Digital x-ray fluoroscopy has FDA approval
Cardiac Mariners Inc. (Los Gatos, CA) has received clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its low-dose x-ray imaging system for fluoroscopic applications. Unlike conventional fluoroscopy, which produces two-dimensional shadowgram images, the scanning-beam digital x-ray technology provides a direct digital image that is essentially scatter-free. The technique gives physicians better visibility of small low-contrast objects within the human body. Enhanced visibility of these features is becoming more critical as interventional cardiology devices grow thinner and more flexible. The Cardiac Mariners technology also significantly reduces the radiation exposure of physicians, patients, and medical staff during lengthy procedures.