Mercy Acquires Latest 64-Slice CT Technology
Mercy Medical Center is using the latest in computed tomography (CT) technology.
Mercy’s new $1.4 million 64-slice CT scanner will assist physicians in the early diagnosis and treatment of 
diseases and injuries. The earlier a problem is diagnosed, the more treatable it is.
“Mercy is one of only two clinical sites in Iowa to offer the 64-slice scanner,” said Duane Dzingle, director of Radiology at Mercy. The other is Iowa Methodist Hospital in Des Moines.
“Mercy has always been a leader in giving its patients the benefit of leading-edge technology, and this new 64-slice scanner is one more example of that,” Dzingle added.
The use of this scanner to image the heart is an emerging technology that physicians in the community may begin using for selected patients in place of more invasive diagnostic catheterization procedures.
“While this technology will not be appropriate for every patient, over time we anticipate that more and more patients will receive these less-invasive scans to assist the physician in diagnosing cardiac problems,” said Dr. Keith Kopec, medical director of Mercy’s Cardiology Services.
CT combines the use of X-rays with computer technology. Images, or slices, are sent directly to a computer to produce detailed, three-dimensional images. They also can be interpreted by looking at the individual cross-sectional image. The 64-slice scanner software automates the scanning process and automatically personalizes scanning parameters to the individual patient.
The new scanner offers higher image quality, clearer anatomical visualization, improved soft-tissue evaluation and a more comprehensive diagnosis in less time, according to Dzingle. Each scan can be as thin as 0.01969 inches, or 0.5 mm.
“This will allow better visualization of certain anatomic areas such as the colon in patients undergoing virtual CT colonography, and the peripheral blood vessels in patients who have symptoms of peripheral vascular disease,” said Dr. Gary Schweiger, a radiologist at Radiology Consultants of Iowa. “It also will allow us to non-invasively evaluate the coronary arteries in select patients.”
Because the 64-slice scanner is so much faster, patients aren’t required to hold their breath as many times, which means less tension and more comfort for the patients. This is a big advantage for pediatric patients, since children sometimes have difficulty keeping still and sometimes are afraid of what’s happening.
The shorter time also is very significant in the treatment of trauma patients, where speed is vital.
The 64-slice scanner has numerous advantages for patients, including:
- Shorter exam times
- Single-breath-hold scanning
- Reduced X-ray exposure
- More rapid results to facilitate the treatment process
- A safe and cost-effective alternative to invasive diagnostic procedures.
