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Medical Imaging Innovations
Laser Imagers:
The Medical Imaging business unit created the world's first laser imager in 1984. For the first
time, radiologists using a 3M™ 831 Laser imager from Imation™ could convert signals from electronic
diagnostic devices, such as CT scanners, into high-quality film images.
In 1989, the business unit introduced the Digital Imager System to produce consistent,
high-quality films from ultrasound imaging systems.
Since then the business unit has launched two additional leading-edge laser imagers. The
3M™ 952 Plus Laser Imager from Imation™ enabled radiologists to accept data from up to six different diagnostic
imaging systems. To address the industry's throughput challenges, the Medical Imaging business
unit created the 3M™ 959 XL Laser Imager from Imation™, which processed high-resolution images at 120 images
per hour, as well as simultaneous printing.
The next generation of laser imagers, starting with the 3M™ 969 HQ Laser Imager from Imation™, insured
consistent, high-quality images through the integrated Automatic Image Quality Control System.
In 1993, the Medical Imaging business unit supplemented the line with the single-modality
version 3M™ 969 HQS Laser Imager and the 3M™ 969 HQ Dual Printer from Imation™.
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DryView™Laser Imagers:
The Medical Imaging business group revolutionized imaging technology
with the 1995
introduction of the 3M™ DryView™ Laser Imaging Systems from
Imation™. This innovative technology uses a unique
film-development process that completely eliminates wet processing
chemistry. It offers radiology departments more siting flexibility, and
enables them to save money, eliminate chemical waste handling, and
increase productivity.
Imaging Films:
The Medical Imaging business unit displayed continuous innovation in
X-ray films, too. In
1973, it introduced Rare Earth imaging technology in the form of
Trimax™Rare Earth Intensifying Screens and matching films. These
reduced X-ray dosages to patients up to 50%.
Five years later, the business unit pioneered the use of
anti-crossover technology to
dramatically improve the resolution available from film-and-screen
systems. The technology was
enhanced a decade later with the Medical Imaging business unit's
development of the "J-cube"
anti-crossover emulsion, which allowed for high-resolution at
significantly faster radiologic
speeds.
Most recently, the Medical Imaging business unit introduced the
3M™ Chest
System from Imation™, which combines innovative films,
cassettes and screens to
provide high-contrast, high-resolution images in the lung area
and excellent penetration of
the mediastinum.
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