Cardiologists at Saint Francis Medical Center are working with breakthrough technology to detect and diagnose cardiovascular disease. Capable of capturing thousands of detailed 3-D images in seconds, the new 64-slice computerized tomography (CT) scanner offers doctors complete visualization of the heart and coronary arteries in moments.

"This technology opens new diagnostic doors for heart care," says Billy A.F. Hammond, MD, FACC, a cardiologist on staff at Saint Francis. "With amazing speed and clarity, a 64-slice CT scan detects even the smallest coronary artery blockage and allows us to see the motion and pumping action of the heart."

During the scan a thin beam of X-rays moves rapidly around the chest and captures multiple images from different angles to create a cross-sectional picture. The X-ray beam is read by an electronic detector, which then records the information and feeds it into a computer.

With the capacity to obtain 64 views in a single rotation around a patient's body, this technology allows physicians to determine a diagnosis and a treatment more decisively than ever. In an instant, they now have access to detailed views and information, previously unavailable without invasive surgery or diagnostic procedures performed under anesthesia in a catheterization lab.

"In the past, diagnostic tests – like stress testing – were used to assess a patient's relative risk of having coronary artery disease," explains Hammond. "With 64-slice CT technology we are able to assess absolute risk and provide appropriate medical treatment to reduce the risk of acute heart attack if necessary."

The 64-slice CT exam is quick, simple and painless – particularly important for elderly or trauma patients troubled with holding their breath. Patients with symptoms of heart disease or unclear results from other noninvasive tests stand to benefit the most from a 64-slice CT.

From Weekly Health Page: April 23, 2006