September 23, 2008 – A multicenter trial testing intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for patients with early stage oropharyngeal cancer showed a reduction in long-term salivary toxicity while achieving good tumor control according to new research from the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) presented at ASTRO 2008.

September 23, 2008 - The number of newly-diagnosed cancer patients age 65 and older who are enrolled in Medicare’s Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) plans has increased by 6 percent within the past four years, and is shown to limit patients’ participation in clinical trials because they believe they cannot afford the plan’s out-of-pocket expense, according to a first-of-its-kind study presented at ASTRO 2008.

September 23, 2008 – Cancer patients with tumors that have spread to the brain (brain metastases) who undergo stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and whole brain radiation have more than double the risk of developing learning and memory problems, compared to those who only have stereotactic radiosurgery, according to a randomized study presented at ASTRO 2008.

September 23, 2008 - The 2008 Frost & Sullivan European Product Innovation Award in the field of novel real-time image reconstruction products has been presented to Barco.

The Belgium-based company leads in the provision of high-quality display and image processing solutions with its three-dimensional reconstruction product, TDRS-7101.

The Frost & Sullivan Award for Product Innovation is presented each year to the company that has demonstrated excellence in new products and technologies within its industry.

September 23, 2008 – At ASTRO 2008, Orfit Industries America showcased its new winged “L” profiles that secure Efficast masks for head, neck and shoulders into the high precision slots in the Orfit base plate.

Compared to competitive u-shaped or s-type masks with commonly used push pins or that use swivel clamps, these new winged “L” profiles reportedly can be easily grasped with the fingers. This makes it easier to mold Efficast masks, position them precisely and remove them quickly in case of emergency, according to the company.

September 23, 2008 – The FDA has granted approval for Covidien’s generic kit for the preparation of technetium Tc99m Sestamibi injection use for nuclear myocardial perfusion imaging.

September 23, 2008 - Accuray Inc. introduced at ASTRO 2008 its InTempo Adaptive Imaging System, which enhances the CyberKnife Robotic Radiosurgery System’s ability to continually track and correct for motion of the prostate during treatment.

September 23, 2008 – The secret to success for Baptist Centers for Cancer Care’s Radiation Oncology Center (Baptist) is its mission – its mission to demonstrate commitment to excellence provided by caring and passionate individuals.

In honor of the Memphis, Tennessee-based center’s proven clinical leadership in its region, in technological upgrades and consistent patient care, Imaging Technology News honored Baptist with the 2008 Outpatient Care Centers of Excellence for Cancer Centers presented at ASTRO.

September 23, 2008 - Digirad Corp. yesterday announced FDA clearance of its nSPEED reconstruction software, to be used in its imaging systems for SPECT procedures at either half-time and/or half count densities with parallel and non-parallel hole collimators, reportedly resulting in quicker exams, improved image quality and less radiation exposure.

September 23, 2008 - Siemens Healthcare showed its works-in-progress (WIP) TREAGO Robotic Table, a system designed for fast, precise patient positioning during radiation therapy, at ASTRO 2008.

TREAGO reportedly fully automates the entire positioning process, increasing accuracy and saving patient on-table time. The design supports complex treatment applications and provides clinicians the flexibilitiy to personalize patient care.

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