Computed Tomography

Computed tomography (CT) is a fast and accurate imaging modality often used in emergency settings and trauma imaging. CT scans, with or without (or both) iodinated contrast are frequently used to image the brain, chest, abdomen and pelvis, but also have post-imaging reconstructive capabilities for detailed orthopedic imaging. It is now a standard imaging modality in emergency rooms to quickly assess patients. CT uses a series of X-ray images shot as the gantry rotates around the patient. Computer technology assembles these into into a dataset volume than can be slices on any access, or advanced visualization software can extract specific parts of the anatomy for study. Find more content specific to cardiac CT.

pulsed radiofrequency for sciatica

Pulsed radiofrequency procedure could help patients avoid surgery for sciatica

In PRF procedures, a probe is used to intermittently apply energy directly to the dorsal root ganglia, which is often where pain and neurologic symptoms associated with sciatica originate.  

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Many U.S. websites do not reflect updated lung cancer screening guidelines

Accurate information relative to personal risk is crucial for improving uptake of low-dose CT (LDCT) lung cancer screening, but new data indicate that many websites' content on the topic is out of date. 

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Even in asymptomatic, CCTA-detected coronary artery disease increases heart attack risk

These individuals face a more than an eightfold risk for myocardial infarction, according to new findings published in the Annals of Internal Medicine

Iodine contrast being loaded into a contrast injector in preparation for a cardiac CT scan at Duly Health and Care in Lisle, Illinois. The contrast shortage is causing some healthcare organizations to postpone exams and procedures and ration contrast supplies. Photo by Dave Fornell

How to manage patients in need of contrast-enhanced imaging following an allergic-like reaction

Up to one-third or more of patients who experience moderate or severe allergic-like reactions to ICM must have their imaging protocols revised when subsequent exams involving contrast are requested.

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Is ultra low-dose CT a feasible option for identifying fractures?

Such scans offer significant reductions in radiation exposure, but there is concern that lower dosage might sacrifice image quality, causing readers to miss important findings. 

COVID-19 coronavirus

Vaccinated patients more likely to exhibit normal chest CT after COVID infection

Both vaccine status and variant type were shown to be associated with differing COVID severity and chest CT patterns. 

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Disease-specific reporting templates improve completeness, but uptake remains limited

A new paper published in Clinical Imaging details the impact of a high-resolution CT reporting template catered specifically to interstitial lung disease.

kid child pediatric MRI imaging

New data highlight inconsistencies in imaging protocols for pediatric appendicitis

Utilization of MRI for cases of suspected appendicitis in the pediatric population is beneficial, yet its use varies across institutions.

Around the web

Positron, a New York-based nuclear imaging company, will now provide Upbeat Cardiology Solutions with advanced PET/CT systems and services. 

The nuclear imaging isotope shortage of molybdenum-99 may be over now that the sidelined reactor is restarting. ASNC's president says PET and new SPECT technologies helped cardiac imaging labs better weather the storm.

CMS has more than doubled the CCTA payment rate from $175 to $357.13. The move, expected to have a significant impact on the utilization of cardiac CT, received immediate praise from imaging specialists.