Showing posts with label Xrays. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Xrays. Show all posts

1/17/11

What Does CT Software Do?

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Computed Tomography Scan, or a CT scan creates 3D images by processing many 2D X-ray images. This type of scan (or modality) is another method of scanning the body to help see problems, abnormalities and poor health for diagnosis and treatment. It is also sometimes known as a CAT scan. It is a simple and straightforward scan that is non-invasive and can therefore be delivered on an outpatient basis. In more detail, it involves the capturing of a series of X-ray views taken from many different angles within the body to produce many different images of the cross section of the bones and soft tissue in the body. It goes much further than an X-ray can by providing in-depth pictures of the organs, tissue, blood vessels and bones in the body. The 2D cross sectional images provided are then subjected to further processing by the software to provide clear 3D images for analysis. 

In a typical X-ray process, the body is subjected to a small dose of radiation, some of which gets absorbed by the body and then projected onto photographic film. In a CT scan however, many X-ray beams are exposed to the body, and X-ray detectors are used to measure the amount of radiation being absorbed. The person within the scanner will have the X-ray beam rotate around their body so it follows a spiral path. The multiple images taken of the body from this examination are then processed by specialist software to produce a 3D image of the body's interior. This image will then be processed by a radiologist and passed on to the relevant physician or group of physicians for further action and treatment of the patient. 

CT scans are often called upon for quick examination of a patient who has been in a serious accident where injuries could well be internal. Car accidents or other serious traumas for example can often result in internal bleeding or swelling in the brain that won't be immediately obvious and will need a CT scan to diagnose. It is possible for doctors to closely examine the brain using a computed topographical scan so any abnormalities or even very slight problems can be detected. Further to examining the brain, a CT scan is also ideal for revealing muscle and bone disorders including breaks and fractures, internal bleeding and other serious internal injuries, cancerous tumors, infections and blood clots as well as heart disease and other serious illnesses. CT scans can even be an assistance during surgeries, biopsies or radiation therapy treatment by working as a guide. 

The technology with regard to CT scans and software has progressed over the years and now this form of scanning is one of the most effective and efficient ways of examining the body from the inside, enabling doctors to see various cancers, abnormalities and internal health problems. Many serious illnesses and conditions do not have external symptoms for a long time, so CT scans enable them to be caught and treated much earlier than they otherwise would be. Medical imaging such as these types of scans make correct diagnosis easier for doctors too as the clear images provided leave little room for doubt when diagnosing an illness. 

CT software plays a crucial part in the field of medicine. Without being able to see the interior of the body a whole host of illnesses and problems would go undiagnosed. Doctors across many different fields use medical imaging solutions such as CT scans regularly and are often the basis of diagnosis of diagnosis of cancers and problems in the brain. A radiologist will initially process the information of a CT scan and will pass the information on to the physician treating the patient. In very interesting cases the data will be reviewed during a tumor board presentation for further action and treatment of the patient involved. There is more chance of successful treatment when an early diagnosis is made.

1/12/11

Digital X-rays: helping to educate younger patients - Dentistry IQ

By Parag R. Kachalia, DDS
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    Children are notorious for their curiosity. They want to know the whys and the hows about everything. That enthusiasm for gathering information can be a great asset to their dental health. Dental radiography can help in this quest. My younger patients, as well as their parents, benefit from the visualization of my explanation that clear, detailed digital X-rays can provide.
One of the most compelling benefits of digital radiography, especially with my sensors (Gendex GXS-700™), is patient education. Kids are accustomed to computers and television. I can imagine that if I held up a small film X-ray, they would overlook the small details that affect my diagnosis. To a child caries on a traditional film may just look like a tiny dot. However, images displayed on my 20-inch monitor show teeth and their conditions maximized to its fullest. I review each image with the patient, or with the patient and parent, pointing out the areas of concern and possible treatment options. Inevitably, all ages are intrigued by the details, and also by the fact that they can actually understand the scope of the dental issues reflected by the X-rays. I can draw on the image to show anything from unerupted teeth and caries involvement to healthy views, to emphasize my diagnosis even more by comparison.
 Younger patients also appreciate that their experience in the dental radiography chair is more comfortable and shorter. My sensors have rounded corners and smooth edges, and they come in two sizes, one that is just right for my younger patients. The Size 1 “pedo” sensor was designed to be closest in size to the most widely used X-ray film for children. The sensor’s shape also facilitates quick movement around the mouth, shortening capture time. With the new sensors, gag reflex problems are far fewer. And, the immediacy of the images fascinates them and gets them more excited about dental visits.
Clear images, two sizes, and direct USB
When I need a consult quickly — in the case of a consultation with the child’s orthodontist (or other specialists for my adult patients) — my team can electronically and securely share the images, and we can discuss the case over the phone so we can get treatment started right away. The same is true for sending information to patients and insurance companies.
Children and adults need to understand what is happening, so they will want to follow through with proper dental treatment and care. When patients leave my office, they are not thinking about their treatment and asking why I suggested it; they are thinking about their future dental health and asking why not?
  Dr. Kachalia is an assistant professor at the University of the Pacific, School of Dentistry. He is the director of new technologies and is a faculty member within Pacific’s prestigious complex and esthetic rehabilitation program. He is a researcher, published author, and speaks internationally on restorative dentistry, CAD/CAM dentistry, and dental technologies. He maintains a private practice in San Ramon, Calif., with his wife, Dr. Charity Duncan-Kachalia, and is a member of the Pride Institute Technology Leadership Council.
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