New CT scanner delivers benefits for patients, radiologists and doctors

Bendigo Radiology, located at St John of God Bendigo Hospital, is excited to introduce the newest CT scanner to its range of imaging equipment.

8 Dec 2022

The GE Apex Revolution CT has many benefits for both the patient, radiologist and referring doctors.

The most significant benefit for the patient is the use of ultra-low dose imaging thanks to artificial intelligence image processing, which reduces the amount of radiation required for a scan. The artificial intelligence image processing also means the quality of the scan is significantly increased, providing a better image which will aid in better clinical outcomes for patients.

In the past, CT machines had difficulties providing high quality images for bariatric patients but the combination of a 16cm detector, deep learning image reconstruction, and a 80cm wide bore ensure that all patients can be provided with high quality images.

The new CT facilitates scanning of patients that have breathing difficulties, cognitive impairments, metal joint replacements, paediatrics and other issues that traditionally have made it difficult to obtain diagnostic scans.

Other key features new to the Bendigo region include Spectral Dual Energy CT technology and 16cm wide coverage axial scanning. Spectral Dual Energy CT is a growing technology being used in a range of cutting-edge diagnostic applications.

It provides the ability for greater lesion detection and Contrast to Noise, higher reporting confidence, lower iodine contrast injection volumes, and the ability to see previously unseen pathologies such as tophaceous gout, renal stone analysis, and bone oedema from CT to name a few. This can be applied for any routine imaging as requested at no increase in radiation dose.

This 16cm wide coverage allows whole organ axial scanning. For cardiac angiograms and calcium scores this means a single axial rotation minimising artefacts and improving image quality when compared to more traditional scan methods.

The implementation of these technologies elevates CT imaging to a new standard, not just within St John of God Bendigo Hospital, but to the wider community and surrounding regions, bringing Bendigo and its services to the forefront of diagnostic imaging on a global scale.