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What is a CT Scan?
CT, which stands for computed tomography (sometimes referred to as a "CAT" scan), is a fast, painless diagnostic tool doctors can use to see inside the body. Physicians use the information they get from a CT scan to rule out or confirm the presence of certain abnormalities or diseases. If doctors do see something on your scan, that information can be vital in determining proper treatment options.
Highlands Regional Medical Center proudly offers the latest in CT Scanner technology. The Philips Brilliance 64-slice CT Scanner is a quick and powerful way for physicians to see what's inside.
More Information
About the Machine
Frequently Asked Questions
Technical Specifications
About the Machine
Highlands Regional Medical Center announced the hospital's newest investment in patient care with the 64-slice Brilliance CT Scanner from Philips Medical Systems.
The new 64-slice CT (computed tomography) scanner produces crisp, detailed images of the body in seconds, allowing physicians to detect and treat life threatening illnesses such as heart disease, cancer, stroke and lung disease at an earlier stage. The state-of-the-art technology also allows for a quicker scan time, which translates to a more comfortable patient experience.
The 64-slice CT can gather the image of a heart, brain or lungs in about five seconds, and a scan of the whole body in about 30 seconds, producing high-resolution 3D images in far less time than previous CT Scanners.
The 64-slice Brilliance CT includes technology that ensures that patients receive less radiation which supports Highlands Regional Medical Center's commitment to patient safety across the entire spectrum of patient care.
Our state-of-the-art CT scanner offers the latest in diagnostic imaging technology including:
- Clear and detailed scans of the body in seconds
- Technology with less radiation
- Fast and more accurate results that allow physicians to detect diseases earlier
FAQ's
Why is CT important?
CT scans allow doctors to see images of your internal organs and structures in great detail from a variety of angles. This gives your physicians critical information more quickly and, in many cases, more economically than they could achieve with other tests or invasive techniques. In those cases where surgery is recommended, the information from the CT scan helps the surgical team in the planning process.
Is CT like an X-ray?
Yes. CT uses X-rays in conjunction with advanced computer technology to generate very accurate and detailed images of your internal organs, and structures. Your technologist will step into a control room to conduct the actual exam. You may notice a mechanical noise coming from the scanner. This is just the X-ray tube being activated and rotating around your body.
Will the CT scan hurt?
No. CT is a painless, non-invasive test that will not hurt at all. Your exam might require that a contrast agent be given intravenously that will make your blood vessels and tissues more visible. You will then be asked to lie perfectly still once the technologist has positioned you appropriately on the table. You may also be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during the exam. Any movement might require the exam to be repeated.
How long will my CT exam take?
The length of your CT exam depends on which particular study, or studies, your doctor has ordered. Most exams are quick and painless, lasting just a few minutes. You may be asked to arrive at the facility 15 or 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam time.
Do I have to do anything special to prepare for my CT scan?
How you prepare for your CT scan depends on what part of the body is being examined and the protocols used in your particular facility. In some cases the staff may ask you to change into a hospital gown for the exam. And you may be asked not to eat or drink anything before your exam.
What is a contrast agent?
A contrast agent is a liquid substance that makes certain tissues stand out more clearly against their surroundings, enabling the finest details to show up on the X-ray, improving diagnostic accuracy. You may be given the contrast agent intravenously or orally. In all cases the contrast agent will leave your body naturally within a few hours. If your exam does require a contrast agent, be sure to tell the technologist if you have any allergies, especially to iodine or shellfish.
What parts of the body can a Brilliance CT scanner evaluate?
Almost all of it, since CT scans are used to view both soft and hard tissue.
Will I feel claustrophobic?
Our state-of-the-art CT system is specifically designed to provide the ultimate in patient comfort including a more open design which allows patients to see outside of the machine during examinations, reducing claustrophobic effects. This more open unobstructed view offers greater comfort than conventional "tube shaped" machines and also allows you to see and talk to your technologist during your exam.
Are there any people who shouldn't get CT scans?
If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or have allergies, you should inform your doctor and CT technician prior to your exam.
Can my family be present during the exam?
Typically, family members and/or friends are not permitted to stay with you in the CT room. However, these rules are different at some facilities and for some types of patients.
Will I be alone during the CT exam?
During your CT exam, you will be in contact with a technologist. Even when the technologist is not in the CT room you will be able to communicate via intercom. The technologist will inform you when an exam is about to start and when it is finished.
Our state-of-the-art CT scanner helps doctors learn what's really going on inside you. Computed Tomography has revolutionized diagnostic medicine. This advanced X-ray technique allows your doctor and radiologist to view bones, organs, blood vessels and even your heart, in extraordinarily fine detail. This information helps doctors diagnose a wide variety of conditions earlier and faster than ever before.
Technical specifications
The Philips Brilliance CT
64-channel configuration is designed for leading edge institutions that want to offer the most advanced Multi-slice, volume coverage CT studies to their community. It offers breakthrough performance in cardiac and coronary artery imaging and can help boost clinical capabilities to the highest level attainable.
This advanced imaging system:
Provides large volume, thin-slice coverage which dramatically improves diagnostic confidence, image quality and productivity.
Offers advanced cardiac imaging that allow for excellent coronary artery evaluation.
Delivers breakthrough performance in advanced pulmonary imaging, multi-organ trauma evaluation and low-dose pediatric applications.
Provides superb performance in cardiac and coronary artery imaging, pulmonary studies, CTA and critical care.
Expands clinical boundaries through applications, such as extended coverage brain perfusion, that positions CT as a modality of choice in stroke evaluations.
Technical Specifications
- 8.0 MHU MRC Tube
- Up to 20 ips RapidView reconstruction
- 64 x 0.625 mm acquisition
- 0.34 mm x 0.34 mm x 0.34 mm isotropic resolution
- Optional 0.4 second rotation time
- On-board 60 kW, high frequency, high-voltage generator
- Up to 24 Lp/cm ultra-high spatial resolution
- High resolution 7682 and 10242 reconstruction matrices
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