Showing papers on "Imaging technology published in 2009"

Challenges in clinical prostate cancer: role of imaging.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE. This article reviews a recent 2-day workshop on prostate cancer and imaging technology that was conducted by the Cancer Imaging Program of the National Cancer Institute. The workshop dea...

Cone beam CT in dental practice.

Abstract: Cone Beam Computed Tomography is a relatively new three-dimensional imaging technology, which has been specifically developed for imaging of the teeth and jaws. The aim of this paper is to acquaint the dental team with various forms of this technology and its potential applications. An understanding of the underlying principles will allow the users of this technology to tailor the imaging protocol to the patient's individual needs to achieve appropriate imaging at the lowest radiation dose.

Imaging of liver cancer

Abstract: Improvements in imaging technology allow exploitation of the dual blood supply of the liver to aid in the identification and characterisation of both malignant and benign liver lesions. Imaging techniques available include contrast enhanced ultrasound, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. This review discusses the application of several imaging techniques in the diagnosis and staging of both hepatocellular carcinoma and cholangiocarcinoma and outlines certain characteristics of benign liver lesions. The advantages of each imaging technique are highlighted, while underscoring the potential pitfalls and limitations of each imaging modality.

Optical coherence tomography for imaging of skin and skin diseases.

Abstract: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an emerging imaging technology based on light reflection. It provides real-time images with up to 2-mm penetration into the skin and a resolution of approximately 10 microm. It is routinely used in ophthalmology. The normal skin and its appendages have been studied, as have many diseases. The method can provide accurate measures of epidermal and nail changes in normal tissue. Skin cancer and other tumors, as well as inflammatory diseases, have been studied and good agreement found between OCT images and histopathological architecture. OCT also allows noninvasive monitoring of morphologic changes in skin diseases and may have a particular role in the monitoring of medical treatment of nonmelanoma skin cancer. The technology is however still evolving and continued technological development will necessitate an ongoing evaluation of its diagnostic accuracy. Several technical solutions are being pursued to further improve the quality of the images and the data provided, and OCT is being integrated in multimodal imaging devices that would potentially be able to provide a quantum leap to the imaging of skin in vivo.

Active millimeter-wave standoff and portal imaging techniques for personnel screening

Abstract: Active millimeter-wave imaging systems can be configured as personnel screening portals or standoff systems that can operate at ranges of up to 20 meters or more. The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) has developed a variety of active millimeter-wave imaging systems and technologies including the cylindrical imaging technique that has been successfully commercialized with L3-Communications/Safeview, and has continued to advance the cylindrical imaging technology using higher frequency ranges up to 100 GHz, and polarimetric imaging techniques. In addition, a standoff, three-dimensional imaging technique and prototype that operates near 350 GHz has been developed. This prototype system uses focusing optics coupled to a high-speed mirror scanning system and can obtain an image in 10 seconds, which is sufficiently fast to conduct extensive imaging tests on cooperative subjects. In this paper, these advanced imaging techniques are described in detail and numerous experimental imaging results are shown.

Characterization of Genitourinary Lesions with Diffusion-weighted Imaging

Abstract: Diffusion-weighted imaging has been widely accepted as a powerful imaging technique in neuroradiology. Until recently, the inclusion of diffusion-weighted sequences in body imaging protocols has been hindered by technical limitations. However, with advances in magnetic resonance (MR) imaging technology and technique, these limitations are being overcome. The addition of diffusion-weighted sequences to routine abdominopelvic MR imaging protocols has been found to yield diagnostically useful information with only a minimal increase in imaging time. More specifically, the use of diffusion-weighted imaging in the genitourinary system can facilitate the detection and characterization of genitourinary tract lesions that demonstrate equivocal signal intensity characteristics with routine MR imaging sequences. Diffusion-weighted imaging is not only helpful in differentiating benign from malignant processes, but it can also be used to assess meta-static lesions, possible tumor recurrence, and treatment response. Because it does not require injection of a gadolinium-based contrast agent, diffusion-weighted imaging can be used in patients with renal insufficiency or contrast material allergy. Most of the body diffusion-weighted imaging studies reported in the literature to date have been conducted with 1.5-T magnets. However, the feasibility of body diffusion-weighted imaging at 3.0 T is currently under investigation in an effort to determine the efficacy of the routine inclusion of diffusion-weighted imaging sequences in 3.0-T body MR imaging protocols.

Utilization of advanced imaging technologies for target delineation in radiation oncology.

Abstract: Purpose The aim of this study was to evaluate the utilization of advanced imaging technologies for target delineation among radiation oncologists in the United States. Methods A random sample of 1,600 radiation oncologists was contacted by Internet, e-mail, and fax and questioned regarding the use of advanced imaging technologies, clinical applications, and future plans for use. Advanced imaging technologies were defined as any of the following that were directly incorporated into radiation therapy planning: MRI, PET, single-photon emission CT, 4-D CT, functional MRI, and MR spectroscopy. Results Of 1,089 contactable physicians, 394 (36%) responded. Of respondents, 65% were in private practice and 35% were in academic practice. The proportion using any advanced imaging technology for target delineation was 95%. However, the majority reported only rare (in 18 F]fluoro-2-deoxyglucose PET (76%), MRI (72%), and 4-D CT (44%). The most common cancers treated using image-guided target delineation were those of the lung (83%), central nervous system (79%), and head and neck (79%). Among users of advanced imaging technologies, 66% planned to increase use; 30% of nonusers planned to adopt these technologies in the future. Conclusions Advanced imaging technologies are widely used by US radiation oncologists for target delineation. Although the majority of respondents used them in

Adoption And Spread Of New Imaging Technology: A Case Study

Abstract: Technology is a major driver of health care costs. Hospitals are rapidly acquiring one new technology in particular: 64-slice computed tomography (CT), which can be used to image coronary...

Imaging in percutaneous nephrolithotomy.

Abstract: Image guidance is a critical factor for the performance of urologic interventions. Percutaneous minimally invasive procedures have been developed and are being used with constantly increasing frequency. Procedures such as percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) are not performed without any image guidance. Recent developments in medical imaging, such as three-dimensional radiographic fluoroscopy, CT, and magnetic resonance (MR) fluoroscopy, four-dimensional ultrasonography, and image fusion techniques, propose a new generation of image-guidance tools that promise to improve patient care. These developments have been used or have the potential to be used in PCNL and other urologic interventional procedures. Moreover, advanced needles and needle guidance systems provide a new perspective for the nephrolithotomy suite of the future. The current review presents existing imaging technology in PCNL and interventional urology as well as advanced imaging techniques that are being or are expected to be evaluated in PCNL practice.

Development Status of Millimeter Wave Imaging Systems for Concealed Detection

Abstract: Millimeter wave imaging technology can be used in the field of remote sensing,and so on.Near-field millimeter wave imaging technology in the human body to detect concealed items have important applications.The basic principle of MMW imaging system for concealed detection of human body is introduced briefly,some applied systems are analyzed,development status and Latest results are summarized synthetically.Some representative systems are listed from the aspect of appearance,effect and performance,and the principles of imaging are introduced in detailed.Millimeter wave imaging systems to explore the development trend,and for the future millimeter wave imaging technology provides the basic reference.

Advances in anterior segment imaging and analysis.

Abstract: PURPOSE OF REVIEW Efforts to visualize and quantify key aspects of anterior segment ocular anatomy have fostered the development of many new imaging modalities and supportive technological advances in the last decade. This has been accompanied by an increase in the quantity and complexity of data available to the clinician. This article briefly reviews recent imaging advances and new challenges in the effective use of these complex datasets to solve clinical problems. RECENT FINDINGS The current revolution in corneal imaging includes two advancing fronts: new or improved imaging modalities and new methods of data representation. Areas of significant activity include increased speed and resolution, enhanced microstructural imaging, and marked increases in the amount of data available on the three-dimensional macrostructure and microstructure of the cornea. Some efforts to represent these data in clinically useful terms and to emphasize critical interpretation of the end-user data are reviewed. SUMMARY Recent advances in anterior segment imaging technology bring new opportunities and novel challenges to the end-user. These developments are capable of producing increasingly sophisticated three-dimensional representations of the anterior segment that will support novel applications for the diagnosis and treatment of anterior segment disease.

Terahertz imaging: a report on progress

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide details of recent developments in terahertz (THz) imaging technology and its applications.Design/methodology/approach – This paper first discusses the properties, perceived imaging uses and sources of THz radiation. It then describes passive and active imaging systems through reference to commercial products and their applications. Finally, it considers future prospects and key technological developments.Findings – This paper shows that the commercialisation of passive and active imaging systems has been gradual but uses are emerging in a range of security, material testing and healthcare applications. Market development has been hindered in part by the high cost of systems and certain technological and operational limitations. Research which aims to overcome these problems is widespread and much involves the development of improved sources and detectors.Originality/value – The paper provides a detailed insight into the present state of THz imaging technol...

MR Cholangiopancreatography at 3.0 T

Abstract: The rapid evolution of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging technology has produced much-needed improvements in temporal and spatial resolution that have led to greater recognition of diseases of the hepatobiliary and pancreatic ducts at MR cholangiopancreatography. This modality often substitutes for diagnostic evaluations with endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography. Recent innovations in whole-body MR imaging, including fast imaging sequences, phased-array coils, parallel imaging techniques, and 3.0-T magnets, allow the acquisition of higher-quality diagnostic images in less time. An understanding of these technical advances and their potential clinical applications, limitations, and pitfalls for cholangiopancreatographic evaluation is as essential as a familiarity with the spectrum of possible findings; both are needed to accurately identify and characterize the disease process and to provide effective guidance for treatment.

Advanced signal processing : theory and implementation for sonar, radar, and non-invasive medical diagnostic systems

Abstract: Signal Processing Concept Similarities among Sonar, Radar and Noninvasive Medical Diagnostic Systems, S Stergiopoulos Section I Generic Topics on Signal Processing Adaptive Systems for Signal Process, S Haykin Advanced Beamformers, S Stergiopoulos Advanced Applications of Volume Visualization Methods in Medicine, G Sakas, G Karangelis and A Pommert Medical Image Registration and Fusion Techniques: A Review, G K Matsopoulos Segmentation, Registration and Fusion of Medical Images, M Erdt Acoustic Diffraction Computed Tomography Imaging, S Stergiopoulos, W A Younis, J Grodski and D Havelock A Review on Face and Gait Recognition: System, Data and Algorithms, Haiping Lu, Jie Wang and K N Plataniotis Section II Sonar and Radar System Applications Detection Paradigms for Radar, B Balaji, M K McDonald, and A Damini Sonar Systems, G Clifford Carter, S K Mehta and B E McTaggart Theory and Implementation of Advanced Signal Processing for Active and Passive Sonar Systems, S Stergiopoulos and G Edelson Section III Medical Diagnostic System Applications Digital 3D/4D Ultrasound Imaging Technology, S Stergiopoulos Magnetic Resonance Tomography-Imaging with a Nonlinear System, A Oppelt Organ Motion Effects in Medical CT Imaging Applications, I Cunningham, S Stergiopoulos and A Dhanantwari Cardiac Motion Effects in MultiSlice Medical CT Imaging Applications, S Stergiopoulos and W A Younis NonInvasive Monitoring of Vital Signs and Traumatic Brain Injuries, S Stergiopoulos, A Freibert, J Zhang and D Hatzinakos Examination of Contrast Agents in Medical Imaging using Physiologically Constrained Deconvolution, R Z Stodilka, B Lewden, M Jerosch-Herold, E Sabondjian, and FS Prato Arterial Spin Labeling: A Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technique for Measuring Cerebral Perfusion, K St Lawrence, D G Owen and F S Prato Computer Aided Diagnosis in Mammography with Emphasis on Automatic Detection of Microcalcifications, Y Man Ro, S Ho Jin and K N Plataniotis

Imaging and management of the incidentally discovered renal mass.

Abstract: Improvements in imaging technology and the expanding use of imaging have led to a rapid increase in the discovery of incidental renal lesions. These can present both the radiologist and the referring clinician with diagnostic dilemmas. This article addresses the most frequently encountered lesions and provides a framework for the diagnostic and management pathways for both solid and cystic lesions.

Clinical utility of contrast-enhanced echocardiography.

Abstract: Over the past three decades, echocardiography has become a major diagnostic tool in the arsenal of clinical cardiology for real-time imaging of cardiac dynamics. More and more, cardiologists' decisions are based on images created from ultrasound wave reflections. From the time ultrasound imaging technology provided the first insight into a human heart, our diagnostic capabilities have increased exponentially as a result of our growing knowledge and developing technologies. One of the most intriguing developments that brought about a decade-long combination of expectations and disappointments was the introduction of echocardiographic contrast agents. Despite repeated waves of controversy regarding the readiness of this technology for clinical use, it has overcome multiple hurdles and currently provides useful clinical information that helps cardiologists to diagnose heart disease accurately. Since the initial reports on the use of ultrasound contrast media such as agitated saline or renografin, the major advances in the field of contrast echocardiography have included (1) the development of stable perfluorocarbon-filled microbubbles, frequently referred to as second-generation contrast agents; and (2) the development of contrast-targeted nonlinear imaging modes, such as harmonic imaging, pulse inversion, and power modulation, which allow consistent real-time visualization of these agents. These contrast agents in conjunction with the new imaging technology constitute powerful tools that improve our ability to evaluate left ventricular function and myocardial perfusion, and allow differential diagnosis of thrombi and intravascular masses. In this manuscript, we briefly review some of the literature that has provided the scientific basis for the use of echocardiographic contrast agents in the context of these important variables.

Ultrasound imaging for the rheumatologist XIX. Imaging modalities in rheumatoid arthritis.

Abstract: The field of inflammatory arthritis owes much to the advances in imaging technology which have enlightened not only clinical specialists but also researchers worldwide. The most exciting developments in recent decades have centred upon rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and more specifically the ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings at various stages of the natural history of this condition. Investigation of RA using the standard techniques of plain radiography (x-ray) and more sophisticated computerised tomography (CT) have now been superseded by the exponential growth of use of US and MRI and this has been born out by the profusion of scientific papers published on these subjects.This paper aims to review the array of imaging modalities available as investigative tools to the rheumatologist when presented with various clinical scenarios by patients with RA.

An emerging imaging technology to assist in the localization of axial spine pain.

Abstract: xial spine pain is a common condition with a broad differential diagnosis. Despite a horough history and physical examination, it is often difficult to determine a specific pain enerator with 100% certainty [1-6]. Some clinicians have promoted a diagnostic “block” aradigm in which targeted structures in the axial skeleton are sequentially blocked with ocal anesthetic and the patient’s response is systematically monitored. Although such a iagnostic paradigm may indeed identify a patient’s pain generator, the monetary cost and otential health risk of multiple invasive procedures are not trivial. Standard imaging, including plain films, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic esonance imaging (MRI), have low predictive value for posterior element pain [7]. Bone cans have high sensitivity for increased bone turnover but low diagnostic specificity [8,9]. one scans performed with the addition of single-positron emission computed tomography SPECT) improve spatial resolution, but often not to the degree needed for accurate ocalization of a pain generator. The authors report preliminary data on an emerging imaging technology that potentially an assist in the localization of axial spine pain. The imaging technique, which has been eferred to by some as a “fire scan,” involves the digital fusion or overlay of a CT scan of the rea of interest with a bone scan with SPECT imaging. The fire scan provides the anatomic esolution of the CT scan plus the sensitivity of the bone scan. The premise is that combining he results of these 2 complementary studies with the clinical assessment will enhance the iagnostic capabilities of identifying a distinct structure as a source of pain. The CT portion f the study also provides useful osseous information, for example, the extent of zygapophsial (facet) joint arthropathy when considering an intra-articular injection. Fire scans use the following technique. Patients are injected intravenously with 20 mCi 740 MBq) Tc-methylene diphosphonate (MDP). For the subsequent 3 hours between njection and scanning, oral hydration is encouraged. Duplicating the positioning for the CT can, patients are then placed supine on the gamma camera imaging table. Using a ual-headed gamma camera; a low-energy, high-resolution collimator; and a matrix of 28 128, operators acquire SPECT images (64 per head) over 360 degrees (180 degrees er head) for a total of 30 seconds per stop. SPECT images are processed with a Gaussian 8.0 lter and a 1.5 zoom. A CT scan of the region of interest is separately performed in helical ashion without intravenous or oral contrast. Fusion of SPECT and CT images is performed ff-line with the use of e.soft 3D software (Siemens, New York, NY). Technical advances ow allow for the CT and nuclear medicine portions of the fire scan to be performed imultaneously with the same scanner.

Ultrasound elastography: enabling technology for image guided laparoscopic prostatectomy

Abstract: Radical prostatectomy using the laparoscopic and robot-assisted approach lacks tactile feedback. Without palpation, the surgeon needs an affordable imaging technology which can be easily incorporated into the laparoscopic surgical procedure, allowing for precise real time intraoperative tumor localization that will guide the extent of surgical resection. Ultrasound elastography (USE) is a novel ultrasound imaging technology that can detect differences in tissue density or stiffness based on tissue deformation. USE was evaluated here as an enabling technology for image guided laparoscopic prostatectomy. USE using a 2D Dynamic Programming (DP) algorithm was applied on data from ex vivo human prostate specimens. It proved consistent in identification of lesions; hard and soft, malignant and benign, located in the prostate's central gland or in the peripheral zone. We noticed the 2D DP method was able to generate low-noise elastograms using two frames belonging to the same compression or relaxation part of the palpation excitation, even at compression rates up to 10%. Good preliminary results were validated by pathology findings, and also by in vivo and ex vivo MR imaging. We also evaluated the use of ultrasound elastography for imaging cavernous nerves; here we present data from animal model experiments.

Active MMW focal plane imaging system

Abstract: Millimeter wave imaging technology has received a lot of attention in recent years. It has been widely applied in aircraft landing guidance system, dangerous substance inspection, plasma tests and human carry on safety inspection. It can be applied in many areas in the future. This paper studies an active millimeter wave focal plane imaging system. Among the theory and key techniques of millimeter wave imaging, the optical imaging system is designed and automatic scanning, automatic data collection and image processing are implemented. In the experiment system, the automatic focal plane scanning of the receiver antenna array, data collection around the imaging spots of the 94GHz millimeter wave, automatic imaging and image optimization are carried out at the computer. The experiment verifies the practicability of the design of the diffractive lens and the detection of hidden objects.

Prism-grating-prism imaging system

Abstract: The invention discloses a prism-grating-prism spectrum imaging system which is integrated with the imaging technology and the light-splitting technology and has the direct vision property. The imaging system is mainly composed of a collimator objective, a prism-grating-prism (PGP) light-splitting element and an imaging objective. The prisms of the PGP light-splitting element are in an axisymmetric distribution, the light incident angle and the light diffraction angle on the grating meet the bragg conditions of grating; the collimator objective and the imaging objective are in a four glass system structure, the object space and the image space meet telecentric optical paths, and the surface of a receiver has mean illunication. The system has the advantages of higher light energy transmission, favorable imaging quality, direct vision, small volume, easy carrying, high spectral resolution and easy processing, assembly and adjustment. All the lenses or prisms are made of common domestic common glass, so the mass production cost is reduced. The imaging system can be used in the spectral cameras in the field of biomedicine, and also can be made into a civil hyper-spectral imaging system such as a pen type spectroscope and the like.

Luminescent imaging technology as an opportunity to reduce and refine animal experiments: Light at the end of the tunnel?

Abstract: In vivo luminescent imaging technology was introduced in experimental life science research several years ago and has rapidly gained wide acceptance. By making use of this technology substantially more information can be gained from animal experiments than was previously possible. The concept of the 3Rs describes the aim to Refine, Reduce and Replace animal models in research. The goal of the present paper is to systematically investigate the impact of luminescent imaging on the 3Rs. In particular, three examples of applications are explained in detail so as to be accessible to the reader unfamiliar with the procedure. The examples are subsequently analysed for and categorised according to their concrete effect on animal welfare as defined by the 3Rs.