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.

Annual lung cancer screening adherence drops after initial exam, underlining need for intervention
“Focusing on programmatic resources in the first follow-up period may provide a significant return on investment," experts write in JAMA Network Open.
Launching a CT colorectal cancer screening program: 4 barriers and how to overcome them
CT for CRC screening is at an “inflection point” following the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ recent decision to cover the exam, experts say.
American College of Radiology announces significant expansion of Lung Cancer Screening Registry
The ACR hopes these changes, including the addition of diagnostic performance feedback, will help reduce the number of patients with incidental nodules lost to follow-up each year.
Building a successful CCTA program: Physicians and healthcare executives to share advice
CCTA continues to grow more and more important in the day-to-day treatment of heart patients. Hospitals and health systems that fail to embrace the modality risk falling behind.
Using CT imaging to opportunistically screen for osteoporosis could save Medicare upward of $2.5B
Only about 11% to 18% of eligible patients receive recommended bone density scans, but CT images gathered for other purposes could fill this gap.

Study charts uptick in unnecessary CT, MR imaging surveillance of noninvasive bladder cancer

The impact of these patterns is substantial and may have negative consequences for patients and the healthcare system, experts wrote in JAMA Network Open.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

$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.

Around the web

Health Imaging

American College of Radiology announces significant expansion of Lung Cancer Screening Registry

The ACR hopes these changes, including the addition of diagnostic performance feedback, will help reduce the number of patients with incidental nodules lost to follow-up each year.

Health Imaging

AI reduces CT lung cancer screening workload by nearly 80%

And it can do so with almost 100% accuracy as a first reader, according to a new large-scale analysis.

Health Imaging

Nearly $800,000 settlement offered to family of man who died during MRI exam

The patient, who was being cared for in the ICU, was not accompanied or monitored by nursing staff during his exam, despite being sedated.