New imaging applications boom

Emerging imaging techniques, such as coronary artery calcium scoring, CT-based cardiac angiography, and contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance and ultrasound, are driving the expanded use of cardiovascular in vivo diagnostics. According to a study released by Kalorama Information, the next five years will see a 70% increase in the use of such in vivo cardiac testing. Driven by the recognition of the costs associated with cardiovascular disease in terms of mortality and utilization, interest in early detection of the disease process is growing, said the study, entitled “Trends in the Early Diagnosis of Cardiovascular Disease: Worldwide Market Opportunities.” Electron-beam tomography, MR, CT, ultrasound, stress echo, and remote heart rate monitors are expected to displace more expensive, invasive procedures such as the nuclear stress tests, x-ray angiography, and nuclear perfusion tests.