The 128-Slice Multidetector helical computed tomography is an ultra fast low radiation dose CT scanner.  It is equipped with the latest technology, offering superior resolution and unprecedented image quality of the soft tissues, vascular system, heart and coronary arteries and bone.

The system covers 128 slices in a single rotation. This results in improved temporal resolution (the ability to image organs that are in constant motion, such as the heart, coronary arteries and bowel sharply and without blur).  The CT has a spatial resolution of 0.24 mm and acquires images so quickly (in seconds) that less contrast media is required. Shorter examination times make patients comfortable. The scanner has a large gantry width of 78 cm and 485 pound table-weight capacity.

The CT scanner has one of the lowest radiation doses in the market.  Unnecessary radiation dose is physically blocked from the patient.  Only the dose that is clinically relevant to the patient is applied.  Zilkha Radiology is always investigating ways to decrease radiation dose.  We have acquired additional hardware and software that further decreases the radiation dose to the patient (up to 80%). This FDA approved cutting edge technology is currently used in children’s hospitals around the country where low dose CT is the highest priority.  Zilkha Radiology is the first and only practice in the Northeast and New York State to acquire and provide this new low dose technology.  We optimize diagnostic quality while keeping patient safety our number one priority.

Dosage Card - Front
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Dosage Card - Back
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The patient may request and receive this radiation dose card after undergoing the CT examination.

Zilkha Radiology Offers In-Office Anesthesia.

 
 
 
 

What is a CT scan?


 

Helical Computed Tomography (CT) uses special x-ray equipment together with a computer to obtain images of the body. CT scan is able to put together the different “slices” (images) to generate a three dimensional view of the area of interest.


What is multi-detector Helical CT (MDCT)?

Multi-detector Helical CT (MDCT) is a new important development in diagnostic imaging, using not one detector but multiple detectors to obtain multiple simultaneous images of any part of the body in a single breathhold, virtually eliminating motion artifacts, and providing excellent diagnostic information.

MDCT provides extended coverage of anatomical areas while producing images with high details.

The scanning speed of multi-detector helical computed tomography allows the acquisition of images at a narrow section thickness and thus improves spatial resolution. Lesion contrast is potentially increased not only because of less volume averaging and motion but also a shorter scanning time. This may lead to improvement in detection of lesions and staging of cancer.

Angiographic evaluation of the head, neck, thorax, abdomen, pelvis and extremities using MDCT angiography is greatly facilitated and results in markedly improved delineation of vessels.


What is the MDCT procedure like?
The examination is performed in a room that houses the CT scanner. Prior to the start of the exam, the technologist will explain the procedure to you. You will then be asked to lie down on a comfortable padded table that gently glides you into the CT scanner. It is important that you be secured because even the slightest movement can blur the picture and results in the need for repeat scans.

You will be easily seen by the technologist at all times. For your convenience, an intercom system is built into the scanner so that if you should need anything at all, a technologist will be right there.


What is a contrast media?

Your doctor may have requested that you receive an injection of contrast agent to give a clearer picture of the area being examined. Sometimes, you may feel a warm sensation as the dye makes its way through your body. In some instances, oral contrast may also be given.


How long will the exam take?

With the advent of multi-detector helical CT scan, the study usually takes 10-15 minutes. Time may vary if multiple studies are done at the same time.


When will you know the results?

Once your CT exam is completed, the pictures will be looked at by the radiologist, a specially trained physician who is able to interpret the scans for your doctor. The radiologist will send your doctor a written report. You should contact your physician within two days of your exam to make an appointment to go over your results and discuss your next step.

 

 
 
What is PET/CT Scan?

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a system that measures the metabolic activity of radioactive glucose, F-18 deoxyglucose (FDG) in tumors.  The increased glucose consumption by tumors compared to normal tissue, is translated into increased uptake of FDG on the PET images.

Anatomic localization of the increased uptake of FDG is made possible and accurate by the simultaneous acquisition of the CT scan (PET/CT).

 

What are the common indications for PET/CT?

PET/CT is primarily used in oncology for the detection of cancer. It is used to determine whether a lesion is benign or malignant.  It is indicated for the assessment of tumor response to therapy. PET/CT is also indicated for the early detection of suspected recurrent tumors and for the diagnosis of metastatic disease.

PET/CT is indicated in a wide variety of cancer including:

·Lung Cancer

·Colorectal Cancer

·Lymphoma

·Melanoma

·Ovarian Cancer

·Breast Cancer

·Head and Neck Cancers

·Pancreatic Cancer

·Brain Tumors

 There are neurological applications of PET/CT including the evaluation of patients with memory impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, seizure disorders and brain tumors.

There are cardiac applications of PET/CT, such as the assessment of blood flow to the heart muscle and tissue viability from prior heart attacks.

 

How is the procedure performed?

A technologist will take you to a room where the radioactive substance is administered through a vein in the arm.  It will take about 60 minutes for the substance to travel and accumulate in the tissues of the body.  During this period, you will be asked to rest quietly and avoid any body movement or talking.  After this period of rest, scanning of the whole body will begin and may take about 30 minutes to complete.  You will be asked to remain still for the duration of the examination.  After the test, you should drink plenty of fluid to flush the substance from your body.

 

How should I prepare for the procedure?

You should wear comfortable loose-fitting clothes.  You should not eat for 5 hours before the test.  You will be encouraged to drink water.

If you are diabetic, you should follow specific diet guidelines to control the glucose level during the day of the test. 

Because the radioactive substance is very short-lived and decays quickly, it is important to be on time for the appointment and receive the radioactive substance at the scheduled time.

 

What factors may alter PET/CT results?

Uncontrolled diabetes and elevated blood sugar level can affect the results of the PET/CT. 

Patients who have eaten within a few hours prior to the examination may have false PET/CT results.  

Because the radioactive substance decays quickly and is only effective for a short period of time, it is important to be on time for the appointment and to receive the radioactive substance at the scheduled time.

 

When will you know the results?

Once your PET/CT exam is completed, the pictures will be looked at by the radiologist, a specially trained physician who is able to interpret the images for your doctor.  The radiologist will send your doctor a written report.  You should contact your physician within 2 to 3 days of your exam to make an appointment to go over your results and discuss your next step.

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