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.

Reimbursement for AI-based plaque assessments is improving
A growing number of private insurers are now covering these advanced technologies. Roosha Parikh, MD, told Cardiovascular Business that the hard work of SCCT and other groups has helped make this happen.
AI helps experts 'see' stress on routine CT scans
It has been well established that chronic stress can affect an individual both physically and psychologically but measuring its impact objectively has remained a challenge.
House lawmakers, ACR push bill requiring Medicaid to cover CT lung cancer screenings
U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor, D-Fla., Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., and Debbie Wasserman Schultz, D-Fla., recently reintroduced the Increasing Access to Lung Cancer Screening Act.
Expanding lung cancer screening eligibility criteria could save tens of thousands of lives
“These findings suggest that current screening guidelines miss most patients with lung cancer, and age-based screening could improve detection and cost-effectiveness," experts note.
AI spots more pancreatic cancer than radiologists
The use of artificial intelligence has the potential to significantly improve the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, new data suggest.

Automated CT-derived markers identify those at higher risk of developing diabetes and other conditions

These measures could be utilized as an opportunistic screening tool in individuals who undergo routine health screenings.

Radiology experts recommend routine chest CT as ‘cost free’ method to assess other concerns in certain patients

Lung transplant recipients are at an increased risk of osteoporosis following surgery and already must undergo multiple such scans following the procedure.

Test bolus of diluted contrast optimizes scan timing during CTA

It also reduces iodine uptake and radiation dose in patients, without sacrificing image quality.

Commercially available AI tool detects 76% of PE that rads initially missed on CT

Improving the detection of pulmonary embolism has been a popular target among multiple AI vendors.

COVID-19 survivors with diabetes may require long-term lung monitoring

Three years after recovery, individuals with diabetes had higher incidence of respiratory symptoms, lung abnormalities on CT scans, and problems moving oxygen into the blood.

CT colonography utilization has doubled over the last decade

That number is expected to grow even more in the coming years, as the exam serves as a noninvasive alternative to colonoscopy, while also providing more accurate results than stool tests.

The imaging iodine contrast shortage is delaying procedures and causing rationing at hospitals. impact is it having on hospitals and the tough decisions that are being made to triage patients to determine if they will get a contrast CT scan or an interventional or surgical procedure requiring contrast. Photo by Dave Fornell

Higher radiation doses don't always improve CT image quality

Dose reduction protocols vary across scanners and organizations. This can create inconsistencies in both image quality and measuring patients’ total radiation exposure.

CT guided bone marrow biopsies cost 13 times more than non-image guided procedures, without improving specimen quality

A new analysis offers a thorough overview of the factors that influence providers’ decision to utilize image guidance and how they affect expenditures.

Computed Tomography

Reimbursement for AI-based plaque assessments is improving

AI helps experts 'see' stress on routine CT scans

House lawmakers, ACR push bill requiring Medicaid to cover CT lung cancer screenings

Expanding lung cancer screening eligibility criteria could save tens of thousands of lives

AI spots more pancreatic cancer than radiologists