Abstract: A method and apparatus for imaging a patient is provided. The method includes receiving patient information, automatically selecting an imaging protocol based on the received information, and performing an imaging scan of the patient using the automatically selected imaging protocol.

Abstract: A method for correcting emission data from Positron Emission Tomography (PET) or SPECT includes generating a plurality of computed tomography (CT) image data, selecting a portion of the CT image data, processing the selected CT data to generate a plurality of attenuation correction (CTAC) factors at the appropriate energy of the emission data, weighting the CTAC factors to generate an emission attenuation correction map wherein the weights are determined based on the axial location and the slice thickness of the CT data and the axial location and the slice thickness of the PET or SPECT data, and utilizing the generated attenuation correction map to generate an attenuation corrected PET image.

Abstract: A system for providing remote service to medical diagnostic systems is described that includes a field service unit connectable to an automated service facility via a network link. The field service unit is configured to compose service requests based upon a series or menu of predefined service modules or functions. The service request includes identification of a diagnostic system or facility of interest. The request is communicated to the automated service facility which verifies the request and executes the requested function. Data may be gathered from the diagnostic system or institution as well as from service databases. Results of the service operation are automatically transmitted to the requesting service unit.

Abstract: A system for providing remote service to medical diagnostic systems is described that includes a field service unit connectable to an automated service facility via a network link. The field service unit is configured to compose service requests based upon a series or menu of predefined service modules or functions. The service request includes identification of a diagnostic system or facility of interest. The request is communicated to the automated service facility which verifies the request and executes the requested function. Data may be gathered from the diagnostic system or institution as well as from service databases. Results of the service operation are automatically transmitted to the requesting service unit.

Abstract: Possible failure of x-ray tubes is predicted by monitoring and analysis of operating parameters considered leading indicators of failure. Historical data for a tube population is analyzed by discriminant analysis to develop a failure prediction algorithm. The algorithm is used to correlate operating parameters, or values derived from the operating parameters with a potential for tube failure. The operating parameters may include anode overcurrent events and spits, or spit rate exceeded errors for a diagnostic system in which the x-ray tube is installed.

Abstract: A technique is disclosed for providing remote service to medical diagnostic systems via a centralized service facility. The service facility is configured to receive service requests from diagnostic systems of different modalities, type, location, and so forth. The service requests are handled by one or more servers, and are directed to work stations or technicians for addressing the service requests. The work stations or technicians are selected in accordance with the modality of the diagnostic system as identified by the service request. A subscription status check may be performed for verifying the service arrangements between the requesting diagnostic systems and the centralized service facility. Reply messages are transmitted from the service facility to the requesting diagnostic systems in response to the service requests, providing interactive service exchange between the facility and the diagnostic systems.

Abstract: A system for managing replacement of x-ray tubes, such as in medical diagnostic systems, includes circuitry for monitoring operating parameters of the x-ray tubes, and circuitry for analyzing the monitored parameters and scheduling for tube replacement based upon predicted failure. The scheduling circuitry may be located in a remote service center and is linked to the diagnostic systems via a network connection. A failure prediction circuit may be located at the remote service center or local to the diagnostic system. Upon identifying a predicted tube failure, replacement of the tube is scheduled and shipment of a replacement tube is ordered. Service personnel may be notified automatically to coordinate tube replacement. Electronic messages may be transmitted to the service personnel and to personnel in the facility where the x-ray tube is installed to notify all parties of the scheduled tube replacement.