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.

Radiologists meet with CMS to press for coverage of crucial CT screening exam
Staffers with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services were "attentive to the discussion and requested supporting documentation," ACR reported.
A significant amount of imaging orders in emergency settings are inappropriate
A general lack of awareness pertaining to ACR appropriateness criteria could be a driving factor behind the misguided requisitions, authors of a new analysis suggest.
IAEA: When selecting medical imaging equipment, don’t assume ‘new’ means ‘low dose’
Advanced imaging equipment using ionizing radiation enters the global market at the rate of one new technology every five years.
Stroke patient sues radiology practice claiming negligence led to her fall from a CT scanner
Monica Lynch accuses Midstate Radiology Associates of failing to secure her to the scanner table and ignoring her needs during an examination.
Medicare drops AUC requirement for advanced imaging, ASNC celebrates
"This was an unneeded burden, which was solely adding to the administrative hassles of medicine," said American Society of Nuclear Cardiology President Larry Phillips.

Small airway disease a potential long-lasting effect from COVID-19, new Radiology study warns

A new prospective study from the University of Iowa compared expiratory chest CT from post-COVID patients and a healthy control group, unearthing stark differences.

March 16, 2022

Urgent CT request slips through cracks, failing to catch metastases prior to doomed liver resection

A watchdog is urging providers to apologize to the now-deceased patient's family and correct weaknesses in image-ordering processes.

March 15, 2022

Less than half of lung cancer screening program websites mention radiologists

Such omissions represent an inaccurate portrayal of LCS and missed opportunity to highlight the specialty's central role, experts argued.

March 15, 2022

Malpractice statute of limitations does not apply to hospital’s suit against radiology practice, court rules

Indiana's Medical Malpractice Act does not extend beyond the physician-patient relationship to encompass commercial contracts between providers, according to a recent ruling.

March 14, 2022

Examples of two lung cancers that were caught using low dose CT lung screening. Image from RSNA

Q&A: What updated reimbursement policies could mean for CT lung screening rates in the United States

The ACR said a recent reimbursement rule change for low-dose computed tomography (CT) lung screen scans will help open up screening to more patients.

March 11, 2022

Campaign to reduce children’s radiation exposure drops imaging referrals by 25%

“Simple education initiatives can contribute to both financial and radiation doses savings, particularly important in radiosensitive cohorts," experts wrote recently.

March 10, 2022

$9.5M jury award after CT reveals surgical sponge left in woman for 5 years

A radiologist spotted the sponge during a subsequent ED visit, but the info never made it to the patient nor the ordering physician.

March 9, 2022

CT scan showing lung cancer nodules with measurements of each nodule to track growth or regression from treatment. Image courtesy of RSNA

ACR outlines changes in Medicare lung cancer screening coverage

The American College of Radiology recently released a detailed summary of the National Coverage Determination related to screening for lung cancer with low dose CT.

February 28, 2022

Around the web

Cardiovascular Business

Medicare drops AUC requirement for advanced imaging, ASNC celebrates

"This was an unneeded burden, which was solely adding to the administrative hassles of medicine," said American Society of Nuclear Cardiology President Larry Phillips.

Cardiovascular Business

Cardiology, radiology groups urge insurance provider to rethink imaging policy

SCAI and four other major healthcare organizations signed a joint letter in support of intravascular ultrasound.

Cardiovascular Business

Radiology AI company gains FDA clearance for new CT offerings focused on PE, stroke

The newly approved AI models are designed to improve the detection of pulmonary embolisms and strokes in patients who undergo CT scans.