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.

GE HealthCare launches new cardiac CT scanner with advanced AI capabilities
GE HealthCare designed the new-look Revolution Vibe CT scanner to help hospitals and health systems embrace CCTA and improve overall efficiency.
Many CT techs unprepared to manage adverse contrast reactions
Though rare, some reactions can be life-threatening, making the understanding of how to appropriately manage them a critical aspect of a technologist's responsibilities.
Percutaneous transthoracic core needle biopsy: 3 factors that influence procedural success
A new analysis in Clinical Radiology is intended to help guide interventional radiologists in their decision-making processes regarding PCNB to reduce the likelihood of diagnostic failure.
New scanners and strategies for the ‘golden age of CCTA’
As coronary CT angiography (CCTA) continues its rapid expansion, scanner vendors are now offering more economical solutions to ensure access to imaging technology beyond premium systems most often only found at flagship hospitals and academic centers. To conquer CCTA’s technical challenges, new technologies and AI are being incorporated into a new scanner to simplify acquisition and consistently improve image quality.
Ultralow-dose CT aids in diagnosing pneumonia among immunocompromised patients
In a prospective study involving 54 adults, ultralow-dose CT, denoised with deep learning, “substantially” cut radiation exposure while accurately detecting pneumonia.

Negative CT-PA scans could increase time-to-disposition in patients seen for pulmonary embolism

Patient and environmental factors proved not to be major culprits but scan results were key, experts reported in BMC Emergency Medicine.

FDA clears first major upgrade to CT technology in nearly a decade

The new imaging devices utilize a fast-emerging technology known as photon counting and can enhance everything from diagnostic decision making to treatment planning.

More than 17% of emergency CTA results forced radiologists to break normal chain of communication

Yale physicians analyzed more than 700,000 visits from 236,000 patients for their results, shared in the American Journal of Roentgenology.

Ultra-high-resolution CTA accurately assesses severely calcified vessels, overcoming CT’s limitations

The technique notched high image quality scores while detecting stenosis with 86% sensitivity and 88% specificity, Johns Hopkins researchers reported.

Artificial intelligence specialist wins FDA clearance for brain injury CT software

Clinicians can use the tool to automatically quantify, outline and measure brain abnormalities during emergency situations.

Radiologists investigate learning curve for performing CT-guided thoracic biopsies

One study found rads who performed fewer than 100 percutaneous transthoracic procedures had more than double the risk of false negatives.

Routine CT scans offer radiologists opportunity to detect costly bone problems

A Mount Sinai School of Medicine-led team said such scans should be used to spot possible osteoporosis.

CMS renews payment coverage for Viz.ai’s stroke CT platform

The San Francisco-based AI vendor said CMS evaluated other companies, but only chose to renew reimbursement for Viz LVO due to "strong clinical outcomes."

Around the web

Cardiovascular Business

GE HealthCare launches new cardiac CT scanner with advanced AI capabilities

GE HealthCare designed the new-look Revolution Vibe CT scanner to help hospitals and health systems embrace CCTA and improve overall efficiency.

Cardiovascular Business

Bracco updates HeartSee coronary flow capacity software with new diagnostic features

Clinicians have been using HeartSee to diagnose and treat coronary artery disease since the technology first debuted back in 2018. These latest updates, set to roll out to existing users, are designed to improve diagnostic performance and user access.

Cardiovascular Business

Key trends in diagnostic heart testing: CT on the rise as some traditional techniques fall out of favor

The cardiac technologies clinicians use for CVD evaluations have changed significantly in recent years, according to a new analysis of CMS data. While some modalities are on the rise, others are being utilized much less than ever before.