Here’s why a CT Scanner is a valuable addition to your practice

In 1967, Sir Godfrey Hounsfield introduced the Computed Tomography (CT) scanner to the world using x-ray technology. Four years later, the first CT scan of a patient’s brain was conducted in Wimbledon, England.

Since then, the versatile and powerful tool has revolutionised the field of medical imaging by making it possible to conduct diverse tests and studies, empowering medical professionals to explore, analyse, and understand anatomical and pathological complexities, leading to more accurate diagnoses and effective treatment.

CT scanners today are faster (earlier, a CT scan would take 30 minutes, today a mere two seconds), safer (the radiation dose from most scanners has come down due to advancements in technology), and offer better image quality.

So, let’s look at the new capabilities a CT scanner can bring to your medical practice.

1. Thoracic imaging

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide accounting for 31% of the global total number of deaths in a year. Yet, says the World Heart Federation, more than 80% of cardiovascular disease cases are preventable. CT scans can provide a thorough assessment of the cardiovascular systems, along with the detection of tumors and fluid accumulation. They can even help doctors locate aneurysms, clots and other aortic disorders within the thoracic or abdominal segments. A new study shows that CT scans are in fact more effective at estimating heart disease risk in mid-life compared to genetic testing. And assessment of risk is essential for prevention.

2. Respiratory imaging

Just as with the heart, a low-dose CT scan is also used to screen for lung cancer. Here too earlier detection can mean more treatment options and a higher chance of a positive outlook. Patients diagnosed with lung cancer at an early stage via CT screening have a 20-year survival rate of 80%.

3. Brain Imaging

CT scans detect various types of tumors, strokes, and other anomalies, such as hematomas, within the brain region. Additionally, CT scans are effective in confirming congenital abnormalities in children.

4. Sinus assessment

CT scan is among the more reliable imaging techniques for determining if sinuses are blocked as it can detect fluid-filled or thick-membraned sinuses as well as if there is any trauma or disorders of the sphenoid bone.

5. Whole-body analysis

For several decades, body mass index (BMI) served as a clinical metric for predictive models to gauge the likelihood of developing chronic diseases. But BMI falls short in certain aspects, for example, failing to consider fat distribution within the body and therefore cannot adequately account for scenarios like muscle loss as seen in conditions such as sarcopenia. CT scan segmentation however can help evaluate health and disease risks. A CT scan of the body from the chin to below the hips enables the assessment of abdominal organs.

6. Virtual endoscopy

Here, CT scans can be used to visualise internal organs and structures without resorting to invasive surgery. CT colonography, for example, is a non-invasive method for cancer screening. Here, the CT scanner checks the colon and rectum. It can even be done as an outpatient in the CT scanning or radiology department at the hospital.

7. Neck and spine imaging

CT scans of the neck and spine are essential for diagnosing spinal injuries, degenerative conditions, and abnormalities such as herniated discs and help in planning spinal surgeries.

Deploying a CT scanner at your healthcare centre not only gives your practice a competitive edge but also allows your patients access to a faster, more accurate diagnosis. The ability to perform comprehensive diagnostics in-house can make a difference in patient outcomes and referrals.

Blue Star E&E is well recognised in the field of diagnostic imaging systems and offers a range of CT scanners including refurbished CT scanners with unique features such as multi-detector and excellent diagnostic imaging quality. For top-quality imaging performance, assured patient comfort, and accurate diagnoses, contact Blue Star E&E today.