IT specialist ScImage debuted a multidepartment PACS, Version 3.0 PicomEnterprise, at the 2006 RSNA meeting. The PACS uses a single database, which allows exams to be scheduled, tracked, reported, archived, and distributed across radiology, cardiology, nuclear medicine, and orthopedics using one Web-based log-on.

IT developer Meta Fusion introduced at the RSNA meeting a value-priced RIS/PACS that can be tailored to imaging centers and small hospitals. The Helium system will ship preconfigured to customers’ specifications, thereby eliminating the need for IT support. Setup requires only that the site attach to the network and add a PC-based viewing station with minimal configuration. The scalable system is designed to grow with the installation. Remote 24/7 monitoring and upgrades that download automatically over the Internet are included.

The assumption that CT colonography is the logical choice for pairing with optical colonoscopy to stage colorectal cancer took a hit at the RSNA meeting today. A prospective study from Europe shows that whole-body FDG-PET/CT is significantly more accurate than CT colonography for staging colorectal tumors.

Philips Medical Systems has taken the concept of PACS to a 3D plane. The Dutch company featured its iSite PACS at the RSNA meeting as common ground for bringing together its digital imaging technologies.

Powerful corporations and Congress make big headlines -- for all the wrong reasons. Scandals plaguing the private and public sectors, however, can provide a wakeup call for radiologists to renew their commitment to ethical behavior, according to RSNA president Dr. Robert R. Hattery.

Continued concerns over breast MRI’s clinical cost-effectiveness can be fully addressed only if radiologists can reach a consensus on the appropriate indications and development of standard protocols, according to New York-based researchers.

New analyses of data from the Digital Mammographic Imaging Screening Trial show that digital mammography is superior only for pre- and perimenopausal women with dense breasts. Screen-film mammography may actually have an edge in older women with fatty breasts, according to a study presented at the RSNA meeting on Sunday.

All too soon, hordes of radiology aficionados will descend upon Chicago for the RSNA meeting. While we will cover the event via our annual Webcast, I'd like to mention some new features of the meeting that parallel evolving trends and our coverage.

Image quality and improved ease of use characterize latest technologies appearing on RSNA exhibit floor

Solutions include ways to store and distribute data while offering seamless integration with workflow tools

From time-of-flight to fusion imaging, innovations promise faster scanning of obese patients

Prototype systems offer a glimpse of tomorrow's CT marketplace

Developments demonstrate consolidation of field strengths at modality's high end

Fuji prepares major marketing blitz for RSNA meeting as competing vendors strategize about ways to join the fray

Vendors propose methods to boost quality of postprocessing, reducing stress of keeping up

Vendors prepare new technologies that blow the dust off old but updated ideas at RSNA conference

Careful technique and small focal spot can alleviate common problems such as windmill artifact

Given its history, the point of diminishing returns in innovation may be years away for CT technology and applications

Imagers face responsibility for ensuring appropriate use and safety of patients

Routine imaging of women who have suspected appendicitis could avoid need for costly procedure