom testing, and detector performance evaluation. The GE Breast Tomosynthesis option has been designed as an add-on option for the Senographe Essential that will acquire multiple projection views to produce 3D Digital Breast Tomosynthesis (DBT) images intended to be suitable for screening and diagnosis of breast cancer. Over 1,200 Senographe Essentials are in clinical use in the United States today. Earlier this summer, GE Healthcare received agreement from FDA to proceed with a PMA modular submission consistent with the application shell proposed by GE. The modular review approach is a mechanism that allows applicants to submit preclinical data and manufacturing information for FDA review while the applicant continues to collect, compile, and analyze clinical data for the submission. In short, a modular PMA is a compilation of sections or "modules" submitted at different times that together become a complete premarket approval application. The modular approach increases the likelihood that an applicant will be able to resolve deficiencies identified by FDA earlier in the review process than would occur with a traditional PMA application. GE Healthcare intends to file the remaining three modules of its DBT PMA with the FDA over the coming year. “Worldwide, more than 1.2 million people annually are diagnosed with breast cancer. Since 1965, GE Healthcare has made significant progress in providing solutions for breast cancer detection and diagnosis that really bring a change to people’s lives. Today through ‘healthymagination’, we continuously develop innovations to reduce costs, increase access and improve quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery around the globe,” said Anne LeGrand, GE Healthcare’s vice president and general manager of the company’s global X-ray business. *Trademarks of the General Electric Company. About GE Healthcare GE Healthcare provides transformational medical technologies and services that are shaping a new age of patient care. Our broad expertise in medical imaging and information technologies, medical diagnostics, patient monitoring systems, drug discovery, biopharmaceutical manufacturing technologies, performance improvement and performance solutions services help our customers to deliver better care to more people around the world at a lower cost. In addition, we partner with healthcare leaders, striving to leverage the global policy change necessary to implement a successful shift to sustainable healthcare systems. Our “healthymagination” vision for the future invites the world to join us on our journey as we continuously develop innovations focused on reducing costs, increasing access and improving quality around the world. Headquartered in the United Kingdom, GE Healthcare is a unit of General Electric Company (NYSE:GE). Worldwide, GE Healthcare employees are committed to serving healthcare professionals and their patients in more than 100 countries. For more information about GE Healthcare, visit our website at ... Read more

Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust has recently improved its breast cancer detection capabilities with four new digital mammography units. The total cost of the new units is £270,000 a section of the cost will be covered by a £96,000 through a fundraising campaign. The new digital mammography units will significantly improve the rates of breast cancer detection. Dr Jane Baldwin, a radiologist from Churchill Hospital, said “These new machines are a fantastic improvement for patients and will make coming to have a mammogram quicker. The digital system means results are clearer to interpret so women are less likely to be called back for repeat tests and we can identify possible cancers sooner.” Dr. Baldwin is also serving as the breast imaging clinical lead for the Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust. He said that the older mammography systems were film-based, and around 2-3 days were needed to process a mammography film. Thanks to the new digital mammography units, breast images can be reviewed on screens within minutes. Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals NHS Trust installed the new digital mammography systems as a part of the national NHS Breast Screening Program. The objective of this program is to offer mammography screening for breast cancer for women at the age of 50 every 3 years. The age is expected to be 47 years by 2016. “The national breast cancer screening program is important in helping find cancers early, and we encourage women to take part when invited.” said Dr. ... Read more

According to a new study, more than 50% of women undergoing annual mammography screening in the US receive false positive results. Women receive at least 1 false positive result at least during a10-years duration. In addition, 7-9% of women go for a ... Read more

The market for breast imaging devices is expected to recover and continue growing at compound annual growth rate of 10 percent, reaching over $1 billion by 2017, a market analysis shows. The report prepared by iData Research observes that a strong trend for faster, higher quality imaging has resulted in an almost entire replacement of older analog mammography with more advanced systems.  In addition, emergence of breast-specific gamma imaging (BSGI) as a supplement to mammography and ultrasound is the fastest growing segment of the breast imaging market. Together they form the basis of a projected double-digit growth of the market. “BSGI has a high level of sensitivity similar to that of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), but costs less and provides more comfort for patients,” wrote Dr. Kamran Zamanian, an analyst for iData Research. “BSGI is suitable for imaging women with breast implants, dense breasts, those at high risk. It can also help evaluate suspicious areas identified on a mammogram.” Zamanian predicts the adoption of BSGI will increase as the technology becomes an accepted substitute for MRIs and as the installed base increases. In the short-term the addition of Gamma Medica, Inc. as new competitor in BSGI segment has increased the average selling price of the devices by nearly 30 percent, but that is expected to decline slightly through 2017 as Gamma’s LumaGEMTM MBI System faces more competition with the less expensive Dilon 6800® Gamma Camera from Dilon Technologies. Not surprisingly, the market research study expects the market for analog mammography devices to fall rapidly with steady declines through 2017, as most of this older technology will be replaced with digital systems. Nevertheless a small market for analog mammography devices will remain with demand from clinics with low budgets, or low volumes. With lower demand, the average sales price for these analog machines will also likely decline. A third segment of the market growth will be supplied by positron emission mammography, which is a new, specialized modality for breast cancer detection. In 2010, the market for this modality increased by more than 40 percent, and was unaffected by the global recession of 2008 and 2009. The technology offers an alternative for patients who cannot undergo MRI due to implanted metal devices, such as pacemakers, or those who for one reason or another cannot undergo MRIs. The major players in the breast imaging market will remain with Hologic leading GE Healthcare and Fujifilm with a strong position in both digital and analog radiography devices, along with a strong reputation for their ablation devices. GE’s strengths stem from its 50-year history of making mammography systems, with a steady rate of innovation aimed at producing accurate, efficient and patient-friendly breast imaging products. GE bolsters its position by also producing breast MRI coils. Fujifilm has carved out a strong position as the only manufacturer to produce CR mammography systems. The 12-page executive summary and the 411-page full report entitled, “U.S. Market for Women's Health Devices 2011” thoroughly analyzes 70 segments of women’s health markets and provides an in-depth look at the trends and challenges for each of them. The report is one of in a series of comprehensive global market intelligence reports for Europe, Asia, and South America. iData Research is an international market research and consulting firm focused on providing market intelligence for the medical device, dental and pharmaceutical industries. For more information visit their website (www.idataresearch.net). By Michael O’Leary, contributing writer, Health Imaging ... Read more