WILMINGTON, Mass. and SALT LAKE CITY--(BW HealthWire)--March 14, 2000--Visualization Technology, Inc. (VTI) and GE OEC Medical Systems, Inc. (GE OEC) announced today that they have signed a definitive agreement to develop intraoperative computerized navigation solutions for applications in image-guided surgery to a global market. This exclusive agreement is a long-term, sole source contract in which GE OEC takes an equity position in VTI, a privately held company. Terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.

This partnership brings together GE OEC's market leadership in intraoperative fluoroscopy with VTI's electromagnetic computerized image guidance expertise. Image-guided technologies aid surgeons in performing minimally invasive surgeries with enhanced confidence by giving them computerized visual assistance. Under this agreement, GE OEC and VTI will collaborate on solution development and worldwide distribution.

"VTI has an industry proven third generation navigation technology that can track flexible instruments and catheters. This tracking is not possible with other existing optical technology. It is VTI's success in electromagnetic tracking that will help us find breakthrough solutions to aid the healthcare industry," said Joseph W. Pepper, President and CEO of GE OEC Medical Systems. "Our strategy is to drive the evolution in intraoperative imaging. The addition of computerized Image guidance is the natural progression."

"We are pleased to work with GE OEC as their partner in image guidance," said Maurice R. Ferre, MD, President and CEO of VTI. "This agreement marks a milestone in our mission to become the global leader in all applications of image guided surgery. Teaming with the strength and market position of GE OEC Medical Systems is key to that accomplishment."

About Visualization Technology

Established in 1993, Visualization Technology is a privately held Massachusetts based manufacturer of intraoperative medical devices and related products for use in image guided surgery in the specialties of Ear, Nose & Throat, Cranial, Spine and Orthopedics. For more information, visit the company's web site at http://www.vitech.com.

About GE OEC Medical Systems

GE OEC Medical Systems is a global leader in cost-effective digital imaging solutions. Its broad product line meets the growing imaging and information requirements for patient care in conventional and minimally invasive surgery, interventional procedures and emerging medical technologies designed for a variety of healthcare settings. GE OEC is a GE Medical Systems company with global headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah.

GE Medical Systems is a $7 billion global leader in medical technology and services, employing nearly 20,000 people worldwide. For more information, visit the company's web site at http://www.gemedicalsystems.com.