Using AI for Lung Disease Diagnosis

 

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. Five-year survival rates are at roughly 20 percent, according to Cancer.net. Those who smoke cigarettes have the highest risk for disease, along with nonsmokers who are exposed to toxins like arsenic, radon, asbestos, radiation, air pollution, and more.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been introduced to help diagnose the presence of lung cancer. Imaging is critical to lung cancer care; with help from AI, lung cancer can potentially be spotted sooner.

A new study combines CT information with clinical data to precisely forecast lung cancer. The AI considers factors such as nodule size, age, years smoked, cancer history, occupational exposure, and more.

More than four million people worldwide die prematurely due to a severe respiratory illness each year. Long-term exposure to dangerous toxins, particles, gases, or harsh temperatures can significantly affect the lungs. Certain occupations are more at risk than others, such as those who work as steelworkers, miners, or with textiles and automobiles.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a life-threatening illness causing emphysema. In clinical settings, emphysema is assessed by patient history, lung function, radiographs, and more. However, these tools are not able to make a diagnosis of mild emphysema. AI radiography is the most effective tool to detect issues that might normally slip under the radar.

A study released in October outlines how AI could match professional radiologists to predict emphysema in patients.

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Owners Can Now Repair Imaging Devices

 

A final rule was recently granted by the federal government that allows medical imaging equipment owners to repair their machines without intervention from the maker. This new rule shatters a copyright barrier that was previously in place.

An exemption to the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) allows servicers to work around medical device security controls for the purpose of accessing software required to maintain or restore the system. The Copyright Office Registrar recommended the Library of Congress move forward with the change.

The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance represents the original imaging equipment manufacturers and released a statement saying the recommendation to move forward will lead to “unnecessary safety and security risks” for patients.

In a statement, President and CEO of Avante Health Solutions said, “This is significant to healthcare systems looking for affordable options to maintain and repair expensive medical equipment and associated devices. Avante is thrilled, as this ruling builds on the FDA’s recognition of the merits and safety of the services provided by independent service organizations.”

The Medical Imaging & Technology Alliance (MITA) outlined that manufacturers are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and independent technicians are not held to the same standards as they have a lower amount of scrutiny associated with their position.

Moreover, the alliance also voiced concern over whether manufacturers’ intellectual property would be exposed to the public, which would be detrimental to the industry.

“MITA Executive Director Patrick Hope said, “If this recommendation is ultimately accepted and implemented, it would amount to a license for unregulated third-party servicers to hack sensitive technology, creating grievous cybersecurity and patient safety risks. We intend to continue to advocate against this misguided approach.”

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

GE Announces New CT System

 

Revolution Ascend, GE Healthcare’s newest workflow, has officially been released. The technology extends clinicians a combination of Artificial Intelligence (AI) meant to automate and simplify otherwise time-consuming tasks. The goal is to deliver more individualized care to patients by freeing up physicians’ time.

The new, wider system can accommodate higher Body Mass Index (BMI) or trauma patients who would otherwise be too challenging to manipulate in a small gantry. 

Timothy P. Szczykutowicz, Ph. D., director of clinical operations and the CT Protocol Project at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, said, “The most time-consuming part of the CT experience isn’t the scan itself, but the steps that fall outside the scan. Within a typical 10 – 30 minute CT exam, the scan itself only takes a few minutes, and the remainder of the time is dedicated to patient prep – including positioning the patient and identifying the correct protocols and settings, plus image reconstruction and report time. Historically, these have been manual processes, putting them at risk of human error; however, AI offers new opportunities to automate workflows and expedite exams with the same or better results.”

The first step in the Revolution Ascend workflow is for the technologist to use an attached bar code reader to scan the patient’s chart. Once scanned, the patient’s information is automatically displayed on-screen, with applicable protocols recommended. Then, the CT technician initiates Auto Positioning, which creates a 3D model of the patient’s body using real-time depth-sensing technology. Auto Positioning also establishes the proper table elevation and cradle movements to ensure the center is in range with the bore’s isocenter. The new Clarity Operator Environment then suggests optimal scan range settings, dosage, and image quality personalized to each person.

Gladys Farias, Imaging Services Manager at Baptist Health in Miami, Florida, said, “Having Revolution Ascend is like having an extra set of hands – which are much needed in today’s healthcare environment. Not only do the system’s intelligent solutions help us expedite exams, but they also enable us to deliver a more comfortable and personalized experience for each patient. Technologists love it for its simplicity. Clinicians love it for its results. And patients love it for its fast exams and comfort.”

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Ultrasound Gel Recalled by FDA

 

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has recalled eight lots of Eco-Med Pharmaceuticals ultrasound gel, with contamination being the culprit. Confirmed bacterial infections affected 15 patients who were in contact with the Eco-Gel 200 ultrasound gel. Unconfirmed cases are also suspected.

Eco-Gel instructed customers to immediately halt the use of the gel and return it to the manufacturer if possible.

FDA officials said, “Eco-Med has initiated this recall and quarantine due to bacterial contamination in the affected loss of ultrasound gel with Burkholderia cepacia complex (Bxx). The source(s) of the bacterial contamination is currently unknown. Eco-med is conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine the root cause of this contamination and take all necessary corrective action.”

Patients who encountered the gel can be asymptomatic or develop severe toxicity, such as bloodstream infection, which can result in sepsis or death.

Eco-Med lot numbers included in the recall:

-          Lot number B029 – distribution: March 26, 2021

-          Lot number B030 – distribution: March 30, 2021

-          Lot number B031 – distribution: April 5, 2021

-          Lot number B032 – distribution: April 7, 2021

-          Lot number B040 – distribution: April 26, 2021

-          Lot number B041 – distribution April 26, 2021

-          Lot number B048 – distribution: May 7, 2021

-          Lot number B055 – distribution: May 26, 2021

These brand names were also tainted and are recalled:

-          Chattanooga Conductor USA – DJO Global

-          DJO Conductor – DJO Global

-          Liquasonic – Athena Medical Products

-          MediChoice Ultrasound Gel – Owens & Minor

-          MediChoice Ultrasound Gel – Mac Medical Supply Co.

-          Medline – Medline Industries

-          NDC Eco-Gel 200 Ultrasound Gel – NDC

-          Omni – Accelerated Care Plus Leasing

 

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Molecular Imaging to Expand to $6.18 Billion by 2026

 

For 2019, the global molecular imaging space was evaluated at $4.199 billion, growing at a CAGR of 5.68 percent, expanding to $6.18 billion by 2026.

X-rays, computed tomography (CT), and ultrasound diagnostic imaging procedures offer photos of physical structure. Molecular imaging gives physicians a window into the body’s function, with an ability to measure it chemically and biologically.

Other imaging technologies are unable to provide information that is attainable with molecular imaging. Biopsies or surgeries could be required to identify disease with other diagnostic tests.

Molecular imaging is a powerful tool for physicians. It is helpful to achieve the following:

-          Manage patient care

-          Determine disease severity

-          Select proper therapy

-          Analyze drug response

-          Assess and adapt treatment

-          Respond to changes in health

-          Evaluate disease progression

-          Identify disease resurgence

-          Manage ongoing care

The demand in molecular systems is driven by:

-          Technological advancements

-          Rising prevalence of disorders

-          Large aging population

-          Government support

-          Hybrid modality treatments

 

North America leads the worldwide molecular imaging market, while the Asian Pacific is the speediest in terms of expansion due to rising healthcare spending.

 

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Use of Radiation Consultation Service (RCS) Has Risen During the Pandemic

 

During the coronavirus pandemic, most radiology practices shuttered or scaled back drastically. One service that stood out from the rest pivoted and focused on Radiology Consultation Service (RCS) to provide consultation and ensure permanence of care.

A recent study published in Clinical Imaging followed investigators from Weill Cornell Medical College at New York Presbyterian Hospital, who clarified how their RCS (launched in 2013) expanded through COVID-19.

Melissa Reichman, M.D., a women’s imaging specialist and assistant professor of radiology at Weill Cornell, led the team. Reichman said, “At a time when radiology experienced an unprecedented decrease in imaging studies during the initial peak of the COVID-19 crisis, the RCS at our institution, in contrast, showed a notable increase in services provided. Our experience demonstrates the value of an organized radiology consultation service and may serve as an example for other institutions to adopt a similar program, as patient-centered care is at the forefront of radiology.”

The number of consultations, as well as screening mammograms and ultrasounds, were compared from January 1, 2020, through July 31, 2020, to the same 2019 timeframe. Two more periods, March 1, 2020, through June 30, 2020, were compared to the same dates from the previous year.

Their findings identified many consultations ranging from 1,398 in 2019 to 1,623 in 2020, a 16 percent increase. Also, consultations were higher from March through June 2020 (679) versus 2019 (538), a 16.9 percent increase.

Results from the study indicate that RCS presents a route for radiologists to be at the forefront of the healthcare process, integrating with patients and providers regarding decisions. To determine the best plan possible for patients, all parties worked together as a team.

The report stated, “Physicians have become more conscientious about their imaging recommendations, relying on the radiologists’ clinical judgment of what is essential and minimizing unnecessary potential viral exposure. As a result, we believe that the radiology consultation service has enabled a more appropriate use of imaging.”

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Managing Health through Technology

 

The healthcare industry was forced to quickly lean more into technological thanks to the pandemic. Patient images have not changed, but modifications have made it possible to use consumer technology in new, unexpected ways. What are some of the novel workflow efficiencies and patient experiences that have cropped up since 2020? Here are some examples: 

Smartphones and Tablets

Providers can access images and reports virtually anywhere, thanks to smartphones or tablets. When it comes to commonplace technology, phones are ubiquitous. By using secure apps to access reports and images from anywhere, data breaches are not an issue since no information is stored on the device. Previously, physicians needed to sign in each time they wanted to check an imaging report. Now, these newer advancements allow the provider to sign in automatically. Text messages and alerts can be set up to notify the physician when reports are complete. With minimal effort, physicians can now transfer information to each other accordingly, seeing data in real-time.

QR Codes

First developed in 1994, these codes have made a comeback during the pandemic. Whether it’s for a restaurant menu, contactless payment, or essential information sharing, these scannable codes are seemingly everywhere. Now, physicians can use these codes to send reports to patients and providers instead of burning images to a Compact Disc (CD) or printout. QR codes allow for a more effective, efficient workflow. Patients can get images with ease, on their device of choice, without remembering usernames or passwords.

Web-based Viewer

Cloud technology allows web-based viewers to take a patient-focused methodology. It not only makes the Electronic Health Record (EHR) more effective, but it also consolidates information from different parts and gives a more holistic view of the patient’s record. Patients can also enjoy a web-based universal viewer to track their entire health story on a mobile device.

Old technology can be used in new ways. Today, imaging groups are using consumer-based technology to facilitate physician-patient relationships. COVID-19 accelerated the process; the innovations of the future might be the technology of today.

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

 

Five Tips for Radiology Fundraising

 

A growing number of academic institutions are relying on the generosity of others to implement otherwise too-expensive ideas or changes. Fundraising is an imperative aspect of many organizations, including the radiology field. Having a basic knowledge of fundraising is essential to your success.

President of Johns Hopkins University from 1996 to 2009 and radiologist William Brody, M.D., Ph.D., laid out some guidelines for successful fundraising in the April edition of the Journal of the American College of Radiology.

“Whether you are a newly-appointed assistant professor of radiology, a dean of the medical school, CEO of a health system, or a university president, knowing how to raise funds is critical to your success and the success of the department or organization you represent. Fundamentally, fundraising is selling. I am not talking about your grandfather’s used car salesman. Selling is a universal skill that can be learned,” Brody said.

Relationships: Fundraising is also called friend-raising for a reason. To develop long-term relationships, make meaningful connections with donors who will support your departments or institution for the long haul. It is perfectly acceptable to return to donors who have contributed in the past, as they are most likely to donate again.  

Trust the process: Whether you seek a research grant, new building, or an endowed professorship, there are four key steps to achieve success: attention, interest, desire, and finalizing. Ensure you are following the process to attract donors.

Invest wisely: Use your own money to contribute to staff who can help cultivate donors, conduct background research, investigate prospects, develop brochures and other media, demonstrate, advertise, etc.

Speak out: When donors are looking to donate to a cause, radiology isn’t always top of mind. The lack of face-to-face contact radiologists have with patients makes it essential to be proactive. Don’t be intimidated – fundraising isn’t necessarily effortless. It is critical for your career, so try to learn the best you can.

Embrace technology: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an integral part of radiology. Many tech donors are drawn to the AI sector, so be sure to entice prospects from a wide range of fields, including other areas of medicine, technology leaders, venture capitalists, and even patients with relevant interests.

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Four Ways Radiology Can Reduce Its Climate Change Impact

 

Typically, climate change (a.k.a. global warming) is associated with planes, trains, and automobiles using fossil fuels, hazy skies, and radioactive plants pushing clouds into the atmosphere. However, the radiologic industry plays a more significant role than you might imagine, and industry leaders say the time to reduce that impact is now.

Published in the Journal of the American College of Radiology, a team of industry experts, including Geraldine McGinty, M.D., MBA, president of the American College of Radiology (ACR), issued a call-to-action statement.

“Radiology is well-positioned to spearhead climate change action in our practices and the healthcare system at large. Addressing climate change provides an opportunity to improve healthcare delivery and increase value of care using a different problem-solving approach,” said the team.

The Yale University School of Medicine released data that shows 10 percent of the nation’s carbon emissions (and nine percent of harmful non-greenhouse air pollutants) originate from the United States healthcare system.

Radiology is a significant contributor to each hospital’s energy use. In Switzerland, as the team pointed out, their three CT and four MRI scanners accounted for four percent of the hospital’s overall energy use. Being more environmentally conscious isn’t specific to the industry; it’s a patent priority as well. In the United Kingdom, a survey conducted showed that 92 percent of patients also consider sustainable healthcare operations vital.

Substantial energy use: Radiology utilizes an enormous amount of energy. In the span of a year, cumulative consumption from one CT scanner can equate to five four-person households. A single MRI uses nearly as much as 26 four-person residences. If at all possible, opt for ultrasound instead. Not only is it cheaper, but it also uses less radiation and has a lower environmental impact. Moreover, using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to shorten MRI protocols can lower energy use. To further reduce the carbon footprint, implementing life cycle analyses can quantify the environmental impact of various modalities.

Standby mode: To reduce the amount of energy used by the imaging machines, use standby mode. Even when idle, they are consuming significant amounts of energy, according to the team. Cooling machines take an equal amount of energy to operate. The team recommends a 24-hour operating cycle, as well as exploring energy-efficient HVAC systems and imaging technique improvements.

Power down: Though leaving the PACS off overnight might be more convenient and efficient for workload management, the team suggests turning the machine off overnight. A hospital in Iceland left its systems on overnight and accumulated 25,040 kilowatts of energy, producing 17.7 metric tons of carbon dioxide. These levels are equivalent to the emissions produced by four passenger cars annually. To decrease costs and improve energy efficiency, powering down can be an easy way to accomplish these goals. Additionally, the team suggested reducing excess packaging in your procedures to drive down the environmental costs in production and disposal.

Opt for clean energy: The team said now is the time to shift from fossil fuels and lean toward renewable energy. As prices are dropping, several facilities are already making progress. For example, Kaiser Permanente has achieved carbon-neutrality, and Gundersen Health System is already net carbon positive.

To make these changes a reality, radiologists need to become activists, according to the team. Lobby local ACR chapters to join national efforts or reach out to specialty societies to further push environmentally sustainable radiology. Publishing carbon footprints can help other medical departments understand the environmental dangers associated with over-utilization.

Radiologists are urged to join the Medical Society Consortium on Climate Health, which includes 29 national medical societies, as suggested by the team.

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RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.

Disney and Philips Partner to Improve MRI Exams for Children

 

For the first time in its history, Disney will collaborate as part of a clinical research project. Children who undergo MRI might soon experience custom-made animation, including specially made Disney stories within Philips Ambient Experience. This solution integrates architecture and design to enable technologies such as dynamic lighting, video projections, and sound to create a relaxing atmosphere.

Six hospitals across Europe have been selected to begin trials this summer; the results will be compiled and released in the fall or winter. Philips will test its Ambient Experience program using animated stories showcasing some of Disney’s most beloved characters. Disney animators will create six pieces of original, stylized Disney animation for use in hospitals. The idea is aimed at reducing fear and anxiety often felt by children who undergo MRI.

Well-known characters such as Mickey Mouse, Ariel, and those from Marvel’s Avengers, Star Wars, and others will appear in a diagnostic setting for the first time. The results from the six leading hospitals in Europe will be analyzed to alleviate children’s anxiety, create bonds, and improve staff’s ability to carry out their MRI-related tasks.

MRI scans and other medical exams can be challenging for some adults, and especially for children who are anxious, claustrophobic, or naturally wiggly. The Philips Ambient Experience currently has 2,000 installations worldwide. Its goal is to mitigate those difficulties by creating an engaging, multi-sensory imaging environment that is welcoming and relaxing for children and adults alike.

Patients can select a theme of their choice, personalizing the room’s lighting, video, and sound. Ambient Experience Patient In-bore Connect supports feelings of empowerment and control, as it lets patients relax, follow directions, and minimize motion once they are within the MRI. For younger pediatric patients, this is important to explain scan duration, helping them remain still, and reduces the need for repeat scans.

This new collaboration unifies Philips’ vast clinical knowledge and expertise with Disney’s masterful, engaging storytelling. A sense of familiarity, control, and comfort will surely result from the joint effort.

Jan Koeppen, President, The Walt Disney Company, EMEA, said, “At Disney, we look forward to complementing Philips’ MRI experience with our stories and characters. We are excited to see the results of the clinical research and to quantify the impact our characters can have in this environment.”

Through Aladdin and Jasmine on a magical carpet ride or Spiderman carefully swinging through skyscrapers, each story is customized and designed to support children in their MRI experience.

RadParts is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerator and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost parts and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 or visit us on the web: https://www.radparts.com.

 

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.