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FEATURE NEW MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY Elevating Care T HE WAYS PHYSICIANS treated pat ient s in the past for myriad health conditions are rapidly changing thanks to new advances in imaging and surgical approaches. Comprehensive Imaging Technology Computed tomography (CT) is a rela- tively new technology that continues to grow leaps and bounds. Developed in 1972 by Godfrey Hounsfi eld, an engineer at EMI Laboratories England, and Allan Cormack, a physicist at Tufts University, the basic concept behind CT — taking images of the body — has become quicker, more effective and, now, less risky. The Toshiba Aquillon CX is a 16-slice CT that allows technicians to effectively take an image while reducing the radia- tion patients receive. “With each scan a patient undergoes, he or she accumulates more radiation, so it’s important we fi nd ways to expose him or her to the least amount possible,” says Debra S. Deller, RT(R)(CT)(MR) imaging supervisor at Orthopaedic & Spine Specialists. “The Aquillon CX allows us to use a very thin slice with 16 detectors for maximum detail in the reconstructed image.” Unlike earlier, 2-D images, 3-D images help physicians to evaluate results more effectively. “In an orthopedic setting, our physi- cians and surgeons appreciate the 3-D reconstruction when dealing with a patient with complex fractures,” says Deller. “The images give them better detail of the problem and allow them to treat the patient appropriately.” Other advantages of the Aquillon CX include: + approximately 28 images per second + foot switches at the front and back of the machine to make workfl ow more effi cient + increased weight capacity to hold patients up to 660 pounds Quieter, Faster Imaging Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has also continued to fl ourish and help physicians make optimal, individualized treatment plans for patients. Originally developed by Felix Bloch and Edward Purcell in 1946, MRI has become a stan- dard radiation-free diagnostic procedure. However, the close chamber of an MRI can pose challenges for patients who are above average height or weight or are claustrophobic. The noise associated with MRI tech- nology can also cause discomfort during the procedure for both adult and pediatric patients, and it could lead to hearing problems. When an MRI machine with a high noise level is used, pediatric patients may require sedation to ensure proper images are obtained. The Toshiba Vantage Titan 3T utilizes a 1.6 meter magnet and has a 71 centimeter opening to allow patients to feel more comfortable during the MRI procedure. “The Titan has a larger central bore, so taller or larger patients can be scanned comfortably and quickly all at once,” says Deller. “This is especially helpful in an orthopedic setting when technicians are scanning long bones, such as the forearms and upper arms. We now have See Page 14