ContextVision Unveils First Real-time Volumetric Ultrasound Image Enhancement Tool

STOCKHOLM, Sweden – April 1, 2009 – At the 2009 American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) Annual Convention today, ContextVision, the software imaging partner for the most recognized medical imaging manufacturers worldwide, introduces GOPiCE® US, the first real-time volumetric filtering software for ultrasound. The image enhancement product filters the three-dimensional ultrasound volumes, removing speckle and other artifacts, while simultaneously extends the clinician’s vision to planes previously hidden.

GOPiCE offers clinicians the ability to see areas never seen before, such as the regions of the fetal brain previously hidden by speckle and noise in two-dimensional and unenhanced three-dimensional ultrasound images. The unprecedented visualization achieved using GOPiCE will ultimately lead to improved diagnostic value. Additionally, GOPiCE minimizes processing time: it leverages the speed of graphics processing units (GPUs), processing up to 24 volumes per second at 128x128x128 pixels or 40 volumes in single planar reconstruction mode.

“Until now, ultrasound technologies have limited our ability to thoroughly assess an image,” said Prof. Anders Selbing. “GOPiCE delivers the capability to see past the noise in an image by providing real-time volumetric filtering. Ultimately, the image enhancement technology allows us to offer patients a greater value.”

“ContextVision strives to consistently deliver the latest in cutting-edge image enhancement technology,” said Jan Erik Hedborg, CEO of ContextVision. “Our new volumetric, or 3D, ultrasound capability captures a level of diagnostic medical information not previously possible with traditional 2D techniques. By filtering the images to remove foreign artifacts, the new software enhances the three-dimensional ultrasound volumes while simultaneously sharpening diagnostically significant structures.”

Like all ContextVision products, GOPiCE® US relies on an adaptive algorithm, GOP®, which mimics the human eye’s method of finding information and analyzing structures. This enables the software to distinguish between true and false information (e.g. noise, artifacts) and accurately identify true structures. Visit www.contextvision.com to download a product sheet.

For inquires please contact CEO Jan Erik Hedborg, tel 46 8 750 35 59