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.

lung cancer pulmonary nodule chest

ACR releases new guidance to help radiologists manage incidental lung findings on CT scans

The 13-page white paper touches on everything from specific findings and reporting terms, to balancing a patients' risk and benefits.

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Mobile stroke units improve patient outcomes, reduce risk of disability

Researchers tracked data from more than 1,000 patients who received care from 2014 to 2020. 

chest pain lung pulmonary embolism

New pulmonary embolism approach could substantially reduce imaging overuse

The pretest probability score produced false-negative rates below 1% and dropped imaging use by about 20%, according to a new JAMA Cardiology study. 

chest pain lung pulmonary embolism

AI spots dozens of missed incidental pulmonary embolism diagnoses at one hospital

The investigation was retrospective, but Duke scientists believe their algorithm could potentially aid radiologists in spotting near-misses in their work.

Cigna

Cigna stops requiring prior authorization for certain CT imaging exams

Imaging advocates praised the policy change, which took effect on Monday, Feb. 1. 

chest pain lung pulmonary embolism

Providers blunt skyrocketing use of CT for pulmonary embolism, but numbers still climbing

CTPA delivery leapt 450% between 2004 and 2016, but efforts from Choosing Wisely and others may have made a dent, experts detailed in JAMA Network Open. 

Fasting before contrast-enhanced CT exams is unnecessary, experts say

In some instances, not eating solid foods can actually make patients feel sick, leading to nausea and dehydration, researchers explained recently.

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Offering imaging exam for free ups utilization by 546%, with key gains in underserved populations

University Hospitals Health System tested the pricing change in a bid to boost outcomes in its service area. 

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.