For more than three decades various forms of robotics have been effectively applied in healthcare to advance different types of medical treatment and surgical processes. Now, the nation’s first robotic positioning arm for proton therapy is being used by Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) to provide physicians improved access to tumors typically regarded as difficult to reach and treat.

The American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) released a list of five interventions whose appropriateness physicians and patients should discuss as part of Choosing Wisely, an initiative of the ABIM Foundation, along with Consumer Reports. Third in the list, they ask that patients and their doctors talk about the real need for an echocardiogram when preparing for a surgery.

The LumaGEM Molecular Breast Imaging (MBI) business of Gamma Medica Inc. has been acquired through a chapter 11 sale by Imaging Acquisition Inc., an entity controlled by healthcare growth equity firm Psilos Group Managers LLC. Molecular breast imaging is an adjunct technology to mammography which radiologists use to help diagnose cancerous lesions in women with dense breast tissue. Already used in 15 prestigious medical institutions and clinical practices throughout the United States, the acquisition and investment by Psilos will enable the more focused company to meet the rapidly growing demand for LumaGEM.

The Medical Imaging and Technology Alliance (MITA), Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed) and the Medical Device Manufacturers Association (MDMA) applauded the adoption of an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2014 Senate Budget Resolution that expresses support for repeal of the medical device tax.