Toshiba Introduces the Infinix VC-i Vascular 3-D Imaging System; New System Delivers Higher Level of Performance for Advanced 3-D Diagnostic and Interventional Procedures.

CHICAGO -- Expanding the Infinix(TM)-i series with the latest 3-D imaging technology, Toshiba America Medical Systems Inc. (TAMS) today introduced the new Infinix VC-i 3-D vascular system with the Vitrea(R) workstation. The Infinix VC-i provides a higher level of system performance with a completely new architecture based on dual PC processors and a digital network communication platform. Additionally, the new system features a high-performance X-ray image intensifier, CCD camera and dose-control options to further increase performance and flexibility.

The Infinix VC-i will be exhibited this week for healthcare professionals at the 90th Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).

"The new Infinix VC-i features a powerful workstation and advanced imaging technologies to enable 3-D visualization second to none in the industry," said Don Volz, director, Vascular X-ray Business Unit. "With the new Infinix, clinicians can image vessels one millimeter and smaller with exceptional image quality and edge detail. Additionally, Toshiba's 3-D reconstructions are 'volume' renderings, not 'surface' renderings. The Infinix VC-i delivers higher-quality images depicting the most minute anatomical details."

Advanced System Technology and Features

The Infinix VC-i 3-D is a complete vascular system designed for both diagnostic and interventional procedures. The system has a completely new architecture based on dual PC processors and enables digital network communication with all subsystem components, which provides a new level of system performance. The system supports advanced applications like 3-D Angio and an integrated suite of advanced dose-management tools that help make the working and patient environment as safe as possible. Key system features of the Infinix VC-i include:

--Flat Panel Detector(a) -- Field upgradeable at the component level to Flat Panel Detectors while providing full functionality today, including 1024x1024 imaging, DSA, unique 3-D capabilities.

--Advanced Interventional (AI) Imaging Chain -- The J-Series with "Advanced Super Metal" is a high-performance X-ray image intensifier that provides increased performance and improved uniformity.

--CCD Camera -- Toshiba's CCD technology maintains an excellent black level regardless of the dose and provides for more easily guided wire and stent visualization through a wide range of patient anatomy and densities.

--Dose Control -- The Infinix VC-i offers a wide variety of frame-rate options in both fluoro and record mode. This capability provides clinicians with greater flexibility for managing dose delivery to patients and limiting dose exposure to staff while preserving dynamic imaging capabilities for superior image quality.

--3-D Angio Package -- Includes the Vitrea(R) 2, a powerful PC-based, 3-D workstation, which enables review of vascular, computed tomography and magnetic resonance images in 3-D from the control room. Combining speed and incredibly fine detail for fast, accurate exams, the 3-D Angio system allows for improved diagnostic accuracy by viewing blood vessels one millimeter and smaller and faster review process with one-button selection for 3-D image transfer to the workstation.

--Real-Time Image Processing -- Digital image processing is applied to both fluoroscopic and radiographic image data. A dynamic pattern recognition filter (DPRF) and a dynamic digital compensation filter (DDCF) are used simultaneously to allow high definition of small devices and structures during the most demanding procedures.

--Highest 3-D Acquisition Rate for Exceptional Image Detail -- The system has the highest sampling in the industry of one frame per degree and generates artifact-free 3-D vessel imaging. The fast-spin, 200-degree arc of the C-arm generates artifact-free, 3-D reconstructions. The high frame rate (50 per second) ensures sub-millimeter anatomical detail. The floor-mounted C-arm delivers rapid, reliable, deep angulations for cardiovascular angiography. High-speed rotation and free-angle movement allow it to be quickly and reliably positioned, even at extreme angles.

--Intuitive Graphic User Interface -- The entire system can be controlled from the Graphic User Interface in the examination room. One-Touch Sequential Navigation enables system operation by exam type according to the preference of each user.

--Liquid-Metal Bearing X-Ray Tubes -- Designed to meet the toughest demands with anti-abrasion performance for a long, reliable tube life. The tubes are acoustically quiet, and their 3.0 MHU anode heat capacity virtually eliminates overheating and ensures high throughput.

For more information about the Infinix-i series of vascular X-ray systems, TAMS and its wide range of medical imaging products, please visit www.medical.toshiba.com.

About Toshiba

With headquarters in Tustin, Calif., Toshiba America Medical Systems markets, sells, distributes and services diagnostic imaging systems, and coordinates clinical diagnostic imaging research for all modalities in the United States. Toshiba Medical Systems Corp., an independent group company of Toshiba Corp., is a global leading provider of diagnostic medical imaging systems and comprehensive medical solutions, such as CT, X-ray, Ultrasound, Nuclear Medicine, MRI and information systems. Toshiba Corp. is a leader in information and communications systems, electronic components, consumer products, and power systems. Toshiba has 161,000 employees worldwide and annual sales of more than $53 billion.

Note to Editors: Infinix(TM) is a trademark of Toshiba Medical Systems Corp.

(a) Works-in-progress