Medical Imaging

Physicians utilize medical imaging to see inside the body to diagnose and treat patients. This includes computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray, ultrasound, fluoroscopy, angiography, and the nuclear imaging modalities of PET and SPECT.

Mechanical thrombectomy beats anticoagulation alone in STORM-PE
Highly anticipated trial data comparing mechanical thrombectomy to anticoagulation alone for intermediate- and high-risk pulmonary embolism showed that the more aggressive strategy improved outcomes.
Medicare MRI reimbursement has plummeted 77% since 2003, when adjusting for inflation
Exams are being delivered faster, thanks to abbreviated protocols, but experts contend insurers should not cut MRI pay because of such efficiencies.
Fewer radiologists are interpreting breast imaging exams, with key workforce implications
From 2013 to 2022, the percentage of rads submitting breast care claims to Medicare dropped from about 47% down to 34%.
Experts caution patients on the dangers of boutique fetal ultrasounds
Due to the elective, rather than diagnostic, nature of these exams, operators are not required to complete formal training or be registered if the scans are done in privately owned entities.
Rural hospitals band together to offer MRI services
Five Northern California critical access hospitals are banding together to share a mobile MRI unit across three counties.

Brittany Nicole Weber, MD, Brigham and Women's Hospital, explains the use of opportunistic CT screening for cardiovascular disease on noncardiac exams.

Opportunistic screening with AI could be a game-changer for preventive cardiology

Brittany Nicole Weber, MD, PhD, detailed new research into the benefits of screening for cardiovascular disease in CT scans not specifically ordered for that purpose. The rise of AI has helped make opportunistic screening a huge trend in both cardiology and radiology.

New PET technique improves imaging of pediatric neuroblastoma.

New PET technique slashes scan times, improves image quality in neuroblastoma cases

The method also reduces radiation doses and eliminates the need for sedation or general anesthesia.

Odds of late-stage cancer diagnosis double when women put off annual breast cancer screening

Biennial and intermittent screening also significantly decrease rates of overall survival, a new analysis shows.

The Society of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance (SCMR) recently launched HeartMRI.org, which provides includes a general information and videos for patients and referring physicians.

SCMR launches cardiac MRI educational video to assist referring physicians

The Society of Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance launched a new website aimed at patients and referring physicians that includes pamphlets and videos on cardiac MRI.

Startup Prenuvo to park ‘luxury’ whole-body MRI truck on Canadian border amid regulatory challenges

Despite amassing a wait list of 10,000 individuals, the company has confronted “significant barriers due to restrictions on private imaging services in Ontario.”

FDA issues guidance to help imaging providers comply with new mammography requirements

Beginning September 10, breast imaging facilities will be required to notify patients about the density of their breasts, among other regulatory changes.

Siemens Healthineers to acquire Novartis imaging unit for over $223M

The Swiss pharmaceutical firm operates Europe’s second largest network of cyclotrons, used to manufacture radioactive compounds needed for PET scans.

CMS could increase CCTA payments—the American College of Cardiology wants to help

CMS wants feedback after proposing a significant update to CCTA reimbursement payments. The American College of Cardiology, a longtime champion for improved cardiac CT payments, is now helping its members make their voices heard.

Medical Imaging

Mechanical thrombectomy beats anticoagulation alone in STORM-PE

Medicare MRI reimbursement has plummeted 77% since 2003, when adjusting for inflation

Fewer radiologists are interpreting breast imaging exams, with key workforce implications

Experts caution patients on the dangers of boutique fetal ultrasounds

Rural hospitals band together to offer MRI services