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Breast Cancer Awareness Month Kicks Off Now: The Latest in Breast Cancer Studies

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time when individuals and organizations around the world unite to raise awareness about one of the most prevalent and potentially life-threatening diseases affecting women and, in some cases, men. Throughout this month, campaigns, events, and educational initiatives aim to promote early detection, support those impacted by breast cancer, and advance research efforts. In this article, we will delve into the latest news and developments in the field of breast cancer awareness and research, highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat this disease and improve the lives of those affected by it.

Migraine and Breast Cancer: Is There a Link?

Migraine, a debilitating neurological disorder affecting 14-15% of the global population, has been associated with various health risks, including stroke, high blood pressure, epilepsy, tinnitus, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Recent research has explored a potential link between migraines and breast cancer, both influenced by estrogen levels. While some studies suggest a higher breast cancer risk in individuals with migraines, others indicate the opposite or mixed results.

A study by researchers from the Cancer Center at West China Hospital of Sichuan University in China delved into this connection, utilizing genetic data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Their Mendelian randomization analysis revealed that women with any type of migraine face an increased risk of overall breast cancer and estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer. Notably, women experiencing migraine headaches without aura showed a heightened risk of ER-negative breast cancer, with suggestive associations for overall breast cancer risk.

However, medical experts caution that this study is retrospective and associative, requiring replication in diverse populations to establish a causal relationship. The degree of increased risk is relatively small compared to other genetic factors influencing breast cancer risk. Nevertheless, this research opens the door to future investigations into the complex interplay between migraines, genetics, and breast cancer, shedding light on potential contributors to this disease.

Are Older Women At Risk for Overdiagnosis?

A study involving 54,635 women aged 70 and older found that continuing breast cancer screening after age 70 carries a significant risk of overdiagnosis, which is the detection and treatment of cancers that would not have caused harm in a person’s lifetime. Over 80% of women aged 70-84 and over 60% of women aged 85 and older continued screening. The study showed that overdiagnosis estimates ranged from 31% of breast cancer cases in the 70-74 age group to 54% in the 85 and older group. However, there was no statistically significant reduction in breast cancer-specific death associated with screening in any age group. Overdiagnosis was primarily driven by detecting in situ and localized invasive breast cancer, not advanced cases. The study emphasizes the importance of considering patient preferences, risk tolerance, comfort with uncertainty, and willingness to undergo treatment when making screening decisions for older women. The study’s limitations include the potential misclassification of diagnostic mammograms as screening and the inability to adjust for certain breast cancer risk factors.

Vesta Teleradiology: Mammogram Interpretations, Day and Night

In conclusion, as healthcare practices navigate the intricacies of mammogram interpretations, our company is here to provide unwavering support. We understand the importance of accurate diagnoses in breast health, which is why our dedicated team is available day and night, even during holidays, to assist healthcare professionals. Your commitment to patient care is our priority, and we’re here to ensure that you have the expertise and assistance you need for precise mammogram interpretations.

A Tale of Two Studies: Are Doctors Fulfilling too Many Imaging Requests?

A recent qualitative study aimed to investigate the factors influencing general practitioners’ (GPs) decisions to fulfill patient requests for imaging studies during clinical consultations. Ten GPs from private medical centers in Northwest Sydney were interviewed, and their perspectives were analyzed through content analysis. On the other side of the spectrum, we explore an American study that reveals the importance of encouraging more people to undergo screenings.

Patient Imaging Requests

The study revealed six key themes that emerged from the interviews regarding GPs fulfilling patient imaging requests:

Patient Expectations: Patients’ desires and expectations played a significant role in GPs’ decisions to fulfill imaging requests. Some patients expected certain tests due to their health concerns or beliefs.

‘Therapeutic Scans’: GPs recognized that some patients viewed imaging scans as a form of reassurance or therapeutic action. This influenced GPs to fulfill requests to alleviate patient anxiety.

“I find X-rays have become a therapeutic requirement, [and] that their [patients’] problem often dissipates once the request is given. (Female, 40)”

‘Impressive Labels’: The use of serious-sounding terms in imaging reports contributed to patients’ perception of the severity of their condition. This, in turn, led to increased requests for such scans.

Entitlement: Some patients exhibited an attitude of entitlement, expecting imaging scans without sufficient medical justification. GPs were more likely to decline such requests, especially during initial visits.

Defensive Medicine: GPs expressed concerns about potential legal repercussions if they refused imaging requests. Fear of litigation influenced GPs to fulfill requests to avoid legal issues.

‘New Patients’: GPs were cautious about fulfilling imaging requests from new patients, as they needed time to establish trust and assess the necessity of the requested scans.

The study concluded that GPs faced challenges in balancing their role as gatekeepers of imaging with patient expectations. Clear guidelines, patient education, and GP training were suggested as potential strategies to manage patient expectations and provide appropriate care. The study sheds light on the complexities of patient-GP interactions regarding imaging requests and highlights the need for evidence-based strategies to navigate these challenges. The study was conducted within the Australian Medicare system, where medical imaging is relatively accessible and affordable, and the findings contribute to understanding the dynamics of patient-GP interactions in this context.

Cancer Screenings Saves Millions of Years of Life

Meanwhile an American study conducted by teams from the University of Chicago, University of Michigan, and study sponsor Grail LLC estimates that Americans have gained an additional 12 million years of life due to preventive cancer screenings over the past 25 years, leading to an economic impact of around $6.5 trillion. These screenings, targeting early signs of breast, colon, cervical, and lung cancers among high-risk adults, emphasize the importance of encouraging more individuals to undergo recommended cancer checks and exploring novel screening methods. The study suggests that if all eligible individuals received current screening for these cancers, it could save an extra 3.3 million life-years and add $1.7 trillion in economic impact.

The research utilized a mathematical model to assess the impact of cancer screenings endorsed by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF). This federally authorized panel evaluates evidence for preventive medical services and provides recommendations using letter grades. Since 2010, screenings with “A” or “B” grades have been covered by most insurances without patient costs under the Affordable Care Act.

Although screenings for breast, colorectal, cervical, and lung cancers have saved millions of life-years, their full potential remains untapped. The majority of life-years saved and economic impact come from cervical cancer screening due to its early and consistent screening intervals for individuals aged 18-65. However, the study acknowledges that the availability of the HPV vaccine since 2006 could affect the future value of cervical cancer screening.

While there are validated screening tests lacking for many cancer types, decreased death rates from cancers with available screenings have contributed to the overall reduction in U.S. cancer deaths. To establish more broadly validated cancer screenings, further research is needed, potentially evaluated by the USPSTF. Novel screening tools like blood tests for multiple cancer types are in development, but AI-based tests have yet to undergo review by relevant bodies for efficacy and recommendations.

Sources:
onlinelibrary.wiley.com
michiganmedicine.org
Openai.com

Growth in Demand for Imaging Procedures Will Increase Need for Teleradiology

The healthcare market is experiencing a shift towards outpatient care, driven by reimbursement changes, pandemic effects, and patient preferences, particularly prominent in the U.S. Providers are diversifying into sub-specializations like neurology and oncology, raising the demand for advanced imaging like MRI and CT. This trend has led to increased utilization of outpatient imaging and teleradiology services.

By the NuMbers

Diagnostic imaging is becoming increasingly crucial in healthcare, with the market projected to reach $31.9bn in 2023 and grow at a 4.8% CAGR to $45.8bn in 2030. The rise is driven by chronic diseases, an aging population, and post-Covid-19 demand recovery. To meet this demand, companies are focusing on advanced and accessible technologies, such as handheld ultrasounds. About 1,949 imaging devices are in development, with 112 expected to gain approval in 2023.

According to Fortune Business Insights, in 2022, the computed tomography (CT) segment held the largest market share due to a rise in CT scan procedures and higher average pricing. For instance, OECD data for 2021 showed 84.5 million CT scan procedures in the U.S., up by 15.8% from the previous year. The growing geriatric population has also contributed to increased demand for CT scans.

Key Players

Key players include GE Healthcare, Philips, Siemens Healthineers, and more. Challenges include high equipment costs and a shortage of skilled personnel, impacting accessibility and patient care quality. Opportunities arise from the growing demand for imaging services, especially for chronic diseases, and the development of new modalities like 3D mammography and MRI-guided focused ultrasound. Emerging economies like India, China, and Brazil are pivotal, driven by rising chronic diseases. Major players like Siemens Healthineers are expanding in these markets. Additionally, teaching hospitals are increasing demand for advanced imaging methods to enhance patient care.

Your Dedicated Radiology Partner: Vesta

Partnering with Vesta as your radiology partner ensures access to accurate and timely imaging interpretations and readings for subspecialties. Whether you are an outpatient imaging center or traditional hospital, our collaboration offers a seamless and efficient experience. Trust us to be your reliable radiology partner, empowering you with the insights and tools needed for improved healthcare outcomes.

Sources:

Itnonline.com
Medicaldevices-network.com
fortunebusinessinsights.com
openai.com

Healthcare Burnout: Update for 2023

Burnout in the medical setting refers to a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion experienced by healthcare professionals. It arises from chronic and excessive stress caused by demanding work environments, long hours, high patient loads, and the emotional toll of dealing with patient suffering. Symptoms of burnout include feelings of cynicism, detachment from work, reduced sense of accomplishment, and a decline in professional performance. Burnout not only impacts the well-being of medical practitioners but can also compromise patient care and safety. It also impacts staffing at all levels in healthcare, from nurses to executives.

What’s Going on Now?

Healthcare employees nationwide have initiated strikes in their efforts to secure better pay and improved staffing conditions in their employment agreements. Additionally, resident physicians are becoming increasingly engaged in labor organizing.

burnt out — A doctor experiences burnout

According to experts, these labor trends will present ongoing challenges to health systems as facilities strive to return to pre-pandemic operations while trying to control the labor costs that escalated last year. The sector is expected to face persistent staffing shortages, particularly among nurses, due to widespread burnout and increased turnover. As a result, healthcare facilities continue to rely on expensive contract labor to fill the gaps in their workforce, even as the rates of severe COVID-19 hospitalizations decline.

Burnout in Radiologists

The “Medscape Physician Burnout & Depression Report 2023: ‘I Cry and No One Cares'” reported that 54 percent of radiologists surveyed felt burned out. Further, just 61% of radiologists said they’re happy or very happy away from work.

Recent data published in the European Journal of Radiology presents the experiences of breast radiologists with burnout during various stages of the COVID pandemic. Surprisingly, the study reveals that, at the height of COVID, many radiologists reported improvements in five out of six common stressors, such as work pace, work-life balance, caregiving responsibilities, and financial strain. However, this relief was short-lived, as patient capacity increased again, leading to a surge in workload, backlogs of studies, and a slight increase in burnout levels compared to before the pandemic.

Addressing Staffing Shortages and Burnout

Addressing burnout is crucial to maintain a healthy healthcare workforce and ensure the delivery of high-quality medical services. Strategies like promoting work-life balance, providing support and resources for stress management, and fostering a positive and supportive work culture are essential to mitigate and prevent burnout in the medical field.

Vesta Teleradiology is your reliable solution for all your healthcare facility’s radiology requirements, whether you require full-time support or coverage during nights and weekends. With over 16 years of dedicated service to diagnostic imaging centers, physician’s offices, hospitals, and other healthcare facilities, we are here to assist you. Get in touch with us today for a quick quote at 1-877-55-VESTA.

teleradiology-service — Vesta is a highly rated teleradiology service provider.

Sources:

Healthcaredive.com
Radiologybusiness.com
Beckershospitalreview.com
Healthimaging.com
Openai.com

The Role of a Pediatric Radiologist

In 2011, a large study examined the use of x-rays and other radiation imaging on children—they estimated that the average child would get more than seven radiation scans by the age of 18. No doubt, then, that the role of a pediatric radiologist is important in accurately diagnosing and treating diseases and conditions in children. Their specialized knowledge, expertise in radiation safety, and collaboration with other healthcare professionals contribute to the well-being and optimal care of pediatric patients. It’s estimated that only 3% of all radiologists in the US are pediatric radiologists, making this a small subspeciality. In this article, we will review the role and responsibilities of a pediatric radiologist.

A pediatric radiologist is a specialized medical doctor who focuses on using medical imaging techniques to diagnose and treat diseases and conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. They have expertise in interpreting and analyzing imaging studies specifically related to pediatric patients.

The role of a pediatric radiologist involves the following:

Interpreting Imaging Studies: Pediatric radiologists review and interpret various imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasounds, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and nuclear medicine scans. They analyze the images to identify abnormalities or signs of disease. If you choose to work with Vesta Teleradiology, we have US board certified radiologists that handle subspecialty preliminary and final interpretations in pediatric imaging.

Diagnosing Diseases and Conditions: By studying the imaging results, pediatric radiologists can diagnose a wide range of diseases and conditions that affect children. This can include congenital anomalies, infections, tumors, fractures, organ abnormalities, and other medical conditions.

Minimizing Radiation Exposure: Pediatric radiologists are particularly mindful of the potential risks associated with radiation exposure in children. They employ techniques and protocols that minimize the amount of radiation used during imaging procedures, ensuring the safety of young patients while still obtaining the necessary diagnostic information. For example, when appropriate, pediatric radiologists may use lead shields or aprons to protect sensitive areas of a child’s body that are not being imaged. This helps minimize unnecessary radiation exposure to healthy tissues. They also undergo specialized training in pediatric radiology, which includes radiation safety and dose optimization techniques.

Guiding Treatment Decisions: Pediatric radiologists collaborate with other healthcare professionals, including pediatricians, surgeons, and oncologists, to help guide treatment decisions. The imaging findings they provide play a crucial role in determining the most appropriate course of treatment.

Performing Image-Guided Procedures: In addition to interpreting images, pediatric radiologists may also perform image-guided procedures. These procedures can include biopsies, drainages, and minimally invasive interventions. They use imaging technology to guide their instruments and ensure precise placement.

Collaboration and Consultation: Pediatric radiologists work closely with other healthcare professionals, including referring physicians, to discuss imaging findings, provide recommendations, and answer any questions. They may also consult with pediatric subspecialists to provide further expertise in specific areas of pediatric radiology.

Overall, the role of a pediatric radiologist is vital in the accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of medical conditions affecting children. Their specialized knowledge and skills in pediatric imaging contribute to the well-being and treatment outcomes of young patients.

Sources:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16357371/

OpenAi.com

https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/average-child-may-get-7-radiation-scans-by-age-18/

Reduced Radiation Exposure in Imaging

Medical imaging is a powerful tool for diagnosing and treating medical conditions; however, it can also expose patients to excess radiation levels. Fortunately, recent technological advancements have resulted in the development of new ways to reduce radiation exposure during imaging.

Here are a few ways these advancements are helping patients receive the care they need while reducing their radiation exposure.

New Guidelines

Clinicians have always used guidelines for the use of CT scans. Still, they recently developed new guidelines for the benefit of CT scans on the head, neck, chest, and abdomen/pelvis areas of the body–especially in pediatric practice.

x-ray safety for kids — New guidelines for CT scans

Clinicians can reduce or eliminate the need for CT scans if the child is awake and alert, if the blood work is normal, and if the patient is not experiencing abdominal pain.

A study of 146 children not exposed to the excess CT scan radiation using the new guidelines showed no clinically significant missed injuries.

Smart Software

One of the most significant advancements in this area is using smart software to reduce radiation dose in computerized tomography (CT) scans. This software analyzes patient size, age, and other factors to determine the dosage necessary for an accurate scan that minimizes radiation exposure. In some cases, reducing radiation doses by up to 90 percent has been possible without any decrease in diagnostic accuracy.

Lower Radiation Levels in the New CT Machines

In addition to using innovative software to reduce doses, researchers are also looking at new technologies, such as low-dose CT machines, that can achieve similar results without any additional processing needed.

Technicians have designed these machines with unique components that limit X-ray emissions while still providing high-quality imaging. As a result, patients can receive the same level of care without worrying about unnecessary radiation exposure.

Reducing Radiation Exposure with Ultrasound

Finally, reducing radiation exposure through ultrasound technology is more progressive. For clinicians using sound waves instead of X-rays or other forms of energy, ultrasound technology can provide doctors with highly detailed imaging with no risk of exposing patients to dangerous radiation levels.

Ultrasound is an ideal option for pregnant women and children who may be more sensitive to the effects of radiation than adults.

vesta teleradiology for women's wellness centers — An ultrasound tech consults a patient

Recent advancements have made it easier for medical professionals to provide high-quality care while minimizing their patients’ exposure to harmful radiation.

With the medical profession redefining the guidelines, using low-dose scans, better x-ray machinery, and more ultrasounds, many options are now available for reducing radiation exposures during imaging procedures—all without sacrificing diagnostic accuracy or quality care.

That’s great news for anyone who needs an imaging scan but wants to ensure they’re taking steps to protect their health and safety!

Tele ICU and Tele-Critical Care Trends

Providing the highest quality of patient care remains a primary goal for most doctors and medical professionals. That’s why technologies that allow virtual options are used more and more throughout the healthcare industry. A 2021 research study by Pew Research Center revealed 93% of Americans use the Internet in their homes, which shows the usefulness that virtual medical care for less serious patient needs can provide.

These technological advancements are available in more serious cases as well. Doctors and specialists no longer need to travel to the hospital to provide critical care with Tele-ICU.

What is Tele-ICU?

The American Journal of Medicine defines Tele-ICU, or Telemedicine Intensive Care Unit, as the remote delivery of clinical (critical) care services through audiovisual conferencing technology.” Through this system, doctors can monitor their patients from a distance, allowing them to track vital signs, review medical records, and communicate with the patient’s family. This helps doctors provide more personalized care to their patients and helps them make informed decisions about the patient’s care.

Tele-ICU also helps reduce the number of visits to the hospital, as the patient can be monitored remotely, reducing the risk of infection. Through telemedicine, doctors can be alerted faster of changes in the patient’s condition, allowing them to act quickly and appropriately. Tele-ICU provides better communication between doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers, reducing miscommunications and allowing them to coordinate care more effectively.

5 Ways Telemedicine Benefits Doctors and Patients

So, why do we need tele-icu? Tele-ICU is an invaluable tool for providing better care for intensive care patients. Telemedicine as a whole is an altogether better experience for both the doctor and patients. It’s integrated into the overall care that medical providers give and in most cases is billed the same as a regular in-office visit. Here are five reasons why telemedicine is a beneficial resource:

Telemedicine allows for more efficient communication between doctors and patients, eliminating the need for lengthy office visits.
Telemedicine enables doctors to quickly and easily access medical records from any location, providing more accurate and up-to-date information to make treatment decisions.
Telemedicine enables patients to connect with specialists all over the world, allowing them to access more specialized care.
Telemedicine reduces healthcare costs by eliminating the need for travel, overnight stays, and the use of expensive medical equipment.
Telemedicine helps to reduce the spread of infectious diseases by increasing the use of remote consultations and reducing the need for face-to-face contact.

Advanced Practice Providers

The National Library of Medicine published a study on utilizing advanced practice providers or APPs, to help aid in the current physician shortage by using advanced practice providers for tele-critical and Telehealth services. Yet, even as this solution could benefit several cities without many options for a critical care provider otherwise, as well as save lives, the acceptance of such a program is not as widespread as it could be.

The pandemic pushed remote critical care to the forefront in 2020. Looking toward the future, tele-icu is expected to grow once more medical staff and hospitals decide it is a helpful way to treat their patients.

Teleradiology Companies

Vesta services partners healthcare facilities and hospitals via remote radiology interpretations. Teleradiology helps unburden facilities from the shortage of radiologists as well as assist rural hospitals who may find it difficult to find staff. Learn more about our services and how we seamlessly integrate into your workflow. Contact us today.

Diagnostic Imaging Trends: Point of Care Ultrasound – POCUS

Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) is revolutionizing the healthcare industry and changing how doctors prescribe treatment for patients. POCUS is a diagnostic tool that utilizes ultrasound imaging to diagnose, monitor, and guide treatments for medical conditions.

This technology has been around for decades but is presently utilized more broadly throughout the healthcare system. Let’s take a closer look at POCUS and how it transforms patient care.

What Is Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS)?

Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is an ultrasound-based diagnostic tool used in clinical settings that uses sound waves to create images allowing doctors to see inside the body without having to do surgery or other invasive procedures.

POCUS can detect various medical conditions, such as heart defects, abdominal diseases, vascular diseases, musculoskeletal problems, and gynecological issues. POCUS can also be used in emergency settings to assess a patient’s condition quickly and determine if further intervention or testing is needed.

How Is Point of Care Ultrasound Transforming Healthcare?

One benefit of POCUS is its cost-effectiveness compared with other imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, and POCUS does not require expensive equipment as those tests do.

Additionally, it can be done quickly and easily at the point of care, which reduces wait times for patients and increases accuracy in diagnosis, as well as reduces unnecessary treatments or hospital admissions. Furthermore, since it does not use radiation as other imaging tests do, there are no additional health risks associated with this technology, making it safer overall for patients.

Another advantage of POCUS is its ability to provide real-time data about a patient’s condition, which helps doctors make more informed decisions about treatment plans for their patients.

Additionally, because POCUS used in most circumstances does not require special training or expensive equipment, these systems are becoming increasingly available in low-resource areas where access to traditional diagnostic imaging may be limited. This benefit means more people have access to high-quality healthcare regardless of where they live or available resources.

The Gates Foundation recently provided financing to bring 1,000 handheld ultrasound devices to Africa. When low to mid-income nations can improve the accuracy of an efficient diagnosis–local doctors can save more lives.

Since 2012, however, emergency medicine program accreditation requires competency in POCUS. Competency assessment in this field includes demonstrations of technical skill and how it relates to the specific clinical practice.

Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) offers numerous benefits over traditional imaging tests. Its cost-effectiveness allows physicians to provide accurate diagnoses without breaking the bank. In contrast, its portability allows it to reach underserved populations who may not otherwise have access to quality healthcare services.

With further advances in technology coming soon, we could see even more widespread use of this powerful diagnostic tool across all areas of medicine in the near future.

Vesta Teleradiology: At the Forefront of Medical Technology

Vesta believes it is crucial to stay on top of technological trends that can benefit our hospital and healthcare facility partners. Vesta is always at the forefront of technological advances in order to help bring more efficiency and accuracy to imaging and radiological interpretations. For more information about Vesta’s teleradiology services, please contact us today.

The Role of 3D Printing in Radiology

3D printing is an incredible technological tool both in and out of the medical world. Fortunately, this revolutionary technology has opened up an entirely new realm of possibilities for medical professionals to better their patient’s care.

Why Is 3D Printing Important To Medical Professionals?

3D printing has enabled doctors to create models of patients’ organs, tissues, and bones that can show the precise image of the patient’s anatomy, enabling them to make more thorough and accurate diagnoses. This means that diseases can be caught faster, leading to a higher percentage rate of positive outcomes.

These models are helpful to ensure quality by using test treatments on a physical model before trying them on a patient. This can help to reduce the risk of adverse reactions and ensure that the treatment is as effective as possible. In addition, 3D printing can be used to create prosthetic limbs, allowing patients to receive a personalized prosthesis that is custom fit to their body.

Finally, 3D printing is being used to create custom medical implants. Medical implants are used to replace missing or damaged tissue. They are typically made of titanium or other materials, but 3D printing has enabled medical professionals to create custom implants that are specifically designed for each patient. This has improved patient outcomes and allowed doctors to create implants that are more effective than ever before.

3D Printing In Radiology

In an interview for the American College of Radiology, Kenneth C. Wang, MD, Ph.D. said, “the benefit of printing comes from the patient-specific nature of what is depicted. And that almost always starts with imaging. That’s why we, as radiologists, are so well positioned to be at the center of these workflows. We can use our deep understanding of imaging modalities, anatomy, and disease to create models, interpret findings and also to know the limitations of the images, and communicate with other providers.”

3D printing has become an increasingly common and useful tool for radiologists. Because it can be used to create customized models of organs, bones, and other body parts, it gives radiologists a better visualization and understanding of medical conditions that couldn’t be seen before. The in-depth imaging 3D printing provides can also be used to create medical implants, such as scaffolds for bone regeneration and customized joint replacements.

3D-printed models of organs can be used to practice minimally invasive procedures and to create guides for surgeons to follow during operations.

This will help with medical education, allowing students and radiologists to visualize the anatomy and better understand medical conditions. Finally, 3D printing can be used to create patient-specific medical devices, such as hearing aids and prosthetics, to customize them and make them more comfortable for patients.

Conclusion

Overall, 3D printing has revolutionized the world of radiology. It has allowed medical professionals to make more precise and accurate diagnoses, create custom medical devices, create models of organs, tissues, and bones, and create custom medical implants. This technology has enabled doctors to provide better patient care and has improved patient outcomes. With this kind of technology coupled with Artificial Intelligence, the sky is the limit.

Vesta Teleradiology is always looking to new technologies to improve our operations and further assist our clients in accurate and quick interpretations. Please reach out to us to learn about how we customize the process for your healthcare facility’s needs.

The Future of Radiology with 5G

If you’ve been to the doctor’s office, hospital, or any healthcare building recently, you might have noticed an upgrade in technology. Instead of a sign-in sheet, you may have been handed a fingerprint scanner. In lieu of a paper and pen, a nurse may have an iPad or desktop computer to take your medical history. For years, medical offices around the country have already had an online scheduling and note-taking system, so it may not come as a surprise that innovations have reached their way to medical imaging and radiology. 5G technology has made vast improvements in the medical space since 2018, says Imaging Technology News, and will continue to make waves, globally, for years to come.

Advancements with 5G

Ultrasound and telehealth technology has advanced this year with 5G technology, particularly with people who live in remote locations without easy access to hospitals, says Radiology Business. 5G connectivity makes transmission of 4K images and ultrasound images much more efficient and clearer than LTE technology, says the article. Patients who need appointments or images read by medical professionals are able to receive the care they need through telehealth services and remarkably clearer images. In addition to this, 5G technology has helped remotely train the practitioners, who were not radiologists, to take the ultrasound examinations. Having a wider pool of practitioners to perform these tasks is proof that 5G has a promising future in the healthcare community.

Another advancement brought about by 5G technology is biomedical devices, says Applied Sciences. When a patient has an implantable and wearable biomedical device with wireless communication technology, doctors are able to have updates and treatments in real time for those in their care. These devices gather data from sick patients and instantly transmit the progress to a doctor to be checked, remotely. Because of the reliability of a 5G network, life supporting devices are able to work quickly, and without complications of interruption. According to the article, developing the “self-health” systems aided by 5G technology will be critical for the lack of healthcare workers we will experience by 2035.

Looking ahead, Imaging Technology News predicts the 5G networks could be the “catalyst towards smart hospitals;” a center of streamlined systems and information that efficiently carries through the patient experience. Some of those concepts, says the article, includes a smart scheduling system, facial recognition or fingerprint scanners, and multiple imaging transfers between medical professionals. Importantly, too, 5G networks will enable “crosstalk” between medical devices, monitoring devices, and medical records, creating one, integrated system.

There are a lot of predictions about our healthcare system due to so many changes in our world today amidst the COVID, flu, RSV, healthcare worker shortage, and so many other variables. But, here, there is proof of a silver lining. Technology has made it possible to reroute some of these fears and bring some light to some dark statistics. We are on the precipice of new and big developments in our healthcare systems. The future is here and we are excited. Click here to learn more about Vesta’s partnership with MIT for artificial intelligence research.