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.

AI-based software improves follow-up imaging adherence by 74%

The increased follow-up of recommended imaging exams combined with the efficiency of its use also generated an additional $9,000 in revenue per month at one organization.

Radiologists divided on which CT quality measures are most important

The unique preferences of different readers highlight a need for more quantitative measures of quality specific to subspecialties.

New Category I CPT code issued for AI-enabled coronary plaque analysis software

The news comes just days after CMS confirmed these technologies would start receiving expanded Medicare coverage in November. HeartFlow and other AI vendors have already shared their excitement over the decision.

FDA says CT scans sometimes damage implantable cardiac electronic devices

Despite these incidents, CT continues to be the preferred imaging technology for patients with implantable or wearable medical devices.

AI model slashes cerebral aneurysm interpretation times

Similar tools could have great utility in enhancing clinical workflows and improving the diagnosis of cerebral aneurysms, which can be deadly if ruptured.

Radiomics-based tool predicts fracture risk in COPD patients

Such technology can be leveraged to improve risk assessments without accruing additional expenses for patients or clinicians, potentially filling in gaps where DXA exams fall short.

Example of an automated artificial intelligence (AI) assessment of soft coronary plaque from a CT scan from the vendor Cleerly. The AI gives a very detailed report of all the plaque in all the coronary vessels. Some cardiology experts believe this may be the way of the future in screening patients for early coronary disease and monitoring the impact of prevention efforts such as statins to determine if more aggressive treatments are needed.

Medicare administrative contractors approve coverage of AI-enabled quantitative CT

Four of the seven Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) announced they will now cover artificial intelligence-enabled quantitative coronary tomography (AI-QCT) and coronary plaque analysis (AI-CPA).

Ron Blankstein, MD, Brigham and Womens Hospital, explains a study using AI opportunistic screening in non-cardiac CT scans looking for coronary artery disease.

Use of AI opportunistic screening in CT for cardiovascular disease

Ron Blankstein, MD, professor of radiology, Harvard Medical School, explains the use of artificial intelligence to detect heart disease in non-cardiac CT exams.

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.