10/30/2008
Definiens Explores Computer-Aided Detection Applications for the Medical Imaging Market
Advanced CAD Applications to Facilitate Faster, More Precise Diagnostic Image Analysis
Munich / Morristown, NJ – October 30, 2008 – Definiens, the number one Enterprise Image Intelligence™ company, is developing computer-aided detection (CAD) applications for the 3D and 4D medical imaging field. The applications will help radiologists rapidly and accurately identify and track lesions of interest, facilitating earlier detection and personalized treatments.
According to the World Health Organization, cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the world and accounted for 7.6 million deaths worldwide in 2005. Advancements in medical imaging systems (e.g., CT, MRI, PET) promise earlier detection and treatment, promoting survival rates. However, prevalent use of medical imaging has led to a dramatic increase in the volume of images to be analyzed, resulting in higher workloads and logistical bottlenecks for clinical radiologists.
Definiens CAD applications will support radiologists in the collection of diagnostic data, reducing human error due to fatigue or data overload. The applications utilize contextual information to compare images from different modalities and over time in a consistent and reproducible manner. Definiens’ applications can be implemented in standard medical imaging systems to provide automated volumetric measurements of almost all structures, including organs and lesions.
“Definiens aims to provide image intelligence at every stage of cancer diagnosis, from screening to biopsy,” said Frank P. Klein, VP of Medical Imaging at Definiens. “Our software applications will assist experts in the collection of consistent and timely information about lesions of interest, which we believe will result in more effective patient care.”
Current measurement criteria, such as RECIST for tumors, employ only one-dimensional measurements. Definiens’ CAD applications are specifically designed to measure and track tumors volumetrically and over time, producing highly accurate assessments of tumor size and growth. This will allow radiologists to make earlier, more informed judgements on the efficacy of treatments and whether to continue or alter treatment options.
“Lymph nodes play a critical role in the assessment of the spread of cancer through the lymphatic system and the staging of almost all types of cancer and therapy control,” said Klein. “Our new applications will enable radiologists to analyze and track lymph nodes of interest in an accurate and consistent manner. The earlier the metastatic spread of cancer can be detected, the higher the chances are for successful treatment.”
Definiens will introduce its first medical application, Definiens LymphExpert™, at RSNA 2008. The new application is designed to help radiologists analyze lymph nodes, providing volumetric insight and time modeling functions.
Definiens in Medical Imaging
By automating image analysis, Definiens supports Healthcare providers in analyzing and interpreting vast numbers of digital images accurately and consistently. Definiens is working to improve the analysis of tissue samples and non-invasive imaging, enabling translational medicine - from early diagnosis to personalized treatment.
