320-slice CT Scanner
The Most Powerful X-Ray Imaging Device on the Planet is at St. Elizabeth
In the fall of 2007, St. Elizabeth Edgewood began operating an imaging device capable of producing functioning 3-D images of the body’s organs in less than a heartbeat. Simply put, the Aquilion ONE 320-slice CT scanner is the most powerful X-ray imaging device in the world.

This $3.4 million super-scanner is unparalleled in its capabilities, which include: detection and measurement of toothpick thin blockages in the blood vessels, detection of nearly imperceptible changes in blood flow, creation of flawless 3-D images of any organ, joint or body part, in less than a heartbeat. It’s equally important to note that this groundbreaking technology comes at no additional cost to the patient and with significantly less radiation than other CT scanners currently in use.

PET/CT
PET/CT is the most advanced medical imaging technique available today, combining Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with Computed Tomography (CT).

PET/CT combines the fine structural detail of CT with a PET ability to detect changes in cell function. This combination allows for earlier and more accurate detection of disease than either CT or PET alone.

A PET/CT scan helps your physician diagnose a problem, determine the best approach to treatment or monitor your progress.

For more information on a PET Scan please click here.

Computed Tomography (CT)
Computed tomography (CT) is a quick and painless imaging procedure utilizing x-rays to generate cross-sectional pictures of the body. These scans allow radiologists and other physicians to see inside the body. CT scanners can show very small anatomical structures as well as show the presence and extent of any diseases that may be present.

MRI
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body. In many cases, MRI gives information that cannot be seen on an X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan.

How does a CT scanner work?
A CT scanner is a gantry or large "donut" shaped device, which contains an x-ray machine. Multiple low-dose x-rays are used to create pictures of thin slices of your body. These pictures are put together by a computer to form detailed images of the body. Often, a contrast dye may be injected into the bloodstream to help enhance anatomy.

Each exam takes approximately fifteen minutes. During the exam you are expected to lie still on a table while it slowly moves through the gantry.

What other tests does a CT scanner perform?

CT Patient Prep
Abdomen and Pelvic: Nothing to eat or drink after midnight. Arrive one hour before schedule appointment.

Brain, Chest, Facial Bone, Mastoid and Extremities: No prep required. Medications may be taken.

When IV Contrast is to be administered:

1. Nothing to eat or drink after midnight.
2. When available, provide center with previous lab results (Bun or creatinine or films).
3. Arrive thirty minutes before scheduled appointment.
4. Diabetics or Glucophage off for forty-eight hours.

CT Coronary Angiography
CT coronary angiography is an incredible, new imaging procedure that can be performed more quickly, comfortably and affordably than standard coronary angiography. The images are very similar to those provided by invasive heart catheterization without the use of these catheters and without the need to insert equipment into the body. This procedure allows physicians to see detailed images of the heart's arteries. Only an IV line and a small amount of dye are required, so there is minimal risk. The scan can be performed as a wellness screening for those without symptom or as a diagnostic procedure. St. Elizabeth is one of the first in this area to provide its patients with this new technology.

CT Coronary Angiography is performed faster, easier and more affordably than conventional angiography. Although the images are similar to conventional angiography, there is no heart catheterization or equipment insertion into the body. An IV line and a minimal amount of dye are needed. This reduces the risk of complications dramatically over conventional angiography. CT Coronary Angiography utilizes the latest in computer software and advanced CT scanning to provide three-dimensional images of the heart.

A CT angiogram provides detailed images of blood flowing within the arteries and allows possible life-threatening restrictions to be seen. In addition, CT angiograms allow "soft plaques", which may or may not have calcium deposits to be visualized.

Patients who might benefit from a CT Angiogram are:

• Patients with a calcium score greater than 100.
• Patients with abnormal or unexplained chest pain syndromes.
• Patients concerned with stress test results.
• Pre-op evaluations before surgical procedures.
• Follow-up to stent placement or heart surgery to determine adequate functionality.
• Have congenital heart anomalies.
• Strong family history of heart disease.

Click here for more information about CT Coronary Angiography.

Coronary Artery Calcium Scoring
Coronary artery calcium scoring (CACS) is one of the least invasive ways available today to detect heart disease in its earliest stages. Calcification in the coronary arteries is an early indicator of heart disease. CACS uses noninvasive, high-speed computerized tomography (CT) to scan the heart and detect calcium deposits along the walls of arteries. The test then produces a calcium score that identifies your level of deposits. Taking into account other factors such as age, family history and cholesterol level, your doctor uses that score to measure your potential for heart disease.