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.

CMS expanding coverage for CT lung cancer screening, drawing imaging advocate praise

ACR and the Society of Thoracic Surgeons said they will work with the feds, medical providers and patients to implement new screening recommendations.

Rural outreach initiative produces significant increase in lung cancer screenings

Out of the patients who were eligible for LDCT, 88% followed through with their appointment, researchers reported in JACR.

Radiomics-clinical model accurately predicts osteoporotic spinal fracture timeline on CT images

When MRI is not feasible, computed tomography of the spine could offer a quick solution for diagnosing acute versus chronic fractures.

Specific chest CT findings linked with increased mortality in COVID patients

Three abnormalities, including pleural effusion and nodular consolidation, were all independent predictors of 30-day in-hospital mortality.

COVID-19 less severe among fully vaccinated patients, CT imaging study confirms

Even partially vaccinated individuals had a significantly lower risk of requiring supplemental oxygen or being admitted to the ICU, researchers detailed Tuesday in Radiology.

Machine learning uses CT images to predict survival odds of melanoma patients

A unique radiomic signature forecasted overall survival in patients with advanced melanoma and could be used to help providers choose specific therapies.

Wide variation in musculoskeletal imaging charges, including 74-fold difference for one CT exam

Stanford University experts analyzed price transparency data from 250 of the nation's top hospitals, sharing their work in AJR.

Simple quality improvement measures reduce problematic CT overuse for liver imaging

Updated department protocols dropped the median monthly number of abdominopelvic CTs with and without contrast from 74 scans down to 53, experts explained in Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology.

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