Earlier this decade, when NightHawk Radiology Services and Virtual Radiologic became publicly traded corporations, it looked like the die had been cast for the future of radiology. Venture capitalists were prowling the RSNA exhibit floor looking for the next hot teleradiology company to fund and take public. There was widespread talk that the next step would be final day reads rendered from large and remote teleradiology operations.

Although MRI examinations in patients with retained temporary epicardial leads, which consist of electrically conductive material, could theoretically lead to cardiac excitation or thermal injury, such leads are relatively short in length, usually do not form large loops, and are generally not believed to pose a significant risk during MRI procedures.

Historically, the federal government has taken the lead in pursuing fraud claims against healthcare providers. Section 6031 of the recently enacted Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (DRA), which provides a financial incentive for states to enact their own false claims legislation, is changing that.

Every day, I’m getting better at making tough decisions. I know this because searching the Internet stimulates the parts of my brain that control decision making and complex reasoning.

Nothing wreaks havoc on a CT schedule like a patient from intensive care accompanied by monitors and attended by several nurses. A simple head scan can take 45 minutes to an hour.

This just in: The Punahou prep school of Honolulu grooms not only politicians like Barack Obama or entrepreneurs like AOL cofounder Steve Case. It may well be nurturing the future of radiology.