Breaking Ground: 4D Mammography Trials Start at Baptist Health Hardin

 

Baptist Health Hardin in Elizabethtown, Kentucky has become the first hospital in the world to begin in-human trials of 4D Mammography technology, marking a potential breakthrough in the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer.

The new imaging system, developed by Calidar Inc.—a Duke University start-up specializing in clinical X-ray diffraction—moves beyond the limitations of traditional mammography. Instead of relying solely on images of breast tissue, 4D Mammography uses X-ray diffraction to analyze the molecular “fingerprints” of tissue, offering a clearer and less invasive path to identifying breast cancer.

“This groundbreaking research has the potential to change the course of treatment for countless people,” said Bert Jones, Director of Medical Imaging at Baptist Health Hardin. “Being part of this pivotal moment in medical innovation represents more than just scientific progress — it’s a step forward in improving the lives of women everywhere.”

The clinical trial at Baptist Health Hardin, launched on August 19, will include about 60 patients. Researchers will evaluate both the efficiency and accuracy of the technology before it can move toward wider approval and eventual commercial use.

Dr. Stefan Stryker, CEO of Calidar, emphasized the significance of applying X-ray diffraction to medicine:

“X-ray diffraction has unlocked some of the most iconic achievements in science — from the structure of DNA to discoveries on Mars. Now, we are bringing that power into the clinic to look inside the human body in a completely new way.”

While not yet FDA-approved, the promise of 4D Mammography could redefine how clinicians detect breast cancer—potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures, minimizing delays in diagnosis, and creating a new standard in breast cancer screenings worldwide.

Learn more about this study on the Calidar website.

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RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 to learn more.

 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Reducing CT Scanner Costs: How Maintenance and Tube Choices Matter

 

Maintaining and replacing CT scanner tubes is a critical factor in managing the total cost of ownership (TCO) for healthcare facilities. At RadParts, we help healthcare providers navigate these decisions, offering OEM replacement parts and expert guidance to maximize equipment life while minimizing costs.

Understanding Total Cost of Ownership

Purchasing a CT system is just the start. Proper maintenance and smart tube replacement choices can extend a scanner’s life for 20 years or more. While OEM parts are reliable, they often come with higher costs. Alternative options—including third-party or pre-owned tubes—can reduce long-term expenses without compromising performance.

 

Service Options and Healthcare Technology Management (HTM)

Effective HTM ensures your CT equipment runs safely and efficiently. Facilities can manage HTM in-house or rely on:

 

• Independent Service Organizations (ISOs)
• OEM service divisions
• Multi-Vendor Service (MVS) providers

 

ISOs and MVSs often deliver the best balance of cost savings and risk mitigation, offering flexible, competitive solutions for maintenance and repairs.

Choosing Replacement CT Tubes

Replacement CT tubes from manufacturers like Varex, Chronos, and Dunlee match OEM specifications and performance, providing a cost-effective alternative. Pre-owned tubes can further reduce costs, especially for older systems, though availability may be limited for newer models.

 

CT Tube Lifespan Metrics

CT tubes are subject to wear over time. Understanding lifespan metrics helps plan replacements efficiently:

 

• mAs (milliamp seconds) – Total system usage over time (used by GE).
• Scan Seconds – Total scanning time regardless of protocol (used by Toshiba/Canon, Siemens, Philips).
• Total Patient Exams – Counts exams performed to indicate tube usage (used by Siemens).

 

Each metric varies by manufacturer, and aligning your tube choices with these measures can help optimize TCO.

Bearings and Performance

CT tubes use different bearing technologies that affect durability and maintenance:

 

• Ball Bearings – Found in older systems; lower cost but shorter lifespan and more maintenance.
• Liquid Metal Bearings (LMB) – Quieter, longer-lasting, and common in high-end systems; higher initial cost but reduced maintenance needs.

 

Reducing Costs Without Compromising Quality

Healthcare providers can manage TCO by:

 

• Evaluating tube types and bearing technology
• Considering alternative or pre-owned tubes
• Choosing cost-effective service options from ISOs or MVSs

 

By balancing these factors, facilities can extend CT scanner life, reduce maintenance costs, and ensure reliable performance for patients.

For expert guidance and OEM replacement solutions, contact RadParts today to explore cost-effective options for your CT equipment.

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RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 to learn more.

 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Linear Accelerators in 2025: Key Considerations for Medical Facilities

 

In 2025, the landscape of radiation therapy technology is rapidly evolving, with new linear accelerators (linacs) entering the market alongside advancements by established leaders. Despite these innovations, the Varian TrueBeam continues to dominate, setting the standard in radiation oncology. Competition in the market has seen both consolidation and the emergence of new entries, with manufacturers offering alternative platforms at various price points.

As the market continues to grow, driven by technological advancements and increased access to treatment, facilities must carefully assess both new and pre-owned options to meet evolving clinical demands.

When considering a new linac, additional factors such as reimbursement opportunities should be considered. For instance, systems like the Reflexion X1 with SCINTIX therapy offer new reimbursement codes utilizing PET technology, which could potentially offset higher costs. Similarly, MR/Linacs leverage greater reimbursements despite their higher initial expenses.

Varian's TrueBeam remains the gold standard, featuring enhancements in its latest Version 4.1, such as Gated CBCT, RapidArc Dynamic, and HyperSight Imaging, which enhance treatment precision and efficiency. Meanwhile, Varian's Halcyon system streamlines radiation therapy with simplified setup and training, making it ideal for efficient, high-quality treatments.

Varian's Ethos system takes adaptive therapy a step further, with AI-driven planning for real-time adjustments that enhance personalization and treatment accuracy.

Elekta's Versa HD platform continues to be a strong alternative, offering high-dose-rate beam delivery and advanced motion management.

New entrants, such as Linatech VenusX, Panacea Siddharth II, Akesis Gemini360RT, and United Imaging's uRT linac from China, introduce modern capabilities and imaging advancements, expanding competitive choices.

MRI- and PET-guided systems are revolutionizing adaptive therapy, providing real-time tumor tracking and precise targeting. MRI-guided linacs, like Elekta Unity and MagnetTx Aurora RT, offer high-resolution imaging, while PET-guided systems like RefleXion X1 adjust radiation delivery based on real-time tumor emissions, which is particularly beneficial for metastatic diseases.

Looking ahead, the global medical linear accelerator market is projected to grow significantly, driven by technological advancements and increasing cancer incidences. Meeting future demand requires substantial investment in radiotherapy infrastructure, highlighting the role of both new and refurbished linacs in bridging treatment gaps.

Legacy systems and pre-owned linacs, like the Varian Clinac iX and Elekta Synergy, offer reliable performance and cost savings, making them viable options for expanding treatment capacity.

Ultimately, selecting the right linac involves evaluating clinical capabilities, patient volume, infrastructure needs, and long-term costs. Whether considering new systems, pre-owned options, or service availability, informed decision-making ensures optimal patient care and operational efficiency in radiation oncology.

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RadParts, a TTG Imaging Solutions Company, is the world’s largest independent distributor of OEM replacement parts. We specialize in low-cost parts for repairing linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Our mission is to provide high-quality, user-friendly, low-cost components and support for linear accelerators and radiation equipment. Contact RadParts at 877-704-3838 to learn more.

 

Written by the Digital Marketing Team at Creative Programs & Systems: https://www.cpsmi.com/.