Ask the Experts: Low Dose CT Scans

As you read in our last Ask The Experts Post, Atlantic Medical Imaging has recently installed ultra low dose CT technology in all of our outpatient imaging facilities that provide CT scans. This new technology ensures that each patient is receiving the least amount of radiation possible.

In this post, we continue the discussion with Dr. Ajay Viswambharan and focus on the use of CT scans and how AMI is able to reduce radiation exposure.

What are some common uses of a CT scan? (Why would a doctor order a CT?)

Some common reasons why a doctor would order a CT scan would be to assess a body part's structure or shape, or diagnose a disease, trauma, or injury. CT scans are also a great alternative to certain types of exploratory or diagnostic surgeries. They can also aid in the planning of surgery or as a visual aid for biopsies and other interventional procedures.

When would a patient have a CT scan versus an MRI?

A physician would determine if a CT or MRI is needed based on what part of the body they want to see, and the reason for the exam.  For example, a CT scan does not show tendons and ligaments as well as an MRI due to the density of the tissue. The spinal cord is best seen with an MRI for the same reason. 
CT scans however, are the preferred method when diagnosing or assessing cancer and tumors, pneumonia, to see the chest and lungs, or to see the sinus cavities. CT scans are also very beneficial to see the internal organs, for trauma patients, and to rule out internal bleeding. 

There is concern about radiation exposure, how does AMI ensure that the CT scanners are low dose?

In addition to software built into all CT scanners that adjusts the radiation dose based on the patients size, all AMI CT scanners are equipped with special software that allows the use of less radiation to generate diagnostic quality images. This software is used on all exams so that all patients will benefit.

Continue to check back for more questions answered by Dr. Viswambharan. 

If you would like a specific question answered, please visit the Ask The Experts page and leave your question in the comment section. We will work hard to ensure your question is answered by one of our radiologists.

Welcome to AMI's Blog

Welcome to the Atlantic Medical Imaging Blog

Why we started this blog

Why did we start this blog? We can answer that in just five words: to educate, inform and empower. At Atlantic Medical Imaging, we believe that everyone needs to be their own healthcare advocate. In this day and age, people need to play an active role in their health care decisions. Your choices need to be made from an informed point of view.

This blog is one more way AMI is helping you become more informed.  Our hope is that this blog becomes your go-to resource for answers, insights and a deeper understanding of the important role medical imaging can play in your overall health.

We aim to establish an active online community, where AMI’s top physicians will share their personal insights on relevant medical issues. This is where you will find at-your-fingertips information on the latest technologies and procedures available at AMI. You’ll learn about health-centered events, new imaging experts added to our staff, and ways we’re giving back to the community through the AMI Foundation.

The importance of choosing wisely

There is a misperception among the general public that medical imaging is a commodity, and that one provider is as good as the next. The truth is, diagnostic imaging is a highly-specialized medical field and all providers are not created equal.

You should put as much thought into choosing your imaging provider as you would in selecting the right orthopedic surgeon or the best hospital for the birth of your child. The level of education, expertise and technology of your medical imaging provider can make all the difference between a proper diagnosis and a missed one.

Why AMI is a wise choice

At AMI, we are committed to serving the community by combining compassionate, sensitive patient care with delivery of the most rapid, accurate and advanced diagnostic imaging services possible. What began in 1964 as a one-man radiology practice has grown into a nationally recognized, full-service radiology practice with 39 board certified radiologists and an exceptional staff of 450. The physicians of AMI are board-certified radiologists, trained at some of the most renowned and respected universities and hospitals in the nation.

AMI specializes in MRI, CT, PET/CT imaging, Digital Mammography, Ultrasound, DEXA scans, Fine Needle Aspirations, Core Biopsies, Nuclear Imaging and X-rays. AMI’s Breast Imaging, Cardiac Imaging and Vein Center have been recognized as Centers of Excellence.

When patients do their homework, they choose AMI

With an emphasis on using the latest medical imaging technology, providing the highest level of patient satisfaction, employing highly-educated staff, and providing numerous convenient locations, AMI strives to provide an exceptional experience for its patients and referring clinicians.

Since 1964, the people of southern New Jersey have put their trust in AMI. We continue to be committed to earning that trust every day. We understand that you have a choice in medical imaging. We want to be your choice.

We look forward to getting to know you through our blog…and vice versa.  Please feel free to post questions or suggested topics, and we’ll try to provide you with information that will be enlightening and helpful.