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.

doctor telehealth computer screen

Virtual radiology consultation services could add value—but are patients interested?

Patients appeared to show little interest in the offering, presenting an "important quandary" for the specialty, according to a new study. 

Cigna

Cigna is removing 25% of medical services from prior authorization, but none of them are in imaging

The health insurer has faced criticism over its use of PA, including a class action lawsuit alleging it denied claims for imaging and other healthcare services in bulk

Male stroke patients undergo CTA at significantly higher rates than women with no impact on outcomes

The disparity appeared concentrated among white, privately insured, higher income, and middle aged (50-79 year-old) men. 

Medical malpractice gavel diagnostic error mistake stethoscope

Referrer fails to order CT that could have caught man’s deadly lung cancer weeks earlier

An octogenarian visited the emergency department three times in August 2019 complaining of chest pain, with doctors instead diagnosing angina via X-ray. 

overnight night shift attending radiologist burnout

Diagnostic errors occur mostly when radiologists exceed their average daily production

It may be necessary to monitor physicians' average daily productivity numbers over more extended periods of time to address this issue. 

Walgreens-backed VillageMD launches ‘major imaging hub’ open 7 days a week

The “first imaging department of its kind” will deliver CT, ultrasound, X-ray, fluoroscopy and ambient MRI, all in one location. 

Use of advanced imaging skyrockets in ED, and radiologists should be ready for more

The surge in imaging utilization is independent of increased patient volumes, “suggesting that other extrinsic drivers” contributed, researchers noted. 

SCCT President Ed Nicol, MD, explains key trends trends in cardiac CT imaging at the 2023 meeting. #SCCT #SCCT23 #SCCT2023

Key trends and takeaways in cardiac CT at SCCT 2023

Several key trends at the 2023 annual meeting of the Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography were outlined by society President Ed Nicol, MD, including AI, reimbursement issue, business management discussions, and a growing interest in cardiac CT leading to record attendance this year.

Around the web

The nuclear imaging isotope shortage of molybdenum-99 may be over now that the sidelined reactor is restarting. ASNC's president says PET and new SPECT technologies helped cardiac imaging labs better weather the storm.

CMS has more than doubled the CCTA payment rate from $175 to $357.13. The move, expected to have a significant impact on the utilization of cardiac CT, received immediate praise from imaging specialists.

The all-in-one Omni Legend PET/CT scanner is now being manufactured in a new production facility in Waukesha, Wisconsin.

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