DM: But as things now stand, there is no volumetric MRI image enhancement?

JEH: Correct. We have announced that our next big product introduction will be 3D enhancement for MRI, but we have not yet set the time for it. We are still exploring different ways of introducing the technology. I would say within a year is reasonable.


DM: What about image fusion, is that a software function?

JEH: Yes, you overlay images from different modalities and by doing that you can show information more extensively than if separated. This is something we are not directly involved in, the fusion itself. It is an interesting discipline in terms of value. But we would be involved in the step before image fusion.

DM: Last year, ContextVision added an interventional radiology product to its product line. Can you comment on the clinical value of interventional radiology?

JEH: Interventional Radiology is the combination of diagnostic imaging and therapeutic treatment, basically at the same time. It uses the diagnostic imaging data to guide a therapeutic solution to the appropriate site, taking the therapeutic action and then following with a fresh diagnostic image to ensure the therapy was positioned accurately. This real-time combination of diagnosis and therapy leads to reduced hospital stays and better clinical efficacy. This type of minimally invasive medicine is the direction that medicine is going in because it leads to reduced cost and better medicine. Additionally, an IR product like GOPView iRVPlus can enable a dose reduction up to one-third, which minimizes both patient and staff exposure.

DM: What aspects of software and medical technology would you like to leave our readers with?

JEH: We are dedicated to medical image enhancement. It is in our vision to remain on top and look for improvement at all times. It is a combination of being ahead in terms of mathematical algorithms and in understanding the clinical value--working extensively with university hospitals in the U.S. to stay ahead of providing the best possible solutions at all given times. This is really the driving force for us going forward.

Entering volumetric image enhancement is certainly a very big step. It is a conversation that takes place between the doctors, ourselves, and the manufacturers in terms of pushing the boundaries. This is very exciting for us and the people in our company that want to stay on the leading edge.


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ContextVision Announces Positive Clinical Evaluation for GOPiCE US Volumetric Image Enhancement

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