Buyer's Guide Update: Hybrid imaging drives molecular imaging

Jul 6, 2008

Dear Buyer's Guide Update Member,

Interest in hybrid imaging -- combining data from multiple modalities such as CT and PET -- is driving renewed interest in molecular imaging and nuclear medicine.

For example, PET/CT has such obvious value in combining anatomical and functional data that there is almost no demand any longer for dedicated PET systems in the U.S. market. While SPECT/CT is taking longer to catch on, this combined modality also is gaining momentum. Industry observers see even more exotic hybrid systems on the horizon, as vendors pursue combinations such as PET/MRI.

But against this backdrop are serious concerns about the future of molecular imaging and nuclear medicine. The discipline has always relied on research funding as the impetus for future product development, and budget cuts in the U.S. could have a major impact that may not be seen for another 15-20 years.

Until that time, you can see products that are available now in this edition of the Buyer's Guide Update newsletter, including the following categories:

You can also find handy product comparison charts for the product categories below:

Check out any of the links above for a comprehensive list of products and services in each category, or for a sample take a look at any of the links below.

Coming up in August, our focus will be on computer-aided detection (CAD) software. If you're a vendor and would like to update your Buyer's Guide listings, just send an e-mail to [email protected] to get started.