The newest wave in computed tomography imaging now is available at Shands at the University of Florida, allowing the radiology team to provide diagnostic scanning of the heart, vascular system and other vital organs twice as fast as with standard CT imaging technology.

A new 64-slice CT scanner produces precise diagnostic images within five to 10 seconds. During the noninvasive procedure, the scanner can freeze motion to help the team better define certain disease processes, resulting in faster diagnoses and referrals.

"For patients experiencing chest pain, we can look at the coronary arteries using images with improved resolution that help us identify the need for more invasive testing," said James Hill, M.D., UF College of Medicine professor of medicine.

The scanner captures images of the heart between beats. In each rotation around the body, it can take 64 images of an anatomical segment, each like a slice from a loaf of bread. This gives the team the most accurate and complete picture with which to identify cardiovascular disease or other heart abnormalities. Traditional CT scanners compare at one, four, eight or 16 images in the same time frame.

“By providing a noninvasive study that can help distinguish blocked from normal coronary arteries, we can reduce the time a patient would spend in the emergency room or hospital or even eliminate the need for hospitalization if the exam returns positive results," Hill said.

While the new technology immediately benefits patients, it also enhances the teamwork and collaboration between the Shands Radiology Department and UF College of Medicine cardiovascular team.

"The addition of this equipment is a major component in what we are building here – a world-class radiology program that combines outstanding diagnostic capabilities with the delivery of excellent cardiovascular care," said Anthony Mancuso, M.D., a UF College of Medicine professor and chair of radiology.

"As we continue to build our program, our patients will reap the benefits that a strong interdisciplinary relationship can provide. While the addition of the new scanner is indicative of our commitment to providing the best in medical science, the collaboration between departments and physicians with different backgrounds and specialties truly makes the program complete."

Within the Shands HealthCare system of nine hospitals and more than 80 clinical practices in north Florida, 64-slice CT imaging is available at Shands at UF and Shands Jacksonville, the system’s two academic medical centers.

For Healthcare Professionals

Affiliations

Businesses and Insurers

Consultation Center

Continuing Medical Education

Credentialing & Provider Enrollment

Drug Information Center

Identity and Access Management

Medical Services

National Provider Identifier

Shands Medical Laboratories