Competing MRI manufacturers contend that unique diagnostic information is rarely captured in an upright scan. However, Dr. Damadian said about a dozen studies seem to suggest otherwise.
In a yet-to-be-published study by researchers at the University of Aberdeen (Scotland), roughly one in five patients with low back pain and sciatica had evidence of slippages of the spine that were only visible when the patient was imaged standing up, Dr. Damadian said.
Dr. Khan, who is working in association with researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, will release information later this year from a series of studies in approximately 800 asymptomatic patients whose spines were assessed in a variety of positions with upright MR imaging.
Still, Dr. Damadian admits a more comprehensive study is needed before physicians would accept upright imaging as the new standard.
There are now more than 70 Upright MRI machines installed worldwide, up from just 18 scanners in mid-2003. Sales revenues are up 190%, from $6.1 million in the first quarter of last year to $17.7 million in the quarter just ended.
One indication of the inroads the technology has made is an agreement with GE Healthcare that allows its salespeople to sell Fonar's Upright MRI scanner.
Although only a few have been sold this way, the agreement enables GE to offer a “total breadth” of products and services to its customers, said Ron Petcheny, GE product sales manager for open-segment MRI scanners.
The conventional recumbent scan shows no evidence of bladder or uterine prolapse.
In a vertical scan, bladder or uterine prolapse is seen as these organs descend relative to the pubococcygeal line. Photos Courtesy Melville MRI, P.C./Fonar
In a patient with central spinal stenosis, a scan made in a recumbent position shows spondylolisthesis at L4 and L5.
This upright flexion scan shows a further anterior shift of L4 and L5 and more severe spinal canal stenosis.
This upright extension scan shows a comparative posterior shift of L4 and L5. Photos Courtesy Melville MRI, P.C./Fonar