2007 Year-End Article Index

It seems impossible, but another year has come and gone. 2007 was a groundbreaking year for the field of radiology. Innovative procedures, advanced techniques, cutting-edge research findings and top-notch medical conferences highlighted the accomplishments of radiologists, researchers, educators and technologists around the world.

As always, rt image was there every step of the way, providing readers a firsthand look at all the news shaping their rapidly changing field. But, if you missed a step along the way, our annual Year-End Article Index will bring you up to speed.

Arranged by category, each listing gives the article title, author and a brief description, along with the original issue date for easy reference. Also, visit www.rt-image.com and click on “Past Issues” to access these stories in their entirety.


Administration

Speaking up Is Hard to Do
Amy Storer
Colleagues who rely on intimidation aren’t hard to find. And if you find them in your workplace, studies say these bullies are making many professionals afraid to speak up and communicate ideas at work. Experts address this “fear of speaking up” issue, how it’s affecting your bottom line and how you can turn it into an improvement opportunity.
01-15-07

Transforming Healthcare
As the founder of both the Gingrich Group and the Center for Health Transformation, former U.S. Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich is a man on a mission. His agenda? Transforming 21st century health policy and endorsing proactive and preventative healthcare. In this transcribed speech, Gingrich shares his ideas for improving healthcare in the United States and presents the case for a paperless, intelligent health system.
02-12-07

Growing Tired
Amy Storer
A new study finds that fatigue in the U.S. workplace is common and costs $136 billion per year in health-related lost productivity. Experts explain how fatigue is ravaging the radiology profession, in particular, and how employers can extinguish tiring tendencies before they find themselves engulfed in a burnt-out staff.
02-19-07

The Customer Is Always Right
Jorge A. Casanas, MEd, RT(R)(CV)(QM)(ARRT), and Helena M. Coello, MEd, RT(R)(ARRT)
In this article that won first place in the Professional category of the 2006 rt image Writer’s Competition, the authors describe the importance of customer service in the radiology department and what facilities can do to make it part of their everyday outlook.
02-26-07

A Conversation with . . . Dick Clarke
Jane Kollmer
President and CEO of the Healthcare Financial Management Association, Dick Clarke, discusses ways hospitals and physicians can find financial solutions in powerful joint ventures.
04-02-07

A Novel Approach
Jon Mertz, MBA
In this article, which won second place in the Professional category of the 2006 rt image Writing Competition, author Jon Mertz discusses how radiology professionals can improve their imaging practices drastically by thinking outside of the box.
05-07-07

Marketing Matters
Peggy Wagner, CRA
How can you identify the key components of marketing and examine how all employees are integral to the marketing team? Read on and also learn how to build a marketing program, not only to increase financial performance, but also to build strong relationships both internally and externally.
06-11-07

A Conversation with . . . Jonathan M. Tanz
Tom Schaffner
What are the main reasons companies conduct employee career path planning sessions? Jonathan M. Tanz, vice president of research and consulting operations at Best Practices, answers that question, as well as other practices that companies should follow to ensure they retain the best employees.
08-20-07

A Conversation with . . . Scott Law
Tom Schaffner
Scott Law, CEO of Zotec Partners, tackles the medical billing questions we all have, including physician focus, high-deductible plans and revenue cycle management.
08-27-07

Planning for the Future
Jane Kollmer
You have so many big ideas for your facility. You realize your department desperately needs new equipment, updated technology, more space and a larger staff. But, it’s impossible to expect such changes to materialize overnight. However, the very success of a hospital or facility greatly depends on smart and comprehensive planning that is custom-tailored to a common vision shared by all those involved.
11-05-07


Association Coverage

NCBC Conference Preview
Jennifer Pilling, MA
The National Consortium for Breast Centers’ 17th Annual National Interdisciplinary Breast Conference taking place from February 24-27 in Las Vegas provides attendees with plenty of educational offerings, as well as an opportunity to catch up on the latest in breast care.
02-05-07

HIMSS Conference Preview
Jennifer Pilling, MA
The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society’s annual meeting, taking place from February 25 through March 1 in New Orleans, allows attendees to find out about the latest developments in electronic health records, discover how the latest technology transforms patient care, and acquire firsthand knowledge of the operating room of the future.
02-12-07

The New Wave
Jennifer Pilling, MA
Although Seattle is not usually considered a place to catch waves, the Society of Interventional Radiology will encourage attendees to surf the waves of the future, as this year’s national convention explores interventional radiology’s constant growth and innovation.
02-19-07

Stand out in the Crowd
Jennifer Pilling, MA
Held at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in New York City from March 15-18, this year’s American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine annual conference will offer educational, scientific, literary and professional activities, as well as plenty of opportunities to enjoy the Big Apple.
03-05-07

Images of . . . HIMSS 2007
What better place to discuss the importance of emergency health records than New Orleans? Check out these pics from the conference.
03-12-07

ACC Conference Preview
Jennifer Pilling, MA
Reach the summit with this year’s annual American College of Cardiology (ACC) Scientific Session held March 24-27 in New Orleans. Just like the revitalized city that will host it, the ACC conference will revitalize and re-energize cardiovascular professionals to continue to provide appropriate, innovative and exceptional care to their patients.
03-19-07

Images of . . . AIUM 2007
Check out the pics from the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine’s annual meeting.
03-26-07

Data Sheet . . . Professional Associations
Thinking about joining a professional association? With so many to choose from, how do you know the best fit for you? Let our comparison chart of radiology organizations guide your decision. Also, go online at www.rt-image.com/datasheet to check out this and our other product/services comparison charts.
04-09-07

Images of . . . RT in DC 2007
RTs, radiation therapists and students from around the nation congregated in Washington, D.C., from March 18-20 to attend the ninth annual American Society of Radiologic Technologists-sponsored RT in DC advocacy event. Check out these photos from the event.
04-16-07

ACR Conference Preview
Jennifer Pilling, MA
This year’s American College of Radiology Annual Meeting and Chapter Leadership Conference will invite radiology professionals to Washington, D.C., to partake in a similar forum to discuss policies, ideas and practices specific to the field of radiology.
04-30-07

New Name, New Focus
Jennifer Pilling, MA
A name change for the society, a pre-course for CIIP’s in the making, and an opening keynote on biomedical informatics are only the beginning. Learn what’s in store for attendees headed for the Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine’s annual meeting, held June 7-11 in Providence, R.I.
05-07-07

A Capital Affair
Jennifer Pilling, MA
Now in its 54th year, the annual Society for Nuclear Medicine meeting promises to offer a combination of up-to-date information, paired with plenty of engaging social events, to give attendees a full spectrum of involvement. Hosted in Washington, D.C., from June 2-6, this event should not be missed by anyone in the field of nuclear medicine.
05-14-07

ASRT Conference Preview
Keri Forsythe
Attention RTs: The American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) is heading west. Together with the Association of Educators in Imaging and Radiologic Science, the ASRT is hosting its annual conference from June 1-4 in Albuquerque, N.M. Earn CE credits, network with some of the brightest minds in radiologic technology and make lifelong memories.
05-21-07

AHRA Conference Preview
Tom Schaffner
Disney World has been called the “happiest place on Earth,” so what better town to host the 35th annual meeting of the American Healthcare Radiology Administrators than Orlando?
06-04-07

Down Home Dosimetry
Jane Kollmer
Learn what the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists has in store for its 32nd annual meeting in New Orleans.
06-04-07

Images of . . . Leading Edge in Diagnostic Ultrasound 2007
rt image attended the Leading Edge in Diagnostic Ultrasound annual conference on May 1-4 in Atlantic City, N.J. Check out photos from the exciting event and view Webcasts from the conference.
06-18-07

Images of . . . SIIM 2007
If you couldn’t make it to Providence this year for the Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine’s annual meeting, these photos and exclusive Webcasts from the event will catch you up to speed.
06-25-07

Images of . . . AAMD 2007
Check out photos from the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists’ annual meeting in New Orleans.
07-02-07

Images of . . . SNM 2007
If you couldn’t make it to Washington, D.C., this year for the Society of Nuclear Medicine’s annual meeting, these photos and Webcast from the conference will catch you up to speed.
07-09-07

Images of . . . ASRT/AEIRS 2007
If you couldn’t make it to Albuquerque last month for the American Society of Radiologic Technologists’ annual meeting, these photos from the event should bring you up to speed.
07-16-07

Images of . . . AHRA 2007
Best known for being a family vacation hot spot, Orlando played host to the American Healthcare Radiology Administrators’ family. Check out these photos and Webcasts from the conference.
07-23-07

A Conversation with . . . AIUM
Jane Kollmer
rt image talks to Joshua Copel, Lennard Greenbaum and Carmine Valente of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine about the importance of uniting members of the ultrasound community for a practice forum.
08-20-07

A Joint Affair
Keri Forsythe
From September 8-11, Providence, R.I., will play host to the greatest minds in molecular imaging at the Academy of Molecular Imaging and the Society for Molecular Imaging’s 2007 Joint Molecular Imaging Conference. From networking opportunities to technological innovation, you won’t want to miss out. 
08-27-07

Sonography off the Strip
Jane Kollmer
The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography takes on Las Vegas this year for its annual conference. With all of the educational sessions, technology showcases and guest speakers, this meeting promises to be as exhilarating as the city that hosts it.
09-24-07

On the Way to L.A.
It’s off to Los Angeles for the 49th annual meeting of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology. This year’s theme: “Treating Cancer While Preserving Quality of Life.”
10-08-07

Images of . . . AMI/SMI Joint Molecular Imaging Conference 2007
If you couldn’t make it to Providence, R.I., for the AMI/SMI Joint Molecular Imaging Conference 2007, these photos from the event will bring you up to speed.
10-08-07

RSNA 2007
Bob Stott
While hosting an array of different radiology disciplines and specialties, this year’s Radiological Society of North America conference guidelines remain consistent in the drive to improve healthcare quality through professional communication and cooperation. See what these changes in the industry may mean for you.
11-12-07

Images of . . . ASTRO 2007
As Los Angeles recovers from the annual meeting for the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, check out these pics from the event.
11-26-07

Images of . . . RSNA
The Radiological Society of North America’s (RSNA) annual meeting in Chicago, Nov. 25-30, gave rt image the opportunity to catch up with the latest news and events in radiology. Check out these photos and Webcasts from RSNA 2007 and see for yourself.
12-10-07

Computer-Aided Detection
A Conversation with . . . Marc Filerman
Marc Filerman, vice president of global marketing for iCAD, discusses his company’s target markets, customer benefits and digital mammography’s impact on CAD.
04-02-07

Battling Cost and Time
David W. Fontaine, MD
When Catholic Medical Center in New Hampshire decided to purchase a new CAD system to help with their imaging needs, they turned to iCAD to get the best fit for their facility.
07-23-07


Computed Radiography

A Conversation with . . . Alan Davalou
Alan Davalou, chief marketing officer at Radlink, Redondo Beach, Calif., discusses the benefits of CR systems, his company’s CR product line, as well as their new PACS offering.
08-06-07

Data Sheet . . . CR
Searching for a CR system for your facility? Then look no further. rt image compares some of the biggest vendors in the industry so you can decide the best fit for you.
08-06-07


Computed Tomography

Case Study: A New Slice of Trauma
James W. Langston, MD
In 2005, the Elvis Presley Memorial Trauma Center decided to upgrade its existing single-slice CT systems to improve diagnostic capabilities and purchased two Aquilion 32-slice CT systems from Toshiba America Medical Systems.
 01-22-07

CT for Lung Cancer Screening
Leah R. Troiano
The results of the International Early Lung Cancer Action Program (I-ELCAP) – the largest long-term study ever conducted to explore the early detection of lung cancer – have rocked the industry. Never have clinicians been offered so much hope in treating one of the most deadly cancers known and the leading cause of cancer death among both genders. But some say this study may not be accurate.
03-19-07

Getting Inside Baseball
Matthew N. Skoufalos
Researcher and entrepreneur David Zavagno investigates the Major League Baseball home run controversy by imaging the insides of game-used baseballs to see if steroids could have played a part in some of the game’s stars’ high batting statistics.
03-19-07

To the Rescue
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
Every year, approximately 6 million people in the U.S. visit the emergency room with chest pain. Although at least half of these patients have inconclusive early-test results, about 65 percent of this population is not found to have suffered a heart attack. Learn how physicians are utilizing mutlislice CT to diagnose chest pain earlier, and prevent patients from undergoing unnecessary procedures.
05-28-07

2-5-6
Amy Storer
In a single rotation, Toshiba America Medical Systems’ 256-slice CT is designed to acquire a large volume of data that can cover the brain or heart. Find out how one medical center is gaining a “tremendous advantage” with this system’s volume acquisition and providing more accurate images and lower doses, resulting in more accurate, quicker diagnoses.
07-09-07

Data Sheet . . . CT
Searching for a new CT system for your facility? Then look no further. rt image has gathered the stats on vendors’ CT systems for you to check out. Also, visit www.rt-image.com to compare these and our other product charts.
11-19-07


Digital Radiography

Data Sheet . . . DR
Searching for a DR system for your facility? Then look no further. rt image compares some of the biggest vendors in the industry so you can decide the best fit for you.
08-06-07


Display Systems

Data Sheet . . . Display Systems
Searching for new display systems for your facility? Then look no further. rt image has assembled the stats on vendors’ display systems’ offerings for you to check out. Compare these and our other product charts.
05-21-07


Dosimetry

Full Speed Ahead
Susan Cagle, BS, CMD, RT(R)(T)
Learn why the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists is hoping the shortage of medical dosimetrists is decreasing as this increasingly popular profession is growing.
02-19-07

A Conversation with . . . Alex Plowman, BS, CMD, RT(T)
Alex Plowman, BS, CMD, RT(T), vice president of Online Dosimetry Inc., tells rt image readers what makes his company different from the rest and its vast array of intensity-modulated radiation therapy solutions.
06-11-07


Education

So, You Want to Be a CIIP?
Matthew N. Skoufalos
rt image delves into the Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine’s certified imaging informatics professional (CIIP) course to address the knowledge gap experienced by many PACS administrators by introducing and exploring the blend of competencies required for imaging informatics administration. Read on and see if you have the qualities needed to become a CIIP.
05-07-07

A Conversation with . . . Chuck Socia, RT(R)(CT)(QM), CIIP
Tom Schaffner
Chuck Socia talks about the new certified imaging informatics professional (IIP) exam, the governing body of the American Board of Imaging Informatics and what we can expect from the IIP exam.
09-03-07

RT Education
Kimberly Likens Perry, EdD, RT(R)
With the 2009 deadline for radiology program educators to obtain their master’s quickly approaching, educator and researcher Kimberly Likens Perry reveals data from her study that shows many teachers may take an early exit from the education field.
09-17-07

Certifiably PACS
Kelsey Archer, BS
Omaha, Neb.-based Clarkson College’s launch of a two-level certificate specialization in PACS was done to fill the expanding need for PACS-trained professionals in the marketplace. With a full curriculum offered both on-campus and online using state-of-the-art distance learning tools and top-notch teaching staff, Clarkson is ensuring that its students are well-prepared to be active participants and leaders in the world of the 21st Century.
09-24-07

The Radiology Classroom of the Future
Lawrence P. Davis, MD, FACR
In January 2008, the American College of Radiology will launch a new education center that will serve as a mini-university, offering next-generation educational resources and teaching methods unavailable elsewhere.
10-08-07


Emergency Radiology

Disaster Recovery
Gary Reed
When it comes to disaster recovery, the key is being prepared. Learn how you can arm your facility to handle almost any situation that comes your way.
01-15-07


Facility Profiles

Snapshot: Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Check out this mini-photo album of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and their recognized excellence in patient care.
01-08-07

Deck the Halls
Suffering from post-holiday depression? Have no fear, rt image will keep the holiday spirit alive. We asked you to send in pictures of your decked-out radiology departments and imaging centers. See how our readers go the extra mile to spread holiday cheer.
01-15-07

Education at Work
Marlene Johnson, MEd, RT(R)
Building and retaining a successful team of highly competent technologists is a continuously difficult task. There are many obstacles to recruiting the right people into your system and more challenges when faced with how to keep them. Read how the University of Utah Health Care’s department of radiology used education as a recruitment and retention tool in its imaging departments and developed technology programs to provide a consistent supply of qualified technologists. 
01-22-07

Snapshot: Paoli Hospital
Amy Storer
The Neurodiagnostic/Vascular Center at Paoli Hospital in Pennsylvania performs a wide variety of non-invasive, diagnostic tests of the brain, nervous system and circulatory system. Check out this mini-photo album of their facility.
01-22-07

Snapshot: Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center
Check out this mini-photo album from Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, which operates as a Level 1 trauma center and serves as a beacon of excellence in its community.
02-12-07

No Satisfaction
Amy Storer
University of Kentucky’s director of diagnostic radiology, Sheryl Abercrombie, is never satisfied. She explains how that helps her in many ways when managing her radiology department – from staying on the cutting-edge of technological advances to weathering a brutal storm of staffing shortages.
02-26-07

Beating Consumerism to the Punch
Janine Kusza
Fortune magazine recently ranked Griffin Hospital 21st on its annual “100 Best Companies to Work For” list – the eighth year in a row that the facility has been given the honor. Find out why more than 600 other facilities across the nation have visited Griffin with the goal of unlocking the mystery of their phenomenal success in patient relations and their unrivaled passion for promoting the “Griffin family.”
03-26-07

A Two-Way Street
Janine Kusza
The University of California – Los Angeles’s (UCLA) radiology department is comprised of individuals with strong backgrounds in research that has allowed them to rapidly implement new, and sometimes revolutionary, imaging and therapeutic innovations. Through a unique partnership with Siemens Medical Solutions, UCLA’s cardiovascular imaging program has become one of the country’s most cutting-edge imaging facilities – one of many programs that have put UCLA on the map.
04-23-07

Snapshot: Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) provides its patients with advanced cancer care, groundbreaking research and top-notch educational programs. Submitted by MSKCC is this mini-photo album.
04-30-07

Saving Children
Jane Kollmer
St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is, by no means, an ordinary children’s hospital. At St. Jude, the patients come for top treatment at a world-class research facility. And St. Jude will accept any patient, regardless of their ability to pay. rt image recently discussed some of the driving forces that make St. Jude stand out among children’s hospitals with representatives from the St. Jude radiology, radiation therapy and oncology departments
05-28-07

Snapshot: Huggins Hospital
Devon W. Bloom, RT(R)
One look at these pics and you’ll see why the radiology staff of Huggins Hospital is so proud to show it off.
06-18-07

A Prime Location
Amy Storer
For Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, the old adage “location, location, location” certainly rings true. See how this facility is leveraging its proximity to Stanford University’s research and education resources, and access to state-of-the-art technology to be a premiere pediatric teaching hospital internationally recognized for its education, research and patient care.
06-25-07

Technology Central
Jane Kollmer
For the millions of Americans who live in and around the New York metropolitan area, there are an abundant number of healthcare facilities, each with its own network of hospitals and imaging centers. In this hospital profile, find out what drives New York University Medical Center to constantly improve its radiology department.
07-23-07

Purging Prostate Cancer
Virginia ‘Ginya’ Carnahan, APR, CPRC
Michael Dattoli and Richard Sorace have shared a challenge for more than two decades. The radiation oncologists have sought a better way to treat prostate cancer; it is a definitive treatment that will defeat the cancer while not destroying the man’s quality of life after treatment. Find out how the staff members at Dattoli Cancer Center & Brachytherapy Research Institute are doing just that.
08-27-07

A Floating Miracle
Mike Osborne
Still scarred from years of devastating civil war, the West African nation of Liberia contains a majority of people who can’t afford desperately needed healthcare. But, recently, there was hope on the horizon for these poor patients. Read how the Mercy Ships floating hospital Anastasis staffed with unpaid volunteers, brought free healthcare services – and hope – to Liberia’s underprivileged.
10-22-07

Creating the Fairy Tale
Lynn McVey, BS, RT
Consolidating a department or even a facility is a very stressful time for all involved. But what happens when three hospitals in one city are consolidated into one? This first-hand account from Lynn McVey, director of the department of radiology at St. Mary’s Hospital, dishes out some strong advice on how to get through it and come out with a top-notch staff.
11-26-07


Imaging Agents

Deadly Reactions
John Femia, BS, RT(R)(CT)
Learn how radiology departments can recognize the symptoms of and treat patients who experience allergic reactions from intravenous contrast material.
03-12-07

Mystery Solved
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
A mysterious fibrosing disorder, nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF) can be detrimental to a variety of bodily organs. But, when kidney disease patients began developing NSF after exposure to a certain MR contrast agent, physicians knew that they had to solve the mystery – before it was too late.
04-23-07


IT

Breaking the Medical Image Communication Barrier
Using a new grid computing system, radiologists, physicians and pediatric oncologists at 40 hospitals throughout North America are now quickly and securely exchanging high-resolution medical images.
01-15-07

Case Study: Reviving H.O.P.E.
When H.O.P.E. Imaging in Loma Linda, Calif., needed to purchase advanced image management solutions, it turned to Guardian Technologies and Matrox Graphics.
04-30-07

Case Study: Showing Leadership in the Industry
When CodeRyte implemented its software for Radiological Associates of Sacramento (RAS) Medical Group, the practice had 6.5 budgeted coding full-time equivalents on the books. Two of those positions were vacant at that time, creating a challenge to keep up with demand. Learn how improved efficiency allowed RAS to leave those positions permanently unfilled.
11-26-07


Magnetic Resonance

The Heart of a Champion
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
There’s something about the death of a high school or college-age athlete from cardiac problems that shakes humans to the core. And, sadly, for most young athletes who are struck down by a cardiac condition, the problem has existed since birth – a ticking time bomb waiting to go off. Learn how physicians are utilizing MRI and other imaging techniques to screen these champions for cardiac abnormalities – before it’s too late.
01-29-07

Aging Gracefully
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
Total joint replacement is becoming increasingly common, as the country expands with a population living longer and remaining more active than ever before. Unfortunately, some of these joint replacement recipients will develop particle disease, a condition that causes the bone to deteriorate and the prosthetic joint to loosen. Read how physicians are using MRI to detect problems earlier and help keep joint replacement recipients on their feet.
01-29-07

Interdisciplinary Imaging
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
Sciatic notch tumors present a plethora of challenges to medical professionals. Not only can interference with the sciatic nerve produce debilitating pain for the patient, but the tumor can also wrap around the nerve itself. This makes it difficult – or impossible – to remove the tumor for fear of damaging the nerve. Learn how surgeons are utilizing 3-Tesla MRI to detect these tumors and are preventing certain patients from undergoing unnecessary – and potentially harmful – surgery.
04-02-07

Just Breathe
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
Two of the human body’s most vital organs, the lungs must function properly to sustain life. Read how researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine in Philadelphia are utilizing MRI to visualize the inner workings of these organs and learn about lung diseases, without exposing patients to radiation.
07-02-07

Data Sheet . . . MRI
rt image has compiled information from industry vendors to bring you the latest offerings in MR technology.
07-02-07

The Latest in MR
Read about the biggest news to affect MRI: MR elastography, breast MR and nuclear MR.
07-02-07

MR Spectroscopy
Barry Southers, RT(R)
As technology advances, the capabilities of MR spectroscopy will continue to be tapped, not only in clinical imaging, but also in the research world, as well.
07-02-07

MRI’s New Role
Janine Kusza
Cardiovascular disease is a new frontier for MR, as advancing technology enables it to image the heart clearly and efficiently. To determine its efficiency, a recent study compared the diagnostic accuracy achieved using cardiovascular MR techniques with the diagnostic accuracy attained through echocardiography. Learn how experts are using this groundbreaking information to detect thrombi in patients with suspected cardioembolic stroke.
07-16-07

Getting an Earful
Deb Hall, PhD
The intense level of acoustic noise produced by a MR scanner can be damaging to hearing unless proper precautions are followed. But, a group of researchers and engineers from the Institute of Hearing Research in Nottingham, U.K., have developed an active method of noise control known as active noise cancellation, which involves some serious technology.
08-13-07

Attracted to Danger
Jackie Turk
The process to ensure safety in the MRI environment is multifaceted and is the responsibility of the MRI technologist and other staff members. Learn ways you can be sure that safety in your MRI suite is No. 1 priority.
12-10-07


Mammography

Examine | Mammography: Full-Field Digital Mammography
Jay R. Parikh, MD, FRCPc
Jay R. Parikh, MD, FRCPc, the president of the National Consortium of Breast Centers, discusses the struggle breast centers face during the transition to full-field digital mammography.
01-22-07

Data Sheet . . . Mammography
Searching for a new analog or digital mammography system for your facility? Then look no further. rt image has assembled the stats on vendor’s mammography offerings for you to check out. Read on to compare these and all of our other product charts.
02-05-07

Screening Mammography
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
Blake Cady, MD, FACS, MSHA, discusses the parallels of the state of Rhode Island’s 40 percent reduction in breast cancer mortality with its highest ranked mammography screening rate.
02-05-07

Examine | Mammography: Attaining Excellence
Gayle S. Jago, ARRT(R)(M)
Gayle S. Jago, ARRT(R)(M), discusses the role mammographers play in patient care and how they are instrumental in achieving a higher standard of care for the breast imaging profession.
02-26-07

Examine | Mammography: A True Transition
Tammy Coryell, RT(R)(M)
The potential problems mammographers may face when their facilities transition to digital and keeping up with the technology are discussed.
03-26-07

Examine | Mammography: Fact or Fiction?
Olive Peart, MS, RT(R)(M)
Olive Peart, MS, RT(R)(M), attempts to dispel popular myths surrounding breast cancer risks, causes and effective means of detection.
04-23-07

Examine | Mammography: MR Mammography
Reuben Mezrich, MD, PhD
In this month’s installment of Examine: Mammography, Reuben Mezrich, MD, PhD, professor and chairman of the radiology department at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore, explores the pros and cons associated with the utilization of MR mammography.  From benefits, such as MR’s increased sensitivity, to drawbacks, such as MR’s high cost, this article is a must read for radiology professionals.
05-28-07

Examine | Mammography: New ACS Guidelines
Lori D. Kunzelman, MD
In this month’s installment of Examine: Mammography, Lori D. Kunzelman, MD, a breast-imaging radiologist at Scottsdale Medical Imaging in Arizona, relays the recent American Cancer Society guidelines for breast MRI and discusses their implications for breast-imaging professionals.
06-25-07

Examine | Mammography: The Case for CAD
Judy C. Dean, MD
In this month’s installment of Examine: Mammography, private-practice radiologist Judy C. Dean, MD, explores the trend of using computer-aided detection (CAD) for mammography, and refutes the technology’s detractors, maintaining that CAD is ultimately providing better outcomes for patients.
07-23-07

Examine | Mammography: Beyond Screening
Paul D. Friedman, DO
In this month’s installment of Examine: Mammography, Paul D. Friedman, the medical director of the Carol W. and Julius A. Rippel Breast Center at the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center at Morristown Memorial Hospital, discusses why digital mammography is becoming the gold standard in breast imaging.
08-27-07

Examine | Mammography: A Destructive Decline
Cheryl Perkins, MD, RPh
In this month’s installment of Examine: Mammography, senior clinical advisor for Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Cheryl Perkins, discusses the decline in mammography rates and how this drop could be potentially fatal for women across the nation.
09-24-07

A Conversation with . . . Joanne Scott-Santos, RT
Joanne Scott-Santos, RT, of Fujifilm Medical Systems USA, discusses the differences between DR and CR full-field digital mammography and their impact on the patient and end user.
10-15-07

Examine | Mammography: Augmenting the Risks
Gail Lebovic, MD
Breast specialist Gail Lebovic discusses the risk posed by breast augmentation, how it affects the ability to detect breast cancer, and specific guidelines to assist women in maintaining optimal breast healthcare if they have or are considering augmentation.
10-22-07

Examine | Mammography: Mammography in a Digital Light
Stephen Archer
A majority of U.S. mammography screening sites are considering implementing digital mammography within the next three years. About one-fourth of all sites already have at least one digital imaging system. With this dramatic change on the horizon, it’s important for mammography technologists to understand both the challenges and the benefits digital systems can offer.
11-26-07


Molecular Imaging

Molecular Breast Imaging
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
A diagnostic device that resembles a mammography unit can detect breast tumors as tiny as one-fifth of an inch in diameter. See what this could mean for breast imaging.
03-26-07

Data sheet . . . SPECT/CT Systems
Searching for a new SPECT/CT system for your facility? Then look no further. rt image has assembled the stats on vendor’s product offerings for you to check out. Also, go online at www.rt-image.com/datasheet to check out this and our other product/services comparison charts.
05-14-07

A Conversation with . . . Shahram Hejazi, PhD
Shahram Hejazi, president of Carestream Molecular Imaging, a division of Carestream Health Inc., answers questions about molecular imaging and Carestream’s role in the future of the modality.
11-19-07


Nuclear Medicine

Had Enough?
Arin Greenwood
Because obesity is an epidemic in the United States, researchers are using PET imaging to understand how the brain-stomach connection works.
03-26-07

Inside the Brain
Christopher J. Bachler
Banner Alzheimer’s Institute (BAI), which opened its doors in October 2006 to begin research through brain imaging and clinical trials, is as cutting-edge as it gets for studying Alzheimer’s disease. And because 2007 is slated to be a record year nationally for clinical trials around Alzheimer’s Disease, rt image catches up with BAI’s leading researchers to learn about the latest breakthroughs being made with advanced imaging techniques, such as PET scans.
05-14-07

Data Sheet . . . PET/CT Systems
Searching for a new PET/CT system for your facility? Then look no further. rt image has assembled the stats on vendor’s product offerings for you to check out. Also, go online at www.rt-image.com/datasheet to check out this and our other product/services comparison charts.
05-14-07

A Conversation with . . . Paul J. Mirabella
Tom Schaffner
Paul J. Mirabella, talks about his decision to come out of retirement to take the helm as CEO of Naviscan PET Systems, the benefits of PEM Flex technology and his work with the Radiological Society of North America’s Research and Education Committee.
09-10-07


PACS

Examine | PACS: Remote Possibilities
Megan Lawler
Teleradiology vendor NearMed combines top-rated, U.S.-trained radiologists along with No.1-rated PACS as they partner with Philips Medical Systems to utilize Philips iSite PACS solution, which is available in a pay-per-use cost model.
01-01-07

Examine | PACS: Conversation with . . . Rex Jakobovits
Rex Jakobovits, president of Vivalog Technologies and creator of MyPACS, explains how a new tool for building teaching files on a Web browser is helping radiologists everywhere share their files and promote better patient care.
02-05-07

Examine | PACS: Widening the Advantage
Bernhard Meyer
With a 3-D-enabled thin-client PACS, physicians are now able to review primary tomographic data throughout the hospital with all the advantages of MPR and 3-D navigation.
03-05-07

Getting Down to Business
Jennifer Pilling, MA
Learn the dos and don’ts of implementing and integrating various clinical information systems into a digital healthcare enterprise for institutions with minimal information technology and medical informatics support at this year’s PACS 2007 conference in San Antonio.
03-12-07

Examine | PACS: Reading Digital Mammograms on PACS
Michael Trambert, MD
Digital mammography is here to stay, but the manner in which it will be most commonly deployed has not yet been established. The author suggests that integrating full-field digital mammography with PACS as an alternate to the standalone digital workstation route.
04-03-07

Data Sheet . . . PACS
Searching for a new PACS for your facility? Then look no further. rt image has assembled the stats on vendors’ PACS offerings for you to check out. Compare these and our other product charts.
05-07-07

Examine | PACS: Finding the Right PACS for Your Needs
Russell Cain, MS, CRA
Read how administrators at Haywood Regional Medical Center in North Carolina made sure their PACS vendor met their facility’s full range of requirements.
06-04-07

Examine | PACS: Finding the Speech Technology Perfect Match
Joe Thornton, BS, RT(R)(CV)
The Health Care Authority for Medical West makes the move to an entirely digital radiology department, with the help of the Dictaphone PowerScribe from Nuance.
07-02-07

Examine | PACS: Confessions of a CIIP Candidate
Bobby Himel, BS, RT(R)(CT)(MR), CIIP
PACS administrator Bobby Himel shares his recent experience with the newly established Certified Imaging Informatics Professional exam, which he took, along with 99 other attendees, during the Society for Imaging Informatics in Medicine’s annual meeting in June in Providence, R.I.
08-06-07

A Conversation with . . . Keith Dreyer, DO, PhD
Keri Forsythe
In rt image’s exclusive interview with Keith Dreyer, vice-chairman of radiology at Massachusetts General Hospital and assistant professor of radiology at Harvard Medical School, the radiologist discusses the benefits of a thin-client PACS and how radiology professionals can develop PACS proficiency.
08-13-07

Examine | PACS: ‘Bake-Off’ for PACS Selection
Brian D. Daily, MBA, CIIP
The process of selecting a PACS vendor can be a long and arduous task. But, the process can be simplified by assembling a multidisciplinary PACS search committee. This team will help make the best selection for the facility.
10-01-07

Examine | PACS: A Conversation with . . . Alex Jurovitsky
Alex Jurovitsky, CEO of Dynamic Imaging, discusses what’s new with PACS, why someone would want to replace their system, and integrating digital mammography into the mix.
11-05-07

Examine | PACS: What Does This All Really Mean?
Len Avecilla
A handful of early adopters have taken the first certification exam offered by an established organization in the health informatics sector. The question in blogs and chatrooms, peer-reviewed publications and boardrooms seems to be: “What for?” PACS guru Len Avecilla attempts to find the answers to what everyone is asking.
12-03-07


Patient Positioning

A Conversation with . . . John Stinson
Tom Schaffner
John Stinson, of Clear Image Devices, discusses the development of positioning devices for medical imaging.
01-08-07

Case Study: Seeking Solace
Janine Kusza
As cutting-edge technologies pierce the imaging community bubble, the comfort of the patient is often sidelined. Learn how leading radiology facilities are benefiting from Patient Comfort Systems’ line of imaging pads.
02-26-07

A Conversation with . . . Michael Czop
Jane Kollmer
rt image discusses trends in patient positioning, including the recent patenting of a new dimensionally stabilized foam, with Michael Czop, president of CFI Medical Solutions.
04-23-07


Patient Relations

Patient Relations in Pediatric Radiology
Jane Kollmer
Learn from experts, including a pediatric radiologist and a child life specialist, how to appropriately communicate with children and their families.
01-08-07

A Recipe for Success
Connie Wagner, BSRT (R)(MR)(M)
The imaging services department at Parkwest Medical Center had a mission: Create an environment for improved patient comfort and focus on peer interactions that promote a positive work environment focused on excellent patient care. Read had they made this happen.
02-26-07

Heads Up
Ryan Ferrier
Increasing research is demonstrating that soccer players are at high risk of sustaining craniofacial injuries. Learn how to detect these all-too-common injuries.
03-19-07

An Equal Opportunity Killer?
Keri Forsythe
Traditionally considered an “all-female” disease, breast cancer is breaking into a new demographic: the male population. But, due to the stigma associated with male breast cancer, some men battling this disease may not receive a correct diagnosis until it’s too late. However, certain advocacy groups are aspiring to spread awareness about male breast cancer and its possible warning signs. By educating the public about this disease, these groups hope to dispel potentially deadly myths about this potentially equal opportunity killer.
11-19-07


Personal Development

Managing Stress
Jeanna Eligon, Jeff Griffin and Kristin Heuser
As the wear and tear of the jobs chips away at your emotional and physical well-being, read how you can identify and better deal with the stress that can accompany your daily duties.
02-19-07

Personality Pointers
Keri Forsythe
Learn the distinguishable traits of people’s different temperaments, and how gaining a better understanding of them can be the key to getting along with your coworkers and employers.
06-04-07

Dress for Success
Keri Forsythe
As trivial as it seems, how you look has a strong link to how your patients, colleagues and supervisors view you. Read how scrubs really do make the person.
06-11-07

All That Jazz
Jane Kollmer
A career as the medical director of a busy outpatient PET/CT imaging center and one of the country’s leading PET experts would be enough to keep most people busy. But not Michael Fagien. A long-time jazz enthusiast, he started a magazine to promote jazz and other adult-oriented music. Learn how this “jack of two trades” devotes his time and talents to full-fledged careers in both medicine and music.
09-10-07


Professional Advancement

In Their Own Words
The long road through classrooms and clinicals can be tough for radiology students as they make their way to the professional arena. Read three different stories from the students themselves about what they’ve learned during this time.
04-09-07

Paving the Way: A Conversation with . . . Jay Mazurowski, CRA, FAHRA
The Leadership Institute of the American Healthcare Radiology Administrators (AHRA) is building tomorrow’s leaders today. In this exclusive interview with AHRA President Jay Mazurowski, CRA, FAHRA, you’ll find out, not only about the Institute, but what else is new with the organization.
06-18-07

Conference Bound
Bob Stott
What can you get out of attending a radiology conference? Before passing the next one up, learn what rt image has discovered about the career and life-enhancing opportunities you could gain.
07-16-07

25 Most Influential
Drumroll, please! After eliciting reader nominations and debating for hours, rt image is proud to present the 2007 roster of radiology’s most powerful people, institutions and organizations. Whether their influence comes in numbers or from the dedication of one, all those on our list demonstrate the drive, character and integrity that deserve the title of “Most Influential.”
09-03-07


Radiation Therapy

From the Inside Out
Janine Kusza
Through the work of researchers at the University of Southern California, targeted intraoperative radiotherapy provides the entire treatment dose at the time of surgery after removal of the breast cancer, with a considerable decrease in the usual side effects of conventional radiotherapy.
01-29-07

Case Study: Mobile Intraoperative Radiation Therapy
Donald A. Goer
The development of new medical technology is a true partnership between developer and user. Read how one partnership brought intraoperative electron beam radiation therapy into the operating room, where it could provide the greatest benefit.
04-02-07

Selective Internal Radiation Therapy
Mario Gallardo
In this paper that won third place in the Student category of the 2006 rt image Writing Competition, author Mario Gallardo explores the advantages and disadvantages of microsphere technology and ultimately demonstrates the beneficial application of selective internal radiation therapy as a palliative, or even curative, tool in treating hepatocellular carcinoma and liver metastases disease.
04-09-07

Tragedy Times Two
Lindsay Mathisen
Twenty-five to 30 years ago, childhood cancers were considered terminal. Now, thanks to the emergence of advanced pediatric oncology, children are beating this debilitating disease. But, experts believe that the effects of undergoing cancer treatment might be detrimental to these patients later in life.
04-16-07

Case Study: The Trilogy Effect
Lynn Yarris
Learn how cancer centers across the nation are using Varian Medical System Inc.’s Trilogy radiation therapy system to treat a wide spectrum of conditions.
07-16-07

Case Study: Keeping up and Even with the Joneses
As high-tech treatments increase, favoring nimble specialty clinics and advanced research facilities, Sinai Hospital had to figure out how to keep up with rising costs, the increasing premium on specialists, the proliferation of competing facilities and a shortage in crucial staffing, which can turn cancer care into a highly competitive landscape. The solution came in the shape of a CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery System from Accuray Inc.
08-13-07

A Conversation with . . . Eric Lindquist
Keri Forsythe
In rt image’s exclusive interview with Eric Lindquist, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of Sunnyvale, Calif.-based Accuray Inc., he discusses his company’s latest technologies and how they’re bringing innovation to the radiosurgery market.
09-17-07

Data Sheet . . . Treatment Planning Systems
Which vendor’s Treatment Planning System is the best fit for your facility? rt image gathers the specs – you decide.
10-01-07


Radiologist Issues

Recruiting Radiologists
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
For several years now, the demand for radiologists has exceeded the supply, causing a challenge for some hospitals and imaging practices and allowing these in-demand specialists their pick of positions. With no sign that the demand from employers will abate or the supply of trained radiologists will increase any time soon, employers are learning that flexibility and incentives are key to attracting the professionals they need.
01-01-07

A Voice for the Voiceless
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
Few legal issues carry as much emotional weight as one involving potential child abuse. Whether they are called to testify, to advise the responsible clinician or to take and process the images, the members of the radiology team are key to ensuring that justice is served.
01-08-07

Case Study: Inland’s Improvement
John Copeland
Bogged down with a high volume of radiology reports, Inland Imaging had to find a way to reduce turnaround times. Learn how they called upon the convenience of speech recognition software to achieve this task.
08-20-07


Radiation Dosage

Generation X-ray
Cynthia E. Keen
In an increasingly digital age, it’s becoming more important for imaging service providers to both record radiation doses and provide parents with digital X-rays and records of their children’s diagnostic procedures. Learn how some children’s hospitals are rising to the challenge and counseling patients and families about future imaging procedures.
04-16-07

Prepare for Take-Off
Lytrese Pratt and Ann Strekel
There have been international concerns associated with cosmic radiation and risk factors involving flying and the threat of cancer development. To the average person who may occasionally fly, the chance of biological damage due to radiation exposure is minute. However, the flight crew, as well as people who travel frequently, may unknowingly be exposed to excessively large doses of radiation.
08-20-07

Perfect Exposure
The VIP in George Xu’s radiological engineering laboratory is not the principal investigator himself. VIP-Man (VIsible Photographic Man) is a computer code containing 3 billion voxels of information. And it is used to study how radiation affects the human body, with hopes of understanding how electrons, neutrons and protons interact with and cause damage to human tissues.
10-01-07


Radiology Information Systems

Data Sheet . . . RIS
Which vendor’s radiology information system is the best fit for your facility? rt image gathers the specs – you decide.
11-05-07


Staffing Issues

Examine | Staffing: Employment Networking
Dana J. Viall
Brad Karsh, founder and president of JobBound.com, offers tips and advice for job seekers looking to get to the heart of the web that is networking.
02-19-07

Examine | Staffing: They Did What?
Radiology professionals relay some of their funniest tales of hirings, interviewees and other tales. From the new hire that became the new roommate to the interviewee with the confrontational personality, these stories are sure to amuse.
04-16-07

A Conversation with . . . Kenneth Gould
Tom Schaffner
Kenneth Gould, CEO of RadWorking.com, discusses the decade-long success his online career network has experienced and the growth of the Internet job search in radiology.
05-21-07

Data Sheet . . . Staffing
Searching for a staffing company to fulfill your staffing needs? Or maybe even a career change? Our comparison chart will help you find the best company to suit your needs. You can also find this and our other products/services comparison charts online, at www.rt-image.com/datasheet.
06-04-07

Examine | Staffing: The Misunderstood
Christopher J. Bachler
Strong communication is essential in most professions, but especially in healthcare, where there is little room for error. The key is to know the pitfalls in communication and learn how to avoid them.
06-18-07

Examine | Staffing: ARRT Primary Exam Volumes Continued Through 2006
An overall increase of nearly 7 percent over the previous year shows the upward trend in the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists’ primary exam volume for first-time candidates continuing through a sixth consecutive year.
07-16-07

Examine | Staffing: Inside the CRA
Michael R. Hughes, CRA, FAHRA
Michael R. Hughes, chairman of the Radiology Administrator Certification Commission, discusses the past, present and future of the certified radiology administrator exam.
09-17-07

Examine | Staffing: Background Checking Employees
Haley K. Jestice
A background check generally serves to verify an applicant’s information and qualifications for a specific job. But in healthcare, employers need to be extra cautious when hiring. Learn how to conduct thorough background checks to ensure you’re hiring the best person for the job.
10-15-07

Examine | Staffing: A Hostile Environment
Tina Scott, MA, RT(R)
The constant obstacles and challenges that unravel in the workplace force individuals to react to an unfulfilling work environment, causing them much tension. This article provides readers with the proper tools that are needed to survive when working in a hostile environment.
11-19-07


Storage

Case Study: Adopting an EPID
Dan Odero, PhD
When Raleigh Regional Cancer Center was looking for a more efficient method to obtain portal films using advanced technology, they turned to Acceletronics and the TheraView imaging system.
02-12-07

Case Study: Losing the Paper Trail
Paper storage was a literally a heavy burden for University of Southern California’s (USC) department of radiology. Fortunately, USC was able to lighten its burden by embracing digital technology.
08-13-07

Vital Information
Mike Koclanes
With regulatory compliance initiatives requiring hospitals and medical clinics to retain a vast amount of data for lengthy periods of time, medical professionals are finding that data management has become increasingly critical, as well as complex. The good news is that establishing a strategy that incorporates archiving as a key component is not as complicated or costly as some might think.
10-15-07


Technology Development

Image-Based Surgical Planning
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University have developed an innovative new technology that will help pediatric cardiac surgeons design and test a customized surgical procedure before they ever pick up a scalpel.
01-08-07

Imaging Liberty
Leah R. Troiano
The crack on the famed Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is one of the most recognizable symbols of American freedom. And thanks to the innovations of 3-D imaging, scientists hope to preserve the bell for future generations to admire.
01-15-07

Doing the Math
Researchers from Vanderbilt University and the University of Dundee in Scotland have developed a computational model for cancer invasion and tumor growth.
01-22-07

Imaging the Kidneys
D.M. Lamontanaro, PhD
Physicians are greatly challenged by complex renal disorders. However, renal imaging methods are offering practitioners valuable visual data so that they can meet the challenge of kidney diseases.
01-22-07

A Changing Landscape
Tal M. Roth
In 2006, more than 230,000 men in the U.S. were diagnosed with prostate cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, another 30,000 men died from the disease, making it the second deadliest form of cancer among men. rt image investigates the latest options available to increase survival rates and decrease unwanted side effects.
01-29-07

Battlefield Radiology
Abraham T. Machado
This article that won first place in the student category of the 2006 rt image Writer’s Competition discusses imaging’s powerful role in historical – and modern – warfare.
03-12-07

A New Chance at Life
Matthew N. Skoufalos
When 57-year old Ben Smith learned his cancer was inoperable, he turned to IBA Particle Therapy and the researchers at the Florida Proton Radiotherapy Institute for help.
03-26-07

A Personal Mission
Keri Forsythe
As co-founder, president and CEO of NeuroLogica Corp., Eric Bailey is certainly no stranger to ambition. In 2004, Bailey established NeuroLogica with the goal of providing patients with high-quality medical imaging systems and enabling physicians to make informed treatment decisions in emergency, high-risk situations. A mission, Bailey says, that is all to close to his heart.
04-30-07

A Conversation with . . . Walter Wolf, PhD
Tom Schaffner
Walter Wolf, PhD, discusses the recent workshop which brought together international experts in pharmaceutical development, cancer research, regulatory management and non-invasive medical imaging.
04-30-07

Cancer Stem Cells
D.M. Lamontanaro, PhD
In recent developments that will impact the direction of cancer research, scientists have identified a small subset of stem cells that can proliferate and become cancer cells. These stem cells are now called cancer stem cells and are considered by many scientists to be the root cells of all cancers.
07-09-07

Vibro-Acoustography
Azra Alizad, MD; Dana H. Whaley, MD; James F. Greenleaf, PhD; and Mostafa Fatemi, PhD
Vibro-acoustography (VA) is an innovative, non-invasive imaging method that is sensitive to tissue stiffness. Typical VA images have high resolution and high contrast. Both soft tissue and microcalcifications can be imaged with VA, making this method an ideal tool for breast imaging. Read on and find out why this is the latest hot topic in radiology.
08-06-07

New Kid on the Block
Jane Kollmer
With the rise of fusion imaging, researchers are trying to get the best qualities of multiple modalities. A prototype that combines the exceptional soft-tissue contrast of MRI with the excellent metabolic functionality of PET has been developed as a new brain imaging modality. This new technology has the potential to become the preferred imaging modality for neurological studies, certain forms of cancer, stroke and stem cell therapy.
09-10-07

CT Laser Mammography
Eric Milne, MD, FRCR, FRCP
Thanks to advanced CT technology, experts are using laser light projected through the breast and sophisticated software to construct an image that can help a diagnostician determine whether or not breast cancer is present. Find out what differentiates this technology from conventional mammography and ultrasound.
09-17-07

Case Study: From Minutes to Seconds
Learn how Montreal General shortened the treatment time for its rectal cancer patients by implementing Nucletron’s HDR brachytherapy with 3-D image guidance.
10-01-07

Clearing Hurdles
Matthew N. Skoufalos
Only a handful of facilities in the United States are equipped to offer proton therapy. And since proton therapy treatment centers are tremendously expensive to construct, operate and maintain, many obstacles stand in the way of their mainstream adoption. However, with the help of ProCure Treatment Center Inc., proton therapy may soon be more widely used to treat cancer.
10-08-07

A Conversation with . . . Yoram Palti, MD, PhD
Tom Schaffner
Yoram Palti, MD, PhD, discusses his groundbreaking work with electric field therapy and how it differs from traditional radiation therapy and chemotherapy when fighting cancer.
10-08-07

A Golden Opportunity
Douglas M. Main
Purdue University researchers have created gold nanoparticles that are capable of identifying marker proteins on breast cancer cells, making the tiny particles a potential tool to better diagnose and treat cancer. The technology would be about three times cheaper than the most common current method and has the potential to provide greater quantity and quality of data.
10-15-07

A Conversation with . . . Marcia C. Javitt, MD
Tom Schaffner
Marcia Javitt, MD, chair of the WomensImagingOnline advisory panel, discusses the American Roentgen Ray Society’s launch of their new online community and what makes the site so unique.
10-22-07

Imaging Moving Babies
Haley K. Jestice
Previous techniques, such as PET, MRI or fMRI, remain troublesome for imaging pediatric patients. Recently, researchers have demonstrated a more efficient and functional approach to the future of pediatric imaging: diffuse optical tomography, which shows evidence of overcoming previous limitations.
10-22-07

RSNA Product Preview

11-14-07

News from RSNA 2007
If you missed the big RSNA show in Chicago, have no fear. rt image was there, collecting breaking news that stands to change the face of radiology. From MRI and SPECT to ultrasound and PACS, big changes lie ahead.
12-10-07


Teleradiology

A Conversation with . . . Paul E. Berger, MD
Paul Berger, MD, founder and CEO of NightHawk Radiology Services, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, talks about his company’s trailblazing success, its Talon workflow solutions and software and choosing a teleradiology provider.
01-01-07

Data Sheet . . . Teleradiology
Which teleradiology service is the best fit for your facility? rt image gathers the specifications from the leading vendors in the industry for you to compare.
01-01-07

The Emergence of Teleradiology
Tom Schaffner
From its fight in the early days to gain acceptance to its unprecedented growth to combat the radiologist shortage, teleradiology has grown by leaps and bounds in the last few years. Experts in the teleradiology field take a look into the crystal ball to speculate where the field needs to go next.
06-04-07

A Conversation with . . . Michael Rothman, MD
Keri Forsythe
In rt image’s exclusive interview with Michael Rothman, MD, the neuroradiologist discusses how he started his own teleradiology practice and lets readers in on what he believes is affecting the teleradiology industry.
07-31-07

Increasing Radiology’s Reach
Jane Kollmer
Experts in teleradiology share some of the contributing factors to teleradiology’s rapid expansion into healthcare and what it means for the future of imaging services.
07-31-07

Transitioning to Teleradiology
Keri Forsythe
Before you make the switch to teleradiology, learn what the experts have to say about their profession and the challenges you may face.
07-31-07

Viewpoint: The Rise of Remote Radiology
Meghan Howard
Only now is teleradiology moving at such a rate that it is vital for radiologists to have a broad understanding of the professional, clinical, ethical and legal implications of this progression. Read why this field is taking radiology by storm.
07-31-07

Examine | Teleradiology: Changing the Rules of the Game
In this case study, learn why Radiology Associates of South Florida turned to Expand Networks to improve their turnaround.
08-06-07

Examine | Teleradiology: Viewpoint– Overseas Teleradiology
Timothy Farrell, MD, FACR
Radiologist Timothy Farrell discusses his commitment to overcome the technological challenges facing radiologists and the inevitable effect the radiologist shortage will have on the future of medicine and networking advice.
09-03-07

Examine | Teleradiology: Introducing Shehnaz Pancholi
Keri Forsythe
Shehnaz Pancholi is your typical working mother – always on the go and a tad sleep-deprived. But three simple letters attributed to Pancholi’s name separate her from the vast majority of other mothers: C-E-O. Learn how Pancholi, as founder and CEO of Teleradiology America and Pediatric Radiology of America, has made a name for herself in the male-dominated teleradiology industry.
10-01-07

A Conversation with . . . Stephen Pomeranz, MD
Jane Kollmer
Stephen Pomeranz, MD, of Proscan Imaging, talks about some of teleradiology’s quality assurance initiatives and discusses the important questions customers should ask before purchasing teleradiology services.
10-29-07

Viewpoint: Putting the ‘Q’ Back in ‘QA’
Jesse Salen, MBA, Samuel Salen, MD, and Alix Vincent, MD
As teleradiology continues to make the transition to a final reports business, the inequality in QA standards should level out. But, currently, the radiologist or hospital that is considering outsourcing reads must remember that perception is not always reality, such that teleradiology groups are compared against a higher QA standard, and may actually have fewer misses than the in-house radiology group.
10-29-07

Viewpoint: Quality Matters
David Cohen, MD
In the last decade, the emergence of large teleradiology groups has fueled a paradigm shift in the practice of radiology. Learn from a quality assurance officer how teleradiology is stepping in to provide excellent service to referring physicians and improve patient care.
10-29-07

Examine | Teleradiology: A Job You Love
Tom Schaffner
When Kelcey D. Elsass first started her career in radiology, she thought teleradiology might be a possibility someday. At that time, the term “teleradiology” was more of a term thrown about in the industry, and not the staple that it is today. But after a seven-year stint in the military ended, she found that teleradiology was now alive and thriving – and waiting for her.
11-05-07

Examine | Teleradiology: The Most Remote Place on Earth
On the remote island of Tristan da Cunha, located more than 1,600 miles west of Cape Town, South Africa, its 270 residents find medical relief in the form of telemedicine and the generosity of the radiological community.
12-03-07


Ultrasound

Patching up Babies
Jennifer Patterson Lorenzetti
To better detect fetal abnormalities, a variety of imaging techniques are now providing increasingly accurate pictures to physicians and surgeons.
01-08-07

Imaging Multiples
Desiree B. Mitchell
With the number of multiple births rising, sonographers will most likely encounter imaging more than one fetus at a time. Learn about the technology available and brush up on your knowledge of the risks and complications that may accompany multiple pregnancies.
03-05-07

Data Sheet . . . Ultrasound
Searching for a new ultrasound system for your facility? Then look no further. rt image has assembled the stats on vendor’s ultrasound offerings for you to check out and compare these and our other product and services charts.
03-05-07

Ultrasound Gone Wild
Amy Storer
See how, in a groundbreaking account, imaging professionals use 4-D ultrasound technology to capture video from inside the wombs of three mammals – an elephant, a dolphin and a dog – to trace their vastly different paths from conception to birth and uncover evolutionary clues to their ancestral past by observing the fetus’ in utero development.
05-21-07

A Conversation with . . . Janice Blackwell
Tom Schaffner
Janice Blackwell, vice president of ultrasound marketing at Philips Medical Systems, discusses cardiac imaging’s rise in the market, the latest innovations from Philips and her predictions on the “Next Big Thing” to hit ultrasound.
06-25-07

Case Study: Maintaining Productivity
Lisa Brandli
Productivity is a primary concern in every radiology department. Yet productivity is adversely affected when sonographers experience injury due to work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Read how Lexington Medical Center in South Carolina increased productivity and improved efficiencies with the help of Philips Medical Systems’ iU22 ultrasound system with protocols.
09-24-07

3-D Ultrasound
Jane Kollmer
Traditional techniques of detecting a brain tumor rely on 2-D images produced by MRI and ultrasound, making it hard to view the entire tumor. To solve this problem, researchers at Duke University have developed a 3-D ultrasound scanner to guide minimally invasive brain surgeries and provide better detection of a brain tumor’s location. Learn how this new technology works and how it is helping surgeons navigate the brain better.
12-03-07


Workstations

Finding Your Comfort Zone
Everyone needs a place to work, but what should you ask when finding the best workstation for you? Experts in the industry tackle the questions you should ask and provide the answers you need to know before you open your wallet.
03-12-07

Data Sheet . . . Ergonomic Workstation Furniture
Which vendor’s ergonomic workstation furniture is the best fit for your facility? rt image gathers the product specifications from the leading manufacturers in the industry for you to compare.
12-03-07