The Changing Marketplace

Recently, KLAS Research released its report, “Women’s Imaging 2015: Are New Technologies Delivering Promised Benefits?” The report discusses 3-D tomosynthesis, the latest technology to provide clearer images during screening and diagnostic procedures. Only now has it become more widely available for use. 

For years Hologic was the only vendor on the scene with FDA approval, but now Siemens and GE have entered the market with tomosynthesis options as well. The KLAS report states that Hologic still dominates the 3-D tomosynthesis marketplace, but is facing competition from Siemens and GE.

In addition, the report finds Phillips equipment still provides the strongest image quality for general ultrasound, while Toshiba receives the highest overall satisfaction score due to their engaged support and adequate image quality and workflow. The report also states that Siemens and GE users acknowledge the strength and quality of ultrasound images provided by their systems, and both are starting to expand their automated whole breast ultrasound offering, which KLAS predicts could potentially be the next new technology that changes the shape of the industry.

“Patients are knowledgeable about women’s imaging and are seeking out healthcare organizations that use top-performing equipment for their procedures,” said KLAS Research Director Monique Rasband. “Patient satisfaction is driving industry innovation and leading organizations to proactively inform the public now about their updated imaging technology.”

Technology for the Cure

The research and technology to better detect breast cancer continues. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, ITN is proud to go pink in an effort to continue to spread attention and awareness of this disease. In this issue, you will find several articles that address the progress that is being made in women’s health technology.

•    On page 28 of this issue, analysts from MD Buyline looks at the current trends in the digital breast tomosynthesis market in “3-D Tomosynthesis: Where Are We Now?” 

•    “Intraoperative Radiation Therapy: An Emerging Technology” on page 33 discusses some of the smaller, mobile delivery systems and new clinical evidence that is driving innovation for radiation therapy.

•    Page 44 features a discussion on the outlook for finding and dealing with breast cancer with “How Technology is Changing the Outlook of Breast Cancer.”