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 expected to drive implementation of CCTA, coronary plaque analysis
For years, imaging experts have predicted that CCTA may become the primary imaging modality for coronary artery disease and eliminate the need for invasive diagnostic catheterizations. That prediction is now coming true.
Targeting women eligible for both lung and breast cancer screening pays off
“There is enormous potential here, and the [American Cancer Society] is thrilled with the outcome of this study," one investigators says.
Experts call for more judicious use of contrast, highlighting environmental concerns
New data highlight the significant burden contrast media use places on the environment, prompting experts to call for more stringent use of these agents.
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.

SPECT/CT helps personalize treatment options for prostate cancer patients

Using SPECT/CT imaging, providers can stratify patients based on their treatment responses and make personalized adjustments accordingly.

RadNet joins hospital giant HCA and others in coalition to address woeful cancer screening rate

The consortium of cancer care stakeholders recently held a launch event, with others involved including the ACR, Johnson & Johnson, and drug company AstraZeneca.

Syringeless contrast media injectors like the GE Ulrich CT Motion have gained a lot of interest in 2022 because of the iodine contrast shortage. These systems use rollers to squeeze precise amounts of contrast from a large bolus container for multiple patients, helping conserve a significant amount of contrast.

Multi-use syringeless injectors could completely eliminate contrast waste

Such products could increase departmental efficiency and advance environmental initiatives in radiology, experts claimed in Academic Radiology.

Physician-owned hospitals charge less for imaging than their counterparts

The finding comes as lobbying groups urge Congress to repeal an ongoing moratorium on doc hospital ownership

More assertive language in cancer screening reports leads to likelier receipt of follow-up care

Patients with Lung-RADS 4A findings who spoke with a clinician by phone were three times more likely to see things through, experts wrote in JAMA Network Open.

MR angiography a suitable alternative to CT when ruling out pulmonary embolus

The modality switch became especially important during the iodinated contrast shortage of 2022 when clinics were forced to deploy mitigation tactics as a means of preserving their contrast supply.

Photon-counting technology offers new opportunities in imaging high-risk CAD patients

Coronary CT angiography is commonly used to assess patients at low or intermediate risk of CAD but is less effective in high-risk patients with an increased presence of coronary calcifications and stents due to the “blooming” effect they have on imaging.

American College of Radiology tells CMS new quality measure would pose too much burden

The agency is proposing a new electronic clinical quality measure for inpatients tied to "excessive radiation dose or inadequate image quality."

Computed Tomography

Reimbursement expected to drive implementation of CCTA, coronary plaque analysis

Targeting women eligible for both lung and breast cancer screening pays off

Experts call for more judicious use of contrast, highlighting environmental concerns

Reimbursement for AI-based plaque assessments is improving

AI helps experts 'see' stress on routine CT scans