OSF St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group has enhanced its medical imaging department with a new 64-slice commuted tomography scanner--known by most as a CT. The new scanner provides faster diagnosis, less radiation and additional treatment options, offering significant benefits over its earlier counterpart, the 16-slice CT.
"The 64-slice CT delivers ultra-sharp images of body organs and tissues in less than a second," says Greg Stupak, manager of medical imaging and cardiac diagnostic services at OSF.
Speed is particularly important in heart scans, with technology so fast it virtually "freezes" the motion of the heart, says Stupak. He notes that with all its capabilities, 64-slice CT may also be an alternative to more invasive procedures like conventional angiography and cardiac catheterization.
"Currently, the only way to confirm the presence of coronary artery disease is through cardiac catheterization, which requires dye, a large needle in the area of the groin and sometimes an overnight stay in the hospital," he says. "Heart catheterization is a safe and very commonly used procedure, but it is still invasive. For some patients, the 64-slice CT will be an optimal alternative."
The new technology also allows physicians to more effectively detect other life-threatening illnesses at earlier stages. It is being used in diagnosis of early-stage cancers, as well as detecting neurological disorders, strokes, head injuries, herniated discs and bone fractures. The fast scan time can be particularly crucial in emergency situations.
Shorter scan times also mean patients are not required to hold their breath or lie still for as long as with 16-slice CT, a particular benefit to patients with breathing difficulties and back or neck pain.
Funds for the new 64-slice CT were provided in part by the OSF St. Francis Hospital Auxiliary. Members donate approximately $60,000 per year and chose the upgraded CT scanner as one of many needed items to support.
Writer: Sam EgglestonSource: Greg Stupak, OSF St. Francis Hospital
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