CT Scan 16-Slice
Exceptional 16-slice imaging in a single breathhold
Both of our facilities are leading the way in revolutionizing CT
scanning and patient safety with our award-winning GE Healthcare
LightSpeed. As a breakthrough innovation, our CT system supports
acquisitions of up to 16 slices per rotation with speed,
sub-millimeter resolution and effective dose optimization.
Our LightSpeed CT system gives us the power to scan finer, further
and faster:
- Finer – Wafer-thin images
of a patient’s anatomy for
improved spatial resolution
- Further – Increased
anatomical coverage with
thinner slices
- Faster – 0.5-second
rotation speeds translate
to faster exams and clearer
images with fewer artifacts
caused by patient movement
With our 16-slice CT system, Westcoast Radiology and Boston Diagnostic Imaging is pushing
clinical applications to a higher level to give you a wider range
of imaging capabilities.
What’s more, our LightSpeed CT system provides exceptional
imaging capabilities for:
- Vascular Applications
- Cardiac Applications
- Cardiac and vascular imaging
Cardiac and vascular imaging are where the difference lies.
About your CT scan
Please follow these special instructions:
- If you have diabetes, you may be asked to temporarily alter your medication.
- Please arrive at the imaging center at least 15 minutes before your appointment.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Women may wish to wear pants. You may be asked to remove jewelry, metal objects, eyeglasses or dental pieces. You may also be asked to wear disposable pants (scrubs).
In addition, please let us know if you might be pregnant.
How does a CT scanner work?
A CT scanner is an x-ray machine that rotates a detector 360 degrees around your body as you lie on a table. The detector measures differences in density of body parts as x-rays pass through your body. The scanner uses a powerful computer to
create multiple images, or image “slices”, that provide very detailed information about your body’s
health. CT allows imaging of organs not viewable by standard x-ray procedures.
What happens during the test?
A technologist will escort you to the CT scanner room. You will be asked to lie on the scanner table. In some cases, you may be given an injection and/or drink involving iodinated contrast agent (x-ray dye) before or during the scan. The
agent helps the doctor to better view certain body parts.
The table will move during the scan. You will be asked to stay still and not to breathe for short periods while the machine is scanning. You will be able to hear and talk to the technologist, who will be in the next room.
How do I prepare?
Make sure you understand from your doctor exactly why you are having the exam, and what part of your body is to be scanned. Your doctor will let you know if there are any special preparations you will need before the exam.
Make sure you understand and follow these directions carefully. If you do not, your exam may need to be rescheduled.
- If you have diabetes, you may be asked to temporarily alter your medication.
- You may be asked to take a drink containing a contrast agent before your exam.
Please arrive at the imaging center at least 15 minutes before your appointment to be checked in for your exam. You may be asked to wear disposable pants (scrubs).
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Women may wish to wear pants. You may be asked to remove jewelry, metal objects, eyeglasses or dental pieces.
How is MRI different from CT?
MRI uses a strong magnet and radio waves to create high resolution images, while CT (computed tomography) uses x-rays. MRI and CT images provide slightly different information to doctors.
These differences depend on the area being imaged. Your doctor may order one or both of these tests for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is CT especially useful?
Ct is useful in diagnosing many health problems. It provides highly detailed cross-sectional images of any area of the body. It is also useful for evaluating blood vessel health.
Will I be able to feel the scan?
No, the scan is painless, but you will hear a swirling noise while the scanner is on. You may feel some mild warmth if a contrast agent is injected.
What are the risks?
Rarely, some people have an allergic reaction to the contrast agent. This may cause a rash, low blood pressure or even some difficulty breathing. If a strong allergic reaction happens, it is treated as an emergency. If you are breast-feeding, ask
your doctor how long you should hold off after the contrast is given.
With a CT, like a standard x-ray, there is a small exposure to radiation. The radiation from a CT scan may be slightly more than from a regular x-ray, but it is very small and unlikely to cause any harm.
- Let your doctor know if you have an allergy to iodine.
- Let your doctor know if you are or may be pregnant or are breastfeeding.
How long does a CT scan take?
It may take 15-30 minutes for the exam, depending on what scans your doctor has ordered. At the end, any IV that is inserted to deliver contrast agent will be removed. You can then go back to your normal activities.
When will I get my test results?
The radiologist will review your test results and provide a report to your doctor.
Reports will be forwarded to your doctor in a timely manner. Please follow up with your doctor to get your test results.
CT 16-Slice Images
