Viewing devices make mammography easier on the eyes

Two 5-megapixel liquid crystal monitors were released today at the RSNA meeting. The Lumimed monitors, shown by Broadwest as prototypes at the 2004 meeting, can be set to display images of individual breasts, as well as mediolateral and craniocaudal views. The monitors are ready for production, pending approval by the FDA.

The two new devices have higher luminance than standard mammography viewing stations and a maximized viewing surface area, according to Jack Donovan, president of Broadwest.

Additionally, an ergonomic table for positioning the monitors will be available commercially in the first quarter of 2006. The table can be lowered, raised, and tilted so radiologists can adjust viewing whether they are in a seated or standing position. The table also incorporates features intended to reduce cabling tangles.

"The table has many accessories to minimize cabling and make mammography viewing comfortable for radiologists," Donovan said.

The 5-megapixel monitor pair and the ergonomic table will be sold separately.