New Imaging Technology At West Holt Medical Services

West Holt Medical Services has announced that they have brought advanced care to their facility, with the latest addition of a new CT scanner.

​The Siemens SOMATOM Perspective 64-slice CT was recently installed in the Diagnostic Imaging department of the hospital, replacing a 16-slice CT machine.

CT (computed tomography) systems combine special X-ray technology with sophisticated computers to make a highly detailed images of organs, bones, soft tissues and blood vessels. CT exams are regularly used by physicians to diagnose conditions such as trauma, cancer and cardiovascular disease.

The new Perspective CT incorporates up to 64 overlapping slices per rotation for high-resolution images. The technology may sound complicated, but it's important; the more slices, the more detailed the image, and that helps physicians make a more accurate diagnosis.

“CT systems use ionizing radiation to generate the images that physicians use to diagnose diseases and injuries,” said Mari Osborne, Diagnostic Imaging director at WHMS. “Everyone is exposed to natural radiation in daily life and radiation exposure is a concern for many patients. Our new CT system reduces radiation dose, compared to the previous CT scanner, while providing high-quality images.”

In addition to improved patient safety, the new CT system at WHMS improves patient access and reduces travel time, so area residents don’t have to go far for advanced imaging care.

​“We want the community to know they can have specialized imaging exams close to home by the people they know and trust. They don’t have to travel for high-quality care,” Osborne said.

A physician referral is required for a CT scan.