Fischer Imaging Inc. this week promoted chief operating officer Steven Durnil to the additional posts of president and chief executive officer. He replaces Harris Ravine who resigned, but will stay on as a consultant to the company.
   
This announcement comes at tumultuous times for the company. Nearly one month ago a number of former executives were named in a federal fraud complaint regarding inventory accounting.
   
This shake-up also arrives just as Fischer is moving to sell intellectual property rights associated with its mammography business to Hologic Inc. The transaction is reported to total $32 million with a planned close date of late 2005.
   
Durnil will continue in his role as COO in addition to his new responsibilities. Durnil joined Fischer company in 2004 as vice president of manufacturing and supply chain.