Doctors now have access to newer CT scanning technology at CVMC to help
make accurate diagnoses even more quickly. A computed tomography scan,
also called CT or CAT scan, is a medical imaging procedure that uses special
X-ray equipment to obtain cross-sectional detailed images of organs, bones,
and other tissues to help diagnose injuries, broken bones or early-stages
of disease.
Rick Bare, CVMC Director of CT says, “We have upgraded the standard
for CT imaging with a new system installed at the hospital for improved
throughput and enhanced capabilities for interventional and CT angiography
and another located at the Catawba Valley Imaging Center (CVIC) to serve
our greater outpatient population.”
The hospital purchased two scanner systems this year. One is a 128 slice
system with an interventional package allowing for more intricate biopsy
procedures along with improved vascular scanning techniques. The second
scanner is a 40 slice system located at CVIC that offers faster scanning
capability with lower radiation dose. The 4,400-pound machines generate
high-resolution internal images that are particularly useful in examining
patients with acute chest pain, abdominal pain, and suspicion of stroke.
Physicians can now review results even with a patient on the table, allowing
them to provide immediate feedback and quickly determine treatment options.
The new equipment not only offers higher image quality, but the design
also better accommodates patients who are obese, short of breath or those
with elevated heart rates.
With safety always a top concern at CVMC, patients can also find comfort
in knowing the new machines map internal anatomy in three dimensions with
less exposure to potentially harmful radiation doses than previous models
of CT scanners.