About CT

Computed Tomography (CT) is a sophisticated imaging technique that shows different levels of the anatomy. During CT imaging, the x-ray source rotates around the patient. Each rotation produces a single, cross-sectional "slice", like the slices in a loaf of bread. These images are far superior in detail than standard x-rays and greatly enhance a physician's diagnosis.

Glendale MRI Institute employs the state-of-the-art, multi-slice Gemini CT. Offering high resolution and thin slices to visualize even the smallest details, it features a high efficiency detector with true sub millimeter isotropic imaging.

The multi-slice configuration provides scan times of 0.4 sec. It features unparalleled reconstruction rates and enables true 3D data acquisition and reconstruction in both axial and spiral scanning.

Multi-slice Superiority

In contrast to conventional CT, which images the body slice by slice, our multi-slice CT acquires data continuously as the patient travels through the gantry.

For patients, this translates into speed and diagnostic detail. A scan of the chest, abdomen and pelvis can be performed in seconds during a single breath-hold. Previously, the same scan would have taken approximately an hour.

For physicians, the advanced design provides higher resolution, resulting in clearer images for more accurate diagnosis.

Clinical Applications

CT is used to diagnose many conditions. In cancer detection, CT is used to scan for abnormal masses, showing the size and shape of the tumor, its precise location and whether it is solid or hollow. In addition, CT scans can provide valuable information in the detection of abscesses, strokes, head injuries and bleeding inside the skull.

Our new CT multi-slice scanner offers a comprehensive range of clinical applications. It provides a greater volume of coverage, enabling us to perform advanced motion-sensitive applications such as pulmonary and short breath-hold cardiac studies. We also can perform calcium scoring as well as retrospective and prospective gating.

CT Angiography

With our new CT, Glendale MRI Institute now offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional angiography.

CT Angiography combines the rapid acquisition of images afforded by our multi-slice CT scanner and melds them with 3D rendering techniques to generate pictures of the arteries of the body. Where previously this information required a surgical procedure, now even the small arteries in the heart and brain can be imaged with precision.

CT Angiography allows us to visualize the carotid, renal, peripheral and coronary arteries and to address pulmonary embolism. Not only is this technique invaluable for delineation of the body’s vasculature, but it also is a safe, convenient alternative to costly, invasive angiography procedures.

The Painless Scan

In addition to clinical superiority, our new CT system is patient-friendly. Physicians can acquire diagnostic CT images from one non-invasive, painless scan. Plus, the system’s unique, open design allows our staff to interact with patients during the exam, preventing the claustrophobic effect that an enclosed gantry can have on some patients.

The amount of radiation is about the same as any other radiology procedure. The patient should not feel any side effects.