January 31, 2011 – An oncology systems provider has launched The Year of Radiotherapy, an initiative to raise awareness of radiotherapy as a cost-effective, cutting-edge treatment that can help cure cancer. Oncology Systems Limited (OSL) launched the program in response to data from Cancer Research UK.

January 31, 2011 – A patient-specific cranial immobilization system has received the CE mark. The Fraxion head frame, by Elekta, helps ensure accuracy and precision in stereotactic radiation therapy of cancer targets in the brain and cranium. The Fraxion is the first to integrate all proven cranial immobilization options in a single system.

January 27, 2011 – Varian Medical Systems has entered into a three-year, $450 million contract with Toshiba Medical Systems. Under the agreement, Varian will supply medical imaging subcomponents to Toshiba for integration into its diagnostic imaging equipment.

January 26, 2011 – An upgraded version of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) perfusion software is now available. The upgrade to IB Neuro, from Imaging Biometrics, offers several features that help facilitate personalized care for patients with brain disorders as well as increase the productivity of busy healthcare facilities.

January 24, 2011 – Lantheus Medical Imaging has entered into a contract with Novation for Ablavar (gadofosveset trisodium) and Definity Vial for Injectable Suspension (Perflutren Lipid Microsphere). The agreement will provide increased access to the diagnostic imaging agents for healthcare providers served by Novation.

January 24, 2011 – A U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) panel voted unanimously last week to recommend the clearance of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agent to detect and visualize areas with disrupted blood brain barrier and/or abnormal vascularity of the central nervous system (CNS).