Varian Medical Systems, one of the world's leading manufacturer of medical devices and software,  has received 510(k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its diagnostic X-ray image processing workstation that combines radiography/fluoroscopy (RF) and digital radiography (DR) capabilities on one platform.  

Varian's Nexus DRF Digital X-Ray Imaging System has the ability to interface with a variety of image receptors, including CCD cameras and commercially available flat-panel image detectors.

"Nexus is Varian's 6th generation image processing platform," said Carl LaCasce vice president and general manager for Varian's Imaging Products business.  "It's an updated platform designed to provide our customers with a universal system that addresses both dynamic and static imaging modalities, as well as CCD camera based fluoroscopy.

The Nexus system enables an operator to acquire, display, process, transmit, export, or print high resolution X-ray images.  The advanced image processing algorithms make it possible to bring out diagnostic details that can be difficult to see using conventional imaging techniques.  The major system components include an image detector, a computer, a high resolution monitor, and Varian's proprietary image processing software.  Each system can be set up to process data from multiple receptors and detectors.

"By integrating both RF and DR capabilities on the Nexus console, we seek to provide our OEM partners with a standardized platform to optimize workflow and reduce time to market and equipment costs," adds LaCasce.  "Varian views its Nexus product as a cost effective, reliable solution to support a wide range of our customers' requirements."

Nexus builds on Varian's current i5 line of digital imaging software and workstation products, designed for installation into new or existing radiographic rooms or for use in mobile X-ray systems.   It complies fully with the provisions of the European Union's RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) law.

Varian Medical Systems, Inc., of Palo Alto, California, is the world's leading manufacturer of medical devices and software for treating cancer and other medical conditions with radiotherapy, radiosurgery, and brachytherapy. The company supplies informatics software for managing comprehensive cancer clinics, radiotherapy centers and medical oncology practices.