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.

CMS says evidence is sufficient to expand Medicare coverage for low-dose CT lung cancer screening

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services wants to lower the starting age from 55 down to 50 while also modifying required smoking pack-years. 

November 18, 2021
Lungs

Lung cancer deaths decrease, but only about 6% of high-risk patients screened using low-dose CT

Providers are struggling to address disparities in minority communities, the American Lung Association reported.  

November 17, 2021
lung cancer pulmonary nodule chest

In report to Congress, task force touts need to improve CT lung cancer screening uptake

USPSTF wants to unearth ways to increase uptake in clinical practice, particularly among those at higher risk of death from the disease.

November 15, 2021

Low-dose CT scans just as accurate as standard for diagnosing appendicitis

The findings should encourage physicians to utilize LDCT in emergency settings to avoid unnecessary radiation.

November 12, 2021
stomach gastrointestinal digestive

Radiologists must be aware of key CT findings in patients with 'devastating' COVID complication

A CT scan can offer a prompt diagnosis and guide subsequent surgical intervention for patients with acute mesenteric ischemia, a rare but deadly disease reported in some COVID cases.

November 12, 2021

Radiologists launching new study assessing ‘one stop shop’ cardiac myocardial CT perfusion imaging

Emory University researchers will compare the technique to nuclear stress testing in a small group of patients.

November 11, 2021
lung cancer pulmonary nodule chest

Providers ordering diagnostic rather than screening CT may push patients out of LCS programs

Additionally, those who undergo a diagnostic versus screening exam can suffer damaging effects, including higher radiation dosages and alternate follow-up recommendations.

November 8, 2021

Minority patient populations less likely to undergo CT imaging than white counterparts

Nearly half of caucasians received a scan in their life vs. 41% of Black patients, 26% of Latinos, and 28% of Asian Americans. 

November 3, 2021