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July 17, 2012

THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY PILOT STUDY FINDS TOSHIBA’S ULTRASOUND TECHNOLOGY HELPS IMPROVE BREAST MICROCALCIFICATION VISUALIZATION

Study Shows MicroPure Image Processing Technique Identifies More Breast Microcalcifications Than Gray Scale Ultrasound Imaging

 TUSTIN, Calif., July 17, 2012 – The Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine has published a pilot study conducted at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pa., with funding provided by Toshiba, that explores the effectiveness of Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.’s MicroPure^TM image processing technique in visualizing breast microcalcifications compared with gray scale ultrasound imaging. According to the pilot study, Toshiba’s MicroPure software significantly improved identification of microcalcifications in the breast when compared with gray scale ultrasound imaging.

“MicroPure may have the potential to assist in the early detection of small specks of mineral deposits (calcium) associated with extra cell activity, allowing physicians to monitor changes,” said Dr. Flemming Forsberg, Ph.D., professor of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University. “The results of the study are particularly important, as they show the potential to utilize ultrasound imaging in identifying breast microcalcifications, which is less expensive and more comfortable for women.”

The study included women with breast calcifications, originally identified by mammography, who were then evaluated using Toshiba’s MicroPure software on the Aplio^TM XG ultrasound system compared with gray scale ultrasound imaging. Toshiba’s MicroPure enabled physicians to more easily visualize microcalcifications using ultrasound.

“This study is an example of Toshiba’s commitment in developing the latest diagnostic imaging technology to improve diagnoses,” said Tomohiro Hasegawa, director, Ultrasound Business Unit, Toshiba. “As a result of this study, Thomas Jefferson University demonstrated the potential of MicroPure’s ability to visualize microcalcifications that were not as visible in gray scale ultrasound imaging.” 

For additional information on the study, please visit the Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine.

About Toshiba America Medical Systems, Inc.

With headquarters in Tustin, Calif., Toshiba America Medical Systems (TAMS) markets, sells, distributes and services diagnostic imaging systems, and coordinates clinical diagnostic imaging research for all modalities in the United States. For more information, visit the TAMS website at www.medical.toshiba.com.

About Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation

Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation is a leading worldwide provider of medical diagnostic imaging systems and comprehensive medical solutions, such as CT, X-ray and vascular, ultrasound, nuclear medicine and MRI systems, as well as information systems for medical institutions. Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation has been providing medical products for over 80 years. Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Toshiba.

About Toshiba

Toshiba is a world-leading diversified manufacturer, solutions provider and marketer of advanced electronic and electrical products and systems. Toshiba Group brings innovation and imagination to a wide range of businesses: digital products, including LCD TVs, notebook PCs, retail solutions and MFPs; electronic devices, including semiconductors, storage products and materials; industrial and social infrastructure systems, including power generation systems, smart community solutions, medical systems and escalators & elevators; and home appliances.

Toshiba was founded in 1875, and today operates a global network of more than 550 consolidated companies, with 202,000 employees worldwide and annual sales surpassing 6.1 trillion yen (US$74 billion). Visit Toshiba’s website at www.toshiba.co.jp/index.htm.