How Can a CT Scanner Provide Value to Your Practice?
1970’s CT Scanner
Introduced in the early 1970’s, the computed tomography (CT) procedure has advanced rapidly and become the imaging exam of choice. CT scans, also known as Computerized Axial Tomography or CAT scans, are done using of a 360-degree x-ray beam and computerized production of images. They utilize imaged slices to reconstruct the tomographic plane of the patient, and these images are then used for diagnostic purposes. Since the final product is a sharp and focused three-dimensional image, many tissues can be better distinguished through CT scanners than standard x-ray systems.
CT applications include detecting a wide range of abnormalities or diseases such as cancer, trauma, infection, inflammation, calcium scoring, pneumonia, tuberculosis, angiography, stroke, bone fracture, sinusitis, spinal column damage, and much more.
Sinus studies
The sensitivity of the CT scanner allows for pinpointing areas of chronic sinus infection and is useful for planning prior to functional endoscopic sinus surgery. The CT scan can also show details of sinusitis; the extent and location of tiny fractures in the sinus and nasal bones; and evaluate trauma or disease of the sphenoid bone.
Brain studies
CT brain scans can detect different types of tumors, strokes, and other lesions in the brain area such as hematomas (collections of blood that have escaped from the vessels). Congenital abnormalities in children, such as hydrocephalus, may also be confirmed with a CT.
Body scans
The CT body scan (which scans from the chin to below the hips) can identify abnormal body structures such as tumors, cysts, fractures, and other damages. A CT scan may be used to observe abdominal organs, such as the liver, kidneys, adrenal glands, spleen, pancreas, and lymph nodes.
Aorta scans
CT scanners can focus on the thoracic or abdominal sections of the aorta to locate aneurysms and other possible aortic diseases. Aorta scans provide the ability to visualize and measure the thickness of the artery, which is very helpful in diagnosing aortic aneurysms, aortic clots, or aortic rupture.
Chest scans
Chest CT scans are useful in detecting tumors and in detailing the accumulation of fluid in chest infections. Chest CT studies can also identify further problems in the respiratory and cardiovascular systems.
Virtual endoscopy
Virtual endoscopy is a relatively new technique that uses a spiral CT to enable doctors to see inside organs and other structures without surgery or special instruments. CT colonography or virtual colonoscopy is one type of virtual endoscopy that has increased in popularity in recent years, due to its nature as a non-invasive cancer screening method.
CT Scanners have become increasingly more affordable in recent years and can now be purchased and installed for under $100,000. They are a way of increasing the level of patient care you can provide at your clinic.
If you’re interested in purchasing a pre-owned CT Scanner, we have a wide variety of options for you to choose from. Access our inventory of refurbished CT Scanners here, and don’t hesitate to contact our team of specialists who can assist you in locating the best machine for your needs.
