Alara \ a-`lar-a \ n, often attrib [as low as reasonably achievable] term coined to regulate allowable amount of radiation dose in x-ray images.

Alara, Inc. was formed in 1994 as DenOptix, Inc. to develop instrumentation capable of generating high quality digital images using storage phosphor technology (SPT) in the offices of dentists and private practice physicians. Its name was changed to Alara, Inc. in 1996 and has introduced its DenOptix(tm) Digital Imaging System for dental imaging and the Alara MetriScan(tm) for the assessment of osteoporosis.

In 1994, SPT was being used to replace film in the radiology departments of leading medical centers. But these systems cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Alara developed (and patented) a far less expensive way of using SPT, while still getting superb resolution and excellent reliability. This patented technology is the basis of the DenOptix and MetriScan Systems.

DenOptix is now used by thousands of dental professionals worldwide. These professionals, ranging from general practice dentists, to orthodontists and other specialists, participated in an independent study that compared DenOptix to competitive products. The results indicated that 87 percent of users would purchase DenOptix again, compared to an average 48 percent repurchase rate for products of other manufacturers. Alara has also achieved a superb quality record with DenOptix. Of the thousands of systems installed in dental practices, fewer than two percent have required repair.

In the fall of 1997, Alara signed an agreement giving exclusive distribution rights of the DenOptix System to GENDEX, a subsidiary of Dentsply International. Alara remains the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) of DenOptix.

As knowledge of the impact of osteoporosis on the aging population grew, the need for early detection became apparent. The result was the Alara MetriScan, a device that uses SPT to estimate the bone density of the fingers, an indicator of osteoporosis and fracture risk. The Alara MetriScan stands alone in its niche in the BMD market as the only product using SPT.

The Alara MetriScan received its 510(k) clearance from the FDA in May 2000. The MetriScan is indicated for use in estimating relative BMD. Physicians use the BMD along with the patient's T-score, the industry standard predictive indicator of risk for developing osteoporotic fractures, as an aid in assessing fracture risk. Additionally, the Alara MetriScan is cleared for use to monitor changes in bone mass over time, giving physicians a tool to monitor the effects of prescription drug therapy and alter treatment as needed.

In May 2002, Alara acquired all of the physical and intellectual assets of Phormax, Inc. of Sunnyvale, California. Included in these assets is the CRView™ an FDA-cleared computed radiography device capable of reading storage phosphor imaging plates ranging in size up to 14 x 17 inches in one minute or less. The CRView is an affordable system that should make the many advantages of digital radiology widely available in the practice of diagnostic radiology.

In 1999 DenOptix was honored with a Silver Award for Medical & Scientific Products by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA) and BusinessWeek in their annual competition. Criteria for the award include design innovation, benefit to users and ecological responsibility as well as aesthetics and appeal. MetriScan received an even higher accolade by winning a Gold Medal in the same category in 2001 and was hailed for its simple and ergonomic design.

More information about Alara and its digital radiology products can be obtained at www.alara.com.

ALARA INC
2545 Barrington Court
Hayward
CA 94545
USA

Tel: 001 510 265 6269
Fax: 001 510 723 0111
Email: Jstorm@alara.com

 

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