Contouring dose with pinpoint, multidimensional accuracy, targeting a tumor without damaging surrounding tissue and destroying a tumor in one radiation session is still a lofty goal in radiation therapy, and rarely attainable. For years, radiation oncologists and physicists have longed for technology to match their need for imaging and radiation delivery methods that hit all of these objectives.

While the DRA has cut short the burgeoning growth of imaging services, particularly those offered by outpatient centers, it also presents other players in the imaging value chain with new opportunities.

With the development of 3D-CRT, IMRT, stereotactic approaches and other advanced forms of radiation therapy, imaging has become increasingly important in the field of radiation oncology.

As molecular imaging transitions from undercard modality to mainstream tool in diagnostic imaging, the reality of personalized healthcare appears to be on the horizon. An increasing limelight placed on the modality has attracted both investors and new companies, leading to significant milestones in R&D and thus fulfilling the promise of “true” personalized medicine.