May 8, 2008
Nevada Imaging Centers Installs the First Toshiba Aquilion ONE™ Dynamic Volume CT System in the Western United States
As a testament to the growing demand to improve patient care while reducing healthcare costs, Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. has installed the first Aquilion ONE™ dynamic volume CT system in the Western U.S. at Nevada Imaging Centers in Las Vegas. "As the only dynamic volume CT system in the world, the Aquilion ONE's ability to image an entire organ and show function means faster, more accurate diagnosis, better patient outcomes and ultimately lower healthcare costs," explained Dr. William W. Orrison, chief of Neuroradiology, Nevada Imaging Centers. (Read more...)

May 8, 2008
Volcano Corp Announces First Human Use of the Volcano Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Imaging Catheter
Volcano Corporation (Nasdaq: VOLC) announced today the first human procedure using the Volcano OCT Imaging catheter. The procedure was performed by Dr. Patrick Serruys at the Thoraxcenter, in Rotterdam, Netherlands. Volcano OCT will complement its existing line of IVUS imaging catheters and pressure guidewires used for coronary imaging and lesion assessment. (Read more...)

May 8, 2008
Nevada Imaging Centers Installs the First Toshiba Aquilion ONE™ Dynamic Volume CT System in the Western United States
As a testament to the growing demand to improve patient care while reducing healthcare costs, Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. has installed the first Aquilion ONE™ dynamic volume CT system in the Western U.S. at Nevada Imaging Centers in Las Vegas. "As the only dynamic volume CT system in the world, the Aquilion ONE's ability to image an entire organ and show function means faster, more accurate diagnosis, better patient outcomes and ultimately lower healthcare costs," explained Dr. William W. Orrison, chief of Neuroradiology, Nevada Imaging Centers. (Read more...)

May 7, 2008
Volcano Reports 24 Percent Increase in First Quarter Revenues; IVUS Disposable Revenues Increase 30 Percent
Volcano Corporation (Nasdaq: VOLC), a leading manufacturer and developer of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), functional measurement (FM) and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) products designed to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of coronary and peripheral vascular disease, today reported results for the first quarter of fiscal 2008. (Read more...)

May 5, 2008
Volcano Announces Participation in SATURN Clinical Trial Sponsored by AstraZeneca
SATURN is a 104-week, parallel-group, multicentre, double-blind, Phase IIIb intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) imaging study of approximately 1,300 patients at 170 centres This study by AstraZeneca is designed to measure the impact of CRESTOR™ (rosuvastatin) 40 mg and atorvastatin (Lipitor®) 80 mg on the progression of atherosclerosis in high risk patients. SATURN will compare the effects of these two statins on the ability to decrease progression or induce regression of atherosclerosis, the main cause of cardiovascular disease, following two years of treatment in patients with coronary artery disease. (Read more...)

April 29, 2008
Volcano Corporation Schedules First Quarter Conference Call, Webcast
Volcano Corporation (Nasdaq: VOLC), a leading manufacturer and developer of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), functional measurement(FM) and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) products designed to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of coronary and peripheral vascular disease, today announced that it will report its operating results for the first quarter of fiscal 2008 on Wednesday, May 7. (Read more...)

April 1, 2008
Toshiba Introduces Advanced Image Processing for Its Infinix Cardiac Systems
At this year's American College of Cardiology (ACC) annual meeting in Chicago, March 30-April 1, 2008 (Booth # 8001), Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. will be showcasing its Advanced Image Processing (AIP) technology for its Infinix™ X-ray product line. With AIP, physicians will be able to better visualize even the smallest interventional devices and provide better patient care to patients undergoing interventional procedures. (Read more...)

April 1, 2008
Toshiba Demonstrates Newest CT Software at ACC
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. is committed to new CT clinical applications that improve throughput and workflow, while further reducing contrast and radiation dose to patients. At this year's American College of Cardiology annual meeting in Chicago, March 30-April 1, 2008 (Booth # 8001), Toshiba will demonstrate new applications that embody this commitment -- ^SURECardio™ Prospective and Variable Helical Pitch (vHP), which was recently cleared by the FDA. (Read more...)

March 31, 2008
Volcano Corporation Announces North America Resale Agreement with Royal Philips Electronics
Volcano Corporation, leading manufacturer of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), announced today that it has entered into a non-exclusive, resale agreement covering North America with Royal Philips Electronics. Under this agreement, Philips will resell Volcano-branded s5i IVUS systems and accessories alongside of the Philips Allura Xper FD X-ray systems. (Read more...)

March 31, 2008
Toshiba Introduces Aplio™ Artida™ -- New Cardiovascular Ultrasound Product at ACC
With its comprehensive applications, the Artida meets the demands of the growing cardiac 4D market. With Artida's real-time, multi-planar reformatting capabilities, physicians can quantify global and regional LV function, including LV ejection fraction, volume and severity of regurgitation. Arbitrary views of the heart not available in 2D imaging are also obtained that can help with surgical planning. (Read more...)

March 30, 2008
Toshiba Launches Breakthrough CT System — the Aquilion ONE
For the first time, physicians can see not only a three-dimensional depiction of an organ, but also the organ's dynamic blood flow and function. Unlike any other CT system, Toshiba's Aquilion ONE can scan one organ — including the heart, brain and others — in one rotation because it covers up to 16 cm of anatomy using 320 ultra high resolution 0.5 mm detector elements. This reduces exam time, as well as radiation and contrast dose. With the Aquilion ONE, the organ or area is captured in a single rotation at one moment in time, eliminating the need to reconstruct slices from multiple points in time. (Read more...)

March 28, 2008
Volcano Announces U.S. and European Launch of Rotational IVUS and Integrated FFR
Volcano Corporation, a leading manufacturer and developer of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS), functional measurement (FM) and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) products designed to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of coronary and peripheral vascular disease, announced today the U.S. and European launch of the s5-Revo and s5-FFR (fractional flow reserve) options for the s5i integrated Imaging platform. (Read more...)

March 28, 2008
FDA Approves CT Software from Toshiba to Reduce Radiation Dose and Improve Patient Care and Workflow
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. has received FDA clearance for two new CT clinical applications that will improve throughput and enhance workflow, while further reducing contrast and radiation dosage. The applications, ^SURECardio™ Prospective and Variable Helical Pitch (vHP), are available for new Toshiba Aquilion™ 32- and 64-slice CT systems. (Read more...)

March 27, 2008
Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) Events at American College of Cardiology Annual Meeting
Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is scheduled to be part of 29 separate sessions at this weekend's annual meeting of cardiologists in Chicago. In addition, IVUS will be used by interventionalists who will be performing 14 live procedures, to be broadcast to the Convention Center at McCormick Place from Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, and other medical centers in California, London, Germany, Japan and Australia. (Read more...)

March 24, 2008
Toshiba Installs Milestone 500th Vantage 1.5T MR System at Jefferson Regional Medical Center
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc., an industry leader in magnetic resonance (MR) technology, reached a significant achievement in installing its 500th VantageTM 1.5T MR system at Jefferson Regional Medical Center (JRMC) in Pine Bluff, Ark. Citing Vantage image quality, patient comfort and Toshiba's gadolinium contrast-free techniques, JRMC will use the Vantage system for a variety of diagnostic procedures including orthopedic, head and abdomen imaging. (Read more...)

March 15, 2008
Medicare Reverses Decision to Limit Coverage of Cardiac CT Heart Scans (updated)
To the relief of many in the cardiology and radiology community, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) announced this week that it will not change current coverage for Computed Tomographic Angiography (CTA). (Read more...)

March 12, 2008
Volcano Corporation Presentation at Cowen Healthcare Conference to be Webcast
Volcano Corporation (Nasdaq: VOLC), a leading provider of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and functional measurement (FM) products designed to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of coronary and peripheral vascular disease, will be participating in the Cowen and Company 28th Annual Health Care Conference on Monday, March 17. The presentation by president and CEO, Scott Huennekens, will begin at 3:15 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time (12:15 Pacific Daylight Time). (Read more...)

March 6, 2008
Toshiba MR, CT and Ultrasound Named Best in KLAS in 2007
KLAS recently named Toshiba's AquilionTM 64, XarioTM and Vantage 1.5T MR "Best in KLAS" in its Top 20 Year-End Report for 2007. This recognition for leadership in working with customers to maintain satisfaction, gives Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. the top ratings in the CT, MR and ultrasound categories. (Read more...)

March 5, 2008
Heart Doctors Await Medicare's Decision on Reimbursement for Cardiac CT Scans
Next week the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is scheduled to announce a decision on coverage for Computed Tomographic Angiography, commonly called Cardiac CT or CT Angiography (CTA). This memo, if enacted, would represent a wholesale cut back in the utilization of coronary CT nationwide -- including its use in emergency situations. (Read more...)

February 26, 2008
Toshiba Medical Names Girish T. Hagan as Vice President of Marketing
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. announced today that Girish T. Hagan has been named vice president of Marketing. Hagan will head Toshiba's business units including CT, MR, Ultrasound, X-ray and X-ray Vascular, as well as handle strategic marketing for Toshiba and its products in the medical imaging industry. The company adds that Hagan's expertise will build on Toshiba's strength in customer loyalty and technology innovation. (Read more...)

February 12, 2008
Volcano Reports 35% Increase in Quarterly Revenues; IVUS Disposable Revenues Increase 46%
"This growth in our IVUS business occurred despite a sluggish global PCI market. We believe the ease of use and integration provided by our s5 family of consoles, along with a growing volume of data demonstrating the value of IVUS in stenting procedures, is driving our increased market presence in the IVUS arena," he added. "We are encouraged by what appear to be recent favorable trends in stenting procedures and believe this will further the growth of our IVUS offerings," he continued. (Read more...)

February 7, 2008
Volcano Announces FDA 510(k) Clearance of Revolution Rotational Catheter and FFR for the s5i Integrated IVUS Console
These two new product offerings now enable rotational IVUS and FFR to operate on the same integrated Volcano s5 Imaging System as Volcano's previous line of phased array IVUS catheters and functionality. For the first time, physicians can choose among three powerful diagnostic tools -- all on the same integrated IVUS platform. (Read more...)

January 28, 2008
FDA Approves Toshiba Medical's Vantage Titan MR System
With this clearance, Toshiba is on schedule to make the system commercially available in the first quarter of 2008. The open-bore of the Vantage Titan is 18 percent larger than other 1.5T systems on the market, featuring a large 71-centimeter patient aperture. (Read more...)

January 13, 2008
An Open Letter to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)
We at Angioplasty.Org urge CMS to extend the comment period and to consider the complications inherent in standard invasive angiography before deciding to restrict coverage for CT Angiography (CTA). Recent studies of multislice CTA have shown extremely high negative predictability, equal to, if not better than, standard catheter-based invasive angiography. Considering that most data show at least one-third of invasive angiograms are negative for significant coronary artery disease (CAD), CTA presents several advantages for patients. (Read more...)

December 10, 2007
Volcano Announces Agreement to Acquire CardioSpectra
Volcano Corporatio, a provider of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and functional measurement (FM) products designed to enhance the diagnosis and treatment of vascular and structural heart disease, said today that it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire CardioSpectra, Inc., a privately-held company developing innovative Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) technology. CardioSpectra's unique OCT imaging system is expected to complement Volcano's existing product offerings and will further enhance Volcano's position as an imaging technology leader in the field of interventional medicine. (Read more...)

November 26, 2007
Toshiba Launches Breakthrough CT System: The AquilionONE
For the first time, physicians can see not only a three-dimensional depiction of an organ, but also the organ’s dynamic blood flow and function. Unlike any other CT system, the AquilionONE can scan one organ -- including heart, brain and others -- in one rotation because it covers up to 16 cm of anatomy using 320 ultra high resolution 0.5mm detector elements. This reduces exam time, as well as radiation and contrast dose, and dramatically increases diagnostic confidence. (Read more...)

November 15, 2007
Toshiba Medical Announces 4th Generation Gadolinium Contrast-Free Technique: Time and Space Angiography (TSA)
Adding to the robust offering of contrast-free techniques from Toshiba Medical, TSA creates images that show dynamic blood flow without using contrast agents, such as gadolinium. As the first medical imaging company to introduce advanced contrast-free MRA techniques, Toshiba is further expanding the capabilities and safety of MRA imaging. (Read more...)

November 8, 2007
Cordis Europe Partnering With Volcano Europe to Provide Access to Intravascular Imaging (IVUS) for Use in Drug-Eluting Stent Procedures
One of the major drug-eluting stent makers seems to agree with the idea that intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) guidance is critical for the proper placement of their devices. This move is a significant one for Volcano, which has long been trying to educate the interventional cardiology community about IVUS. (Read more...)

November 6, 2007
Toshiba Medical Announces Study on Use of 64-Slice CT Angiography in the Early Diagnosis and Treatment of Coronary Artery Disease in Diabetics
More than 1,000 patients from Utah, women older than 55 years old and men older than 50 years old, will be enrolled in the faCTor64 study using Intermountain Healthcare's diabetes registry of 30,000 patients, who have already received best-practice diabetic care. Intermountain, known for its quality initiatives, has one of the largest diabetic databases in the country. (Read more...)

November 6, 2007
The Super X-Ray
(The Editor's Blog)
A few comments on the mainstream media coverage of the CorE 64 study from Johns Hopkins. (Read more...)

November 5, 2007
64-Slice CT Heart Scan Gets High Marks As Test for Blocked Arteries
A study by an international team of cardiac imaging specialists, led by researchers at Johns Hopkins, concludes that sophisticated computed tomography (CT) scans of the heart and its surrounding arteries are almost as reliable and accurate as more invasive procedures to check for blockages. (Read more...)

November 1, 2007
CVCTA Education to Offer Live Case Training for Level I Participants
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. today announced that its partner, CVCTA Education, will provide access to live case training for ACCF/AHA Level 1 cardiac competency requirements. Typically, live cases are only shown during level II training. CVCTA will use Toshiba's Aquilion™ 64-slice CT to provide physicians with this advanced training. (Read more...)

October 23, 2007
Toshiba Announces First U.S. Install of Infinix CF-i/SP at Arlington Memorial Hospital
Robert Micer, director of Toshiba's X-Ray Vascular Business Unit states, "Arlington Memorial’s mission to improve the health of the communities they serve aligns with Toshiba’s goal of advancing diagnostic imaging and improving overall patient care and comfort. We look forward to working with the hospital to build upon its cardiac program for patients." (Read more...)

October 22, 2007
Toshiba Introduces New Infinix VF-i/SP Vascular X-Ray System
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. today announced the introduction of its Infinix(tm) VF-i/SP X-ray system, a universal cardiovascular system designed to accommodate diagnostic and interventional procedures. The system will be showcased at the 19th Annual Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics show, being held October 22-24, 2007 in Washington, DC. (Read more...)

October 17, 2007
Toshiba America Medical Systems Vehicle Fleet Going Green
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc., a leader in diagnostic and medical imaging systems, announces its commitment to replacing the company's entire fleet of sedans for its sales and service teams with hybrid cars over the next three years. As part of Toshiba Corporation's global environmental initiative, Toshiba chose the Toyota Camry Hybrid to replace one-third of the current gas-only fleet each year. (Read more...)

September 4, 2007
Dye used in heart procedures may damage diabetics' kidneys: study
(source: Associated Press)
Diabetic patients with normal kidneys may suffer damage as a result of a dye used in the angioplasty heart procedure, a study by Singapore's National University Hospital (NUH) said on Wednesday. The kidney damage can be permanent in some cases, and severe enough for the patient to require dialysis. (Read more...)

August 30, 2007
Toshiba's Aquilion 16- and 64-slice CT Systems Installed in East Tennessee Children's Hospital
With its advanced dose reduction, 32mm detector coverage and low contrast-resolution features, the Aquilion line allows clinicians to conduct complex exams on children without sacrificing patient safety. Aquilion's ability to image at 0.5mm isotropic slices is particularly important when imaging children because the isotropic resolution allows for improved visualization of smaller anatomies. (Read more...)

August 27, 2007
Toshiba Installs Two Infinix CF-i/BP Vascular X-Ray Systems at the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Sibley Heart Center
"In addition to offering greater patient access, the Infinix CF-i/BP also helps improve patient care by reducing the amount of contrast media needed in pediatric patients," explained Robert Micer, director, X-Ray Vascular Business Unit, Toshiba. "Physicians are able to image using two planes simultaneously, reducing the amount of contrast given to infant patients compared to when using a single plane system."(Read more...)

July 26, 2007
Live Demonstration Using Toshiba Infinix CF-i/BP to be Performed at Pediatric Interventional Cardiac Symposium
Dr. Zahid Amin, professor and medical director of Catherization Services in the University of Nebraska Medical Center/Creighton University Medical Center Joint Division of Pediatric Cardiology and at Children's Hospital in Omaha, will perform a closure of coronary artery fistula and a stent placement in branch pulmonary artery via live simulcast on July 24, 2007, using the Toshiba Infinix CF-i/BP. (Read more...)

July 24, 2007
Volcano Corporation Announces Japan Approval of the s5i Integrated IVUS Platform
Volcano Corporation today announced approval of the s5i Integrated IVUS System by necessary regulatory authorities in Japan, granting entry into the Japanese market. Volcano expects to launch the s5i into Japan, which represents the largest Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) market worldwide, during the current quarter. (Read more...)

July 5, 2007
Use of CT Scans to Diagnose Peripheral Vascular Disease Subject of New Training Course Being Offered by CVCTA Education and Toshiba
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. today announced a partnership with CVCTA Education to provide a Peripheral Vascular CTA (PV-CTA) training course. This course will be the first of its kind to exceed current ACCF/AHA Level 2 requirements in the ACCF/AHA Clinical Competence Statement on Cardiac Imaging with Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance. (Read more...)

July 3, 2007
First U.S. Hospital Installation of New MRI Technology at Platte Valley Medical Center
(source: Platte Valley Medical Center)
Platte Valley Medical Center’s new Medical Imaging Department will offer one of the highest combined levels of MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) imaging in the world with new features that enhance both patient comfort and image accuracy. (Read more...)

July 3, 2007
Update on CorE 64 Study of CT Heart Angiograms
Since the advent of multidetector (or multislice) CT angiography over the past few years, one of the big questions has been whether or not this non-invasive imaging technology might ulitmately replace the standard invasive coronary angiogram for the detection of obstructive coronary artery disease. CT angiography is faster, less expensive and safer than a cardiac catheterization. (Read more...)

June 20, 2007
Additional Virtual Colonoscopy Training Programs Being Offered by Harvard Medical School
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. today announced it will sponsor a continuing medical education course in Virtual Colonoscopy in collaboration with Brigham and Women's Hospital, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. Having offered courses since 2004, Harvard is now expanding the program and will also be teaching the course at the Toshiba Education Center in Irvine, Calif. with open enrollment to physicians worldwide. (Read more...)

June 13, 2007
Toshiba Reduces Neurological CT Angiography Exam Time with "SURE" Subtraction Software
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Toshiba's SURESubtraction technology completely automates the bone subtraction process, reducing exam time by as much as 90 percent and resulting in faster, more accurate exams. (Read more...)

June 8, 2007
Consumer Reports Gives Incorrect Information About Angioplasty and CT Angiograms
Last week Consumer Reports posted their recommendations on angioplasty and CT angiograms, as part of their CR Medical Guide web site. The article is riddled with incorrect information and assumptions and leaves one with the impression that coronary artery disease is best treated with medications alone, or bypass surgery. (Read more...)

May 22, 2007
Toshiba Names Jeff Howorth Vice President of Strategic Business Group
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Howorth will be responsible for developing Toshiba's Strategic Business Group, a new division within the company focused on developing partnerships with Integrated Delivery Networks (IDNs). He will oversee strategic business account managers across the country who will be equipped with a portfolio consisting of Toshiba medical equipment, as well as products from Toshiba sister companies, customized marketing services, financing programs and consulting services. (Read more...)

May 7, 2007
Toshiba Installs First Vantage Powered by Atlas MRI System at Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging Center
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc., a global leader in diagnostic and medical imaging systems, today announced it has installed its first Vantage powered by Atlas 1.5T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system at Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging (SDMI), one of the country's premier imaging centers located in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Read more...)

May 3, 2007
Toshiba to Provide 20 Xario Ultrasound Systems to Oregon Institute of Technology
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Martha Anne Dow, president, Oregon Institute of Technology, states, "Our goal is to offer students training on the best technology available to prepare them for high-tech, high-demand careers in the medical field. Using Toshiba Xario ultrasound systems provides our students access to cutting-edge technology and software that is setting standards in many hospitals today."(Read more...)

May 2, 2007
Toshiba's CorE 64 Multislice CT Study Completes Enrollment
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Toshiba's CorE 64 trial investigates the use of multi-slice CT as the primary diagnostic tool for detecting cardiovascular diseases and disorders, as compared to cardiac catheterization, a costly, invasive technique. Data collected to date from CorE 64 indicates CT holds a favorable place as a diagnostic alternative to cardiac catheterization and has the potential to change the delivery of healthcare. (Read more...)

May 1, 2007
Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography Announces Young Investigator's Award
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
The Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography (SCCT), the leading professional society devoted exclusively to cardiovascular computed tomography (CT), today announced a new annual award program focused on innovation in the field of patient care: the Young Investigator's Award, sponsored by Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. through an unrestricted educational grant. (Read more...)

April 30, 2007
Cincinnati's Children's Hospital Medical Center Selects Toshiba's Aplio XG Ultrasound System
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Less than six months after Toshiba America Medical Systems introduced the Aplio™ XG ultrasound system, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, the nation's premier site for pediatric radiology, purchased 13 of the systems for its pediatric ultrasound division. (Read more...)

April 25, 2007
Volcano Corporation Schedules First Quarter Conference Call, Webcast
(source: Volcano Corporation)
The company will hold a conference call to discuss its financial results and operating activities to all interested parties at 2 p.m., Pacific Daylight Time (5 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time), Monday, May 7, hosted by Scott Huennekens, president and chief executive officer, and John Dahldorf, chief financial officer. (Read more...)

April 18, 2007
COURAGE, SPIRIT Data May Support Role of Advanced Imaging and Diagnosis With IVUS and FFR
(source: Volcano Corporation)
The results of recent studies presented at this year's American College of Cardiology may support the role played by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and fraction flow reserve (FFR) in diagnosing the need for stenting more accurately than standard angiography and, when the use of a stent is indicated, aiding in the accuracy of stent placement. (Read more...)

April 9, 2007
First Toshiba Aplio XG Ultrasound Installed at Largest Outpatient Imaging Practice in U.S.
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging (SDMI) in Las Vegas reports better diagnosis and improved patient outcomes with Toshiba;s new, state-of-the-art system. (Read more...)

April 4, 2007
Volcano Corp. Reports Use of Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) Increasing as Physicians Refocus on Stent Technique
While use in the United States of DES has decreased from 89% to an estimated 70% over the past year, driven by concerns over stent thrombosis causing heart attacks, and confidence in Bare Metal Stent (BMS) safety, for the same period, Volcano has seen an increase of 25% in IVUS revenue, demonstrating more reliance on detailed imaging to guide optimal DES and BMS placement. (Read more...)

April 4, 2007
Toshiba MR Systems Allow for Safe MRA Exams
Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. has developed three imaging techniques for its MR product line, including the Vantage systems, that allow for contrast free imaging during MRA procedures. Contrast-free imaging is particularly important because gadolinium, the common contrast agent used for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) exams, recently has been directly linked to nephrogenic systemic fibrosis also known as nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy (NSF/NFD), a sometimes fatal disease that occurs in patients with renal insufficiency. (Read more...)

April 3, 2007
Volcano Corporation and ev3 Inc. Announce Joint Marketing and Distribution Agreement
Under the terms of the agreement, Volcano will have the opportunity to sell ev3's SpiderFX Embolic Protection Device in conjunction with their Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) and Functional Measurement (FM) devices for use in saphenous vein grafts (SVG's) in the U.S. (Read more...)

April 3, 2007
Johns Hopkins University Installs Toshiba Infinix DP-i/FD2
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and its Heart Institute is installing the Infinix™ DP-i/FD2 imaging system from Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. Johns Hopkins will use the system for detailed peripheral vascular work and coronary studies for more efficient, comprehensive patient care. (Read more...)

March 28, 2007
Johns Hopkins Now Testing Only 256-Slice CT Scanner in North America
The new 2-metric-ton device - the first of its kind in North America and only the second outside of Japan, where its manufacturer is based - has four times the detector coverage of its immediate predecessor, the 64-CT. It can measure subtle changes in blood flow or minute blockages forming in blood vessels no bigger than the average width of a toothpick (1.5 millimeters) in the heart and brain. (Read more...)

March 20, 2007
Multislice CT Scan Diagnoses Chest Pain in ER
A new study in Circulation shows that Multislice CT scanning in the Emergency Department can accurately diagnose chest pain of unknown origin. Published online yesterday, this study, the third such reported in as many months, adds more evidence that 64-slice CT scans are a major diagnostic tool for establishing the presence of coronary narrowing. (Read more...)

March 7, 2007
Toshiba Installs Landmark 400th VANTAGE 1.5T MRI System
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
The installation occurred at LakeWest Hospital in Willoughby, Ohio (part of the Lake Hospital System) and marks more than 100 Vantage installs in the last nine months. Toshiba's patented Pianissimo™ technology, which reduces acoustic noise by as much as 90 percent, is a key component of the line's rapid adoption and clinical acceptance. (Read more...)

February 28, 2007
CT Heart Scan in ER Saves Time and Money
This week's Journal of the American College of Cardiology reports that Multislice CT can save time and money in the Emergency Room to determine whether chest pain is cardiac-related. (Read more...)

February 22, 2007
Kidney patients at risk from MRI dye
Federal health officials are warning doctors that certain types of metallic dye, containing gadolinium, injected for MRI scans have been linked to a rare and dangerous skin disease in kidney patients. More than two dozen dialysis patients in St. Louis over a four-year period contracted the unusual skin ailment, which causes burning and itching that can lead to discoloration and stiffening of the skin. (Read more...)

February 13, 2007
Volcano Corporation and Cordis Endovascular Japan Announces Distribution Agreement for IVUS Indications
(source: Volcano Corporation)
Volcano Corporation today announced the signing of a distribution agreement with Johnson & Johnson K.K., Medical Company.The agreement appoints Cordis Endovascular Systems Japan as a distributor of IVUS products for use in peripheral and endovascular procedures in Japan.

February 7, 2007
Emergency Room Cardiac CT Used to Rule Out Coronary Artery Disease
A study published in the current issue of "Academic Emergency Medicine" finds that Cardiac CT (also called CT Angiography or Multislice CT) can be used in the Emergency Room to quickly rule out heart problems in low-risk patients who come in with chest pain. (Read more...)

February 6, 2007
Frost & Sullivan Acknowledges Toshiba’s Phenomenal Rise in the North American CT Market
(source: Frost & Sullivan.)
Toshiba America Medical Systems make significant inroads to the North American CT market, capturing 19% of the 2005 market to become a major player in the highly competitive field of CT, X-ray and MRI medical imaging.(Read more...)

February 5, 2007
Brigham and Women's Hospital Selects Toshiba's Aquilion 64 CFX
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Toshiba's Aquilion CFX will play an important role in BWH's ongoing evaluation and validation of cardiac CT as a tool for diagnosing early stage heart disease without the use of interventional procedures that can cause greater risk for the patient. (Read more...)

January 29, 2007
Toshiba America Medical Systems Named Best in KLAS in CT and MR for 2006
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
The Aquilion™ 64-slice CT and the Vantage 1.5T MRI systems from Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. received top honors in the Medical Equipment Leaders category with two 2006 Best in KLAS awards one in CT and one in MR. (Read more...)

November 27, 2006
Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) Imaging Technology May Help Lower Rates of Late Stent Thrombosis
While there are a number of causes of late stent thrombosis that have been identified, one of the factors most associated is poor apposition (incomplete expansion or suboptimal positioning) of the drug-eluting stent. A recent presentation by Dr. William Wijns of Aalst, Belgium at last month's TCT meeting showed that in 77% of the late stent thrombosis cases (clotting one year after implantation) the stent showed incomplete apposition (mal-apposition was seen in only 12% of cases where there was no stent thrombosis). (Read more...)

November 21, 2006
Toshiba's Diagnostic Imaging System Used to Investigate Aircraft Component Reliability
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Demonstrating the ability of Toshiba's Aquilion LB (Large Bore) CT scanner to iamge vedry large objects, Lockheed Martin is utilizing the scanner to ensure the integrity and reliability of aircraft parts.

November 20, 2006
Toshiba and Liberty Pacific Medical Imaging Partner to Deliver Innovative Cardiac CT Training Program
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Furthering the availability of training for Cardiac CT, Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. announced a new partnership with CVCTA Education and San Francisco Advanced Medical Imaging, a Liberty Pacific Medical Imaging Company, to serve as the company's newest education and training partner. Recently, LPMI's San Francisco Advanced Medical Imaging installed Toshiba's Aquilion™ 64 CFX system — one of the most advanced cardiac computed tomography (CT) systems available in the marketplace today and the cornerstone of the program.

November 13, 2006
Volcano Announces Clinical Review of Key Presentations From TCT 2006
(source: Volcano Corporation)
The whole field of intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) is gaining in importance as problems are surfacing about drug-eluting stents. The value of IVUS

November 8, 2006
Toshiba Celebrates Grand Opening of the Toshiba Education Center
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
As part of its ongoing commitment to customer training, Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. today announced the grand opening of the Toshiba Education Center. The center, a $6 million, 4,840 square-foot expansion to the Toshiba Training Academy, provides a full complement of state-of-the-art classrooms and labs equipped with Toshiba’s advanced CT, MR and Vascular products, including the Aquilion™, Vantage and Infinix™ systems.

November 2, 2006
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Selects Toshiba CT
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
The nation’s premier site for pediatric radiology - Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center - has selected an Aquilion™ 64 CFX from Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. to strengthen its position as a provider of patient-friendly imaging technology and improve evaluation and treatment capabilities for its pediatric patients. The Aquilion 64 CFX was chosen based on several factors, including the system’s scanning speed, radiation dose profile, and expanded cardiac capabilities.

October 31, 2006
Toshiba Names Robert Micer Director of X-Ray/Vascular Business Unit
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
In this new role, Micer will be responsible for implementing tactical and strategic marketing plans for a business segment that helps to drive overall growth and profitability for the company. This key Toshiba leadership position is responsible for interfacing with Toshiba's global business unit in Japan to effectively communicate the needs and requirements of the U.S. markets.

October 30, 2006
Coronary Multidetector Computed Tomography in the Assessment of Patients With Acute Chest Pain
(source: Circulation)
Multislice CT scanning is now making inroads in the emergency room as a tool to quickly screen patients presenting with chest pain and eliminating non-cardiac causes with great accuracy. In this blinded study, CT scanning had a 100% negative predictive value, meaning that 100% of all patients who were having non-heart-related chest pains -- and were not suffering from acute coronary syndrome (ACS) -- were identified.

October 30, 2006
Toshiba Receives FDA Approval for Injector Synchronization Option
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
The company announced in a press release today that it has received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance for a new CAN Level 1 injector synchronization option for its Aquilion™ 64- and 32-slice computed tomography (CT) systems. The new option facilitates contrast enhanced CT exams by interfacing the CT scanner to a contrast injection system – giving clinicians the option to activate the contrast and the scanner without leaving the patient's side.

October 20, 2006
Volcano Corporation and MediGuide Ltd. Announce Collaboration for Advanced Imaging and Navigation Technology
(source: Volcano Corporation)
The companies initially plan to develop Guided IVUS (GIVUS), a product which will integrate MediGuide's Medical Positioning System (MPS) with Volcano's intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) system. This combination of technologies will expand the two dimensional aspect of the existing IVUS image into a three dimensional image that is designed to provide more useful clinical information, allow for easier interpretation of the image by interventional cardiologists and improve the clinical utility of the image.

October 16, 2006
Toshiba’s Vantage MRI System Achieves No. 1 ranking in KLAS Performance Study
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
In March, Toshiba's Aquilion 64-slice CT system ranked top in overall vendor ratings in the KLAS study. Now its MRI system has achieved a similar distinction.

October 11, 2006
Volcano Announces First Permanent Installations of the Integrated s5i IVUS Imaging System
(source: Volcano Corporation)
The company today announced the first permanent installations of the s5i IVUS (intravascular ultrasound) imaging system in both the U.S. and Europe. The s5i is Volcano's first IVUS system that can be integrated into any new or existing cath lab configuration. Through a series of customizable components, Volcano can now tailor an integrated IVUS solution to the unique user and workflow needs for any vendor's cath lab type or configuration.

October 2, 2006
Assessment of Coronary Artery Disease by Cardiac Computed Tomography
(source: Circulation, American Heart Association)
A long-awaited Scientific Statement on the value and use of coronary calcium scoring was released by the American Heart Association. The document represents a consensus view on which patients are best candidates for getting calcium scoring CT exams.

August 24, 2006
GE Healthcare and Volcano Corporation Announce FDA Clearance of Fully-Integrated Intravascular Ultrasound Imaging on the Innova Platform
(source: GE Healthcare and Volcano Corporation)
The FDA has given clearance to a new integrated state-of-the-art intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) platform with an all-digital X-ray cath lab imaging system. (Read more...)

August 23, 2006
Toshiba Partner Awarded First Place for Cardiac Imaging Research at ISMRM
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Dr. Katsumi Nakamura of Tobata Kyoritsu Hospital in Japan received first place honors for his research in the area of non-contrast magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) imaging. Nakamura, a radiologist and long-time Toshiba collaborator, received accolades for his poster presentation comparing non-contrast fresh blood imaging (FBI) to 16-slice computed tomography (CT) for the diagnosis of peripheral vascular disease using Toshiba's 1.5T MRI system. The poster was presented at the 14th annual International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine (ISMRM) Scientific Meeting & Exhibition, held May 6-12, 2006, in Seattle. (Read more...)

August 21, 2006
Toshiba Secures Exclusive Five-Year Equipment Agreement with OhioHealth
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
Further establishing its business in the Midwest, Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. today announced an exclusive five-year agreement with OhioHealth. Under the terms of the contract, four award-winning OhioHealth hospitals — Grant Medical Center, Riverside Methodist Hospital, Doctors Hospital and Grady Memorial Hospital — and six diagnostic imaging centers will acquire more than 20 Aquilion™ computed tomography (CT) scanners — the most advanced multislice CT technology available. (Read more...)

August 15, 2006
ACCF Releases Appropriateness Criteria for Cardiac CT and Cardiac MR
To address the many questions of when and for whom the new imaging technologies, like Multislice CT scanning and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging, should be used, the American College of Cardiology Foundation (ACCF) released Appropriateness Criteria this week for these two relatively new clinical cardiac imaging modalities. (Read more...)

August 1, 2006
Toshiba Announces Version 3.0 Software for Aquilion 64
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
The company announces new software for their current state-of-the-art 64-slice CT scanner that will "deliver one of the industry's fastest 'data to diagnosis' solutions and advanced workflow improvements that increase productivity and help make departments more efficient." 64-slice CT scanners generate vast amounts of data that needs to be processed before a meaningful image can be viewed. With the increasing use of multislice CT scanners in ER and Trauma Centers, speed of diagnosis is critical.

July 28, 2006
FEATURE: Will Multislice CT Angiography Replace Catheterization?
A study from the Cleveland Clinic was published earlier this week in JAMA comparing multidetector computed tomography ((a.k.a. Multislice CT) to the more invasive catheter-based angiography, currently considered the "gold standard" for measuring the blockage in coronary arteries. News media reports on the study were mixed. So one might wonder exactly what the study means for patients: are CT coronary scans good or not? (Read more...)

July 26, 2006
Toshiba's New NEMIO XG Ultrasound Upgrade Improves Diagnosis and Patient Care
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
The company today announced the availability of a new upgrade for the popular Nemio™ ultrasound system. Using next-generation technology, the Nemio XG provides the image quality needed to render a fast, accurate diagnosis – limiting the number of patients who are referred for more serious procedures, testing and follow up.

July 26, 2006
McKesson and Toshiba Target Small Hospitals and Imaging Centers with Combined Medical Imaging Solution
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.)
McKesson announced that it has signed a distribution agreement with Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc. The agreement calls for Toshiba to offer McKesson's No. 1 ranked Horizon Medical Imaging™ PACS solution with Toshiba's innovative diagnostic imaging devices, including the Aquilion™ line of CT scanners. The agreement is designed to offer imaging centers and hospitals under 200 beds a turnkey solution that's affordable, easy to implement and easy to support. In a joint statement, McKesson and Toshiba noted that they believe this agreement is the best way to offer the community market affordable, easily installed best-of-breed diagnostic imaging solutions.

July 25, 2006
FEATURE: SHAPE Guidelines On Diagnosis Generate Heated Controversy
These recommendations were characterized in one medical publication as "a bold new report", yet in another they were labeled as "scientifically extremely questionable" and they "should be repudiated". In the public realm, today's Boston Globe ran a feature story questioning the apparent conflict of interest involved by who paid for the publication of the guidelines, which ran as a supplement in the July 17 issue of the American Journal of Cardiology. (Read more...)

July 21, 2006
Hospitals snap up 64-slice heart scanners
(source: Alan Bavley, The News-Sentinel, Fort Wayne, Indiana)
This feature article covers a wide range of topics concerning the rapidly growing use of 64-slice CT scans to diagnose coronary artery disease, a subject not without controversy. The article states an oft-quoted fact, that one-third of all diagnostic cardiac catheterizations (angiograms) turn out to be normal. Most current studies of Multislice CT scans show a negative predictive value in the high 90's (the patient does not have significant disease) -- at a cost that 10% of a standard angiogram and non-invasive.
related stories:
Multislice CT Angiogram -- Angioplasty.Org
Interview with Daniel S. Berman, MD -- Angioplasty.Org

July 10, 2006
New guideline for screening apparently healthy individuals to prevent a heart attack
(source: Association for Eradication of Heart Attack)
A group of influential cardiologists, imaging and other specialists has produced a dynamic and somewhat controversial report, which appeared as a supplement to today's American Journal of Cardiology. In it, the authors call for carotid ultrasound and CT scanning for all "at risk" men and women, defined as those men over 45 and women over 55 who meet one or more of the following risk factors, even if they have no symptoms: raised cholesterol (> 200mg/dL), high blood pressure (> 120/80 mm Hg), diabetes, family history of heart disease, metabolic syndrome or smoking. The task force named themselves SHAPE (Screening for Heart Attack Prevention and Education). (Read more...)

May 30, 2006
St. Francis and Temple University Hospitals Expand Vascular Imaging Capabilities with New Toshiba Infinix DP-i/FD2
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems)
Toshiba's new system, introduced in March, is the only single lab that meets American College of Cardiology guidelines for both cardiac and peripheral work. The availability of this system and its adoption reflects the growing trend in medicine toward treating vascular disease as an entity, whether heart-related (coronary artery disease) or in the peripheral circulation (legs, kidney, etc.) -- many patients who have vascular disease in one area often have it elsewhere. According to Dr. James Burke, director, cardiac catheterization laboratories and interventional cardiology at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia, "With our patients as our top priority, we chose Toshiba's Infinix DP-i/FD2 because it was clear that the technology would enable us to improve our diagnosis and treatment capabilities.... We can diagnose and treat all of the cardiac and vascular problems in our patients without compromising either area. This is the future of comprehensive cardiovascular care."

May 23, 2006
Toshiba Installs 300th Vantage 1.5T MRI System
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems)
Toshiba's advantage in this field is its patented Pianissimo™ technology, which reduces by almost 90% the acoustic noise, identified as the most significant cause of patient anxiety. Reduction of the noise often eliminates the need for anti-anxiety medication or sedation during routine scans. In addition, Toshiba’s SPEEDER parallel imaging technology allows clinicians to perform exams in a single breath hold, reducing motion artifacts and increasing image quality. In this company press release radiologist John Mathis from the Center for Advanced Imaging in Roanoke, Virgina, where the 300th Vantage was installed, states, “We typically conduct about 4,500 MRI scans a year, and anxiety caused by system noise is a significant issue for many of our patients. In fact, we receive countless referrals because we offer the latest in MRI technology with improved patient comfort.”
related stories:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Angiography (MRI / MRA) -- Angioplasty.Org

May 12, 2006
Toshiba's Technology Contributions Featured on Top Morning Talk Show "Live With Regis and Kelly"
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems)
Toshiba Medical and other Toshiba divisions have donated over $80,000 worth of ultrasound and other equipment to Partners for Healing clinic (PFH) which serves an uninsured community in Tullahoma, Tennessee, as part of “Live with Regis and Kelly’s” 16th annual “Mom’s Dream Come True” Mother's Day special.

May 9, 2006
Toshiba Achieves Educational Milestone for Unique Physican-to-Physician Speakers Bureau Program
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems)
The company has now enrolled more than 2,500 cardiologists and radiologists in its education and training programs to help expand the knowledge base among medical professionals regarding the latest diagnostic imaging modalities, and 64-slice CT technology in particular.
related stories:
MultiSlice Computed Tomography (MSCT) -- Angioplasty.Org

May 9, 2006
FEATURE: Safety Risk of Multislice CT Angiogram Compared to Cardiac Catheterization
Two articles in the recent Journal of the American College of Cardiology, published online on April 17, address the debate of how non-invasive MultiSlice Computed Tomography (MSCT) imaging compares to standard angiography (cardiac catheterization) on the issue of safety. Whether or not the radiation dosage of one procedure is higher than another is only one part of the safety equation. (Read more...)

May 8, 2006
Toshiba Ships 600th Aquilion 64-Row Detector System Worldwide
(source: Toshiba America Medical Systems)
In their press release, Toshiba states that this is "a significant milestone for the company’s CT business, which has installed more than 17,000 CT systems in hospitals, imaging centers