New & Improved CT Scanner at PLHS

Wednesday, June 29, 2016
Vicki Thiesen, Jenna Hulscher, Tom Beaudry, and Tyler (Walter) Shoultz.
Vicki Thiesen, Jenna Hulscher, Tom Beaudry, and Tyler (Walter) Shoultz.

Prairie Lakes Healthcare System (PLHS) is proud to announce a new Toshiba Aquilion Prime 80 row, 128 slice equivalent  CT scanner is operational in the Radiology Department.

“The CT scans performed by the Radiology Department at PLHS are increasing. Staff performed 6,070 CT scans June, 2015 – May, 2016 compared to 4,737 CT scans June, 2014 – May, 2015,” said Jill Fuller, PLHS President and CEO. “The innovative technology of the new CT scanner improves the CT scan experience for patients and provides staff and physicians a high quality image to interpret.”

Returning patients will notice substantial improvements in the CT scanner suite and how long they’ll be asked to hold their breath. With the old CT scanner, patients held their breath for up to 30 seconds at a time. The new system cuts that time by up to 75%. 

Patients with metal implants will no longer have compromised exams due to the metal in their body. Toshiba’s SEMAR metal artifact reduction software utilizes a sophisticated reconstruction algorithm to reduce artifacts caused by metal while improving visualization of the implant and surrounding bone and soft tissue structures.

The new CT scanner comes equipped with the ability to shut off the x-ray beam when it passes over sensitive organs like the eyes, thyroid and breasts while maintaining the diagnostic integrity of the study.  Other improved qualities include a larger patient opening, a 660 pound weight capacity, improved pediatric imaging with an interactive screen, and a lower radiation dosage by 40-70% on every exam.

“Thanks to PLHS improving technology by purchasing the CT scanner, my staff can offer the very best to our patients. Enhanced imaging and notably faster scans increases effectiveness in emergency and trauma situations,” said Tom Beaudry, Radiology Director. “The public is increasingly concerned with radiation exposure, especially with CT scans.  Prairie Lakes’ patients now have peace of mind knowing they are receiving the lowest dose possible.”