It's amazing how many specialized large, mid-sized and smaller companies support the world of medical imaging. From cables to casters, every connection of the big scanning machines is matched with dozens of hardware and software innovations to help clinicians, technicians, and administrators. Notable examples are PACS systems to archive and share images, and teleradiology services, which allow remote reading now that digital images can be transmitted. Other details are also handled by a wide range of products and accessories to test and operate the equipment for radiation protection and shielding, patient positioning and comfort and many other purposes.

Here are some RSNA exhibitor highlights:

-Merge Healthcare (which merged with Cedara Software) received Joint Commission accreditation just yesterday for its new teleradiology software, Merge TeleRead. They're not the only company to facilitate reading of studies off shore, but the unique thing here is their Consult Pre-Read which provides a preliminary report read by two doctors in India who provide detailed findings to the U.S. radiologist. It's a great quality control measure in addition to its administrative benefits. The company is also the maker of the popular eFilm Workstation, widely used downloaded desktop diagnostic imaging software. At the show, Merge debuted version 3.0 as a work in progress. Additional features include spine labeling, enhanced media burning and other capabilities.

-Planar Systems, makers of specialty display technology, introduced the world's first 16 megapixel, 30-inch grayscale medical display, the Planar Dome(R) Z16. It claims unprecedented resolution designed to increase diagnostic confidence. Its precision and clarity offers a large, high-rez display for digital mammography screening.

-Visage Imaging is teaming with Agfa to provided the Visage CS Thin Client/Server for Agfa's IMPAX. This will allow large image data volumes to be stored on a central server and support 3D and 4D viewing from any computer on the system. Large, multi-slice CT studies can be shared in this way on existing PACS systems.

-Candelis introduced a new RIS/PACs suite to go with its ImageGrid DICOM line for general radiology and mammography. Low cost and ease of installation are the key advantages.

-TomoVision developed software, DICOMatic, that will convert older image formats from CT, MR and ultrasound machines into DICOM so they can be migrated to an existing or planned PACS system. The software basically moves old CD or magnetic storage media that scanners output and enables those files to be put on a computer.

-BrainLAB, a global leader in software-driven systems for targeted, less-invasive medical treatments, showcased the Digital Lightbox, combining the advantages of a traditional hospital lightbox with the features of modern computer workstations. Digital Lightbox offers flexibility for physicians who require access to images, including MRIs, CTs, PETs and x-rays. The product integrates with a hospital's PACS system.

-JD Imaging, a DOTmed 100 company, was also an exhibitor. The firm, a Siemens MRI specialist, buys and sells refurbished laser imagers.

-Axess Ultrasound, DOTmed Certified, has recently formed a strategic alliance with Sonora Medical Systems to expand its services to include ultrasound transducer repair and exchange.

-Mobile X-Ray Solutions, also DOTmed Certified, featured its expertise in the GE AMX line of portable x-ray machines.

-Barrington Medical Imaging, LLC (DOTmed Certified) provides all makes and models of CT and MRI systems as well as refurbished imaging equipment. They also have added a new business, Barrington Medical Technology (BMT) to manage the warranty and existing service contract sites. BMT sells new service contracts and refurbished parts for all makes and models of CT and MRI equipment to brokers, ISOs, hospital organizations, Biomed departments, and OEMs.

-CAD Sciences provides MRI-CAD (computer assisted diagnosis) software. The company developed proprietary and organ-customized Motion Correction (MC) algorithms. Its new MC suite is optimized for specific scanning applications which include, among others, breast MRI, prostate MRI, lung CT and lung MRI.

-Dimplex Thermal Solutions showcased its industrial liquid chillers for medical equipment such as installed or mobile MR.

-NeoTool supports diagnostic imaging practices to help them integrate RIS and PACS systems into their workflow, interface with referring doctors, and deliver patient reports electronically into the EMR to speed results to patients.

-Control Research makes the Rolloscope M series automated mammography film viewers and Rolloscope MD, an innovation combining digital LCD monitors with prior film comparison into one convenient viewing station.

-Mammobase specializes in mammography recording and reporting software that is BI-RADS compliant, produces all required reports, automates generation of physician reports, patient results letters, pathology follow-up, & recall letters.

-CFI Medical Solutions makes medical accessories including CT and MR table pads and straps and positioning aids in all shapes and sizes.

-Advanced Instrument Development makes power supplies, ionization chambers, and accessories for mobile x-ray units.

-JPI America focuses on imaging grids, protective aprons, compact film processors, even a podiatry x-ray system.

-Humphries Casters and Supplies provides wheels and casters for medical equipment and is a distributor for hundreds of national and international manufacturers.

This are just a sampling of some unsung exhibits at this year's RSNA. For a complete list of DOTmed users at the show, enter the story number DM5046 in any search box.