Computed Tomography

The Medical Centers provide patients with 6 state-of-the-art Computer Tomography machines.

A computed tomography (CT) scan is a diagnostic imaging method that uses X-rays to create detailed images of body structures.

Computed tomography allows obtaining high-accuracy images in a very short time, so that a correct diagnosis can be obtained quickly.

Computed tomography (CT) can examine any part of the body, such as the head, cervical region, chest, abdomen, pelvis or limbs. Different organs of the body can be investigated in detail, such as the liver, pancreas, intestines, kidneys, bladder, adrenal glands, lungs and heart. Blood vessels, bones, and the spinal cord can also be studied.

CT Revolution Maxima

The CT Revolution Maxima, manufactured by General Electric, is an advanced 128-slice computed tomography system that delivers high-quality and precise images. It is used in a wide range of clinical applications, from routine examinations to complex procedures, thanks to its ability to scan detailed sections. The scanner integrates artificial intelligence for automatic patient positioning, reducing errors and setup time.

Its high data acquisition speed minimizes motion artifacts, while the ASiR-V™ technology reduces radiation dose by up to 82% without compromising image quality. This is particularly important for oncology or pediatric patients who require repeated scans.

General Electric CT Optima 660

The state-of-the-art General Electric CT Optima 660 128-Slice is the perfect solution for expanding clinical exploration capabilities, from simple to complex, thanks to its exceptional scanning speed and options.

The equipment is equipped with modern technology to reduce the radiation dose administered to the patient. Options like Smart Dose, 3D mA modulation and Organ dose modulation help to decrease the dose administered to the patient.

OPTIMA 520 CT

The GE Optima 520 CT, equipped with IQ Enhance technology, enables fast and precise scans, revolutionizing angiographic exams by capturing the arterial phase with impressive resolution. This system ensures detailed visualization of even the smallest blood vessels, facilitating an accurate and personalized diagnosis.

Integrated technologies like IQ Enhance and the Xtream injection system speed up image acquisition, reducing wait times and providing patients with a more comfortable experience. Additionally, the Optidose and ASiR technologies reduce radiation dose by up to 40% without compromising image quality, making it ideal for patients requiring repeated scans, thus protecting their long-term health.

Information about computed tomography

What is Computed Tomography (CT)?

the imaging investigation method that uses X-rays to obtain detailed, accurate images of the internal organs;
the technique is completely atraumatic and minimally invasive (it is possible to inject iodinated contrast substance intravenously);
the amount of X-radiation is optimized by the device to obtain maximum medical information with minimum patient exposure;
CT is used for diagnosis in any region of the body (head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, musculoskeletal, etc.);
our clinics benefit from state-of-the-art multislice CT equipment;
the obtained images can be reconstructed in three dimensions afterwards, which allows a superior evaluation of the investigated organs.

How do I prepare for the CT exam?

in the case of examinations of the abdomen and pelvis, do not eat 3-4 hours before the investigation; if you suffer from diabetes or other chronic conditions you can take your basic treatment and have a light snack;
you will complete a questionnaire in the clinic that establishes the reason for the examination and possible contraindications; -metal objects must be removed (watches, keys, coins, jewelry); they can affect the quality of the image;
you may receive a robe during the investigation instead of your clothes; – for some investigations (abdominopelvic CT) it may be necessary to drink a liquid in the clinic, before the investigation (20-60 minutes) for a better delimitation of the intestine;
some CT investigations can be completed with the administration of intravenous iodinated contrast substance for additional characterization of the lesions and for the assessment of the function of the evaluated organs;
you may be asked for recent blood tests, especially urea, creatinine, which provide information on kidney function; it is in your interest to provide them; modified analyzes may constitute a contraindication for the administration of intravenous iodinated contrast.
recent barium examination (barite transit, irrigography in the last 2-3 days) is a contraindication for abdominal CT.

How is the CT exam performed?

you will be asked to lie on the table of the machine, which will easily enter the center of the scanner, allowing the positioning of the body region to be studied between the X-ray and the detectors of the machine; – the field of the CT detectors is wide, permissive, so you will not experience claustrophobia;
during the examination the table moves slightly;
you are permanently supervised by an operating physician throughout the investigation, visually and aurally;
during the examination you must remain still;
you may receive respiratory commands (“take a deep breath and stop breathing”, etc.) or positioning commands (“raise your hands above your head”);
for some examinations, intravenous iodinated contrast injection is necessary to improve the visualization of internal organs; you may feel warmth locally or throughout the body during the injection, this is a normal reaction; the injection decision belongs only to the radiologist;
a small percentage of patients have a transient feeling of nausea, but usually it passes quickly;

How long does a CT scan take?

the scan may take a few seconds, but positioning the patient, the machine and repeating the scan after injecting the contrast material can take up to 20 minutes;
after the investigation is finished you may be asked to wait until the doctor analyzes the images to decide whether or not additional scans are needed.

TO REMEMBER:

tell your doctor if you are pregnant; there are severe CT examination restrictions, because the fetus can be affected; the exception is the case where the mother’s life is endangered (ex. intracerebral hemorrhage secondary to a vascular malformation), when the benefit exceeds the risk of irradiation;
notify the doctor if you have kidney disease and diabetes; they may contraindicate, depending on the severity, the administration of intravenous iodinated contrast;
in a small number of patients, the iodinated contrast substance can trigger allergic reactions (reddening of the skin, much less often swelling of the face or breathing difficulties);
the risk of allergy is increased in patients with a history of allergies in the past or bronchial asthma; notify the doctor before the investigation;
allergic reactions can be prevented or treated with specific drugs.

Computed Tomography