About Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT
Mahajan Imaging & Labs is the first to install India’s first Dual Energy CT Scanner with Cardiac Spectral Imaging capabilities ‘Discovery CT750-HD FREEdom Edition.’
The GSI Spectral CT makes it possible to visualize blocked stents (re-stenosis), something that was not possible earlier. It can provide information about myocardial perfusion and help clinicians make a more informed decision about further treatment.
With the advent of 16, 64, 128 and 256 slice CT scanners, diagnosis of coronary heart disease reached an all-time high, since these machines enabled visualisation of the heart and its vessels in great detail non-invasively allowing radiologists and cardiologists to find out the condition of the coronary vessels. But this was not without its problems. Many times, it would not be possible to see the condition of the vessels because calcium deposits in them would obscure the view. Also, even if the blockage was visible, it was difficult to tell what kind of deposit the patient had. This Dual Energy Spectral CT scanner actually shifts the CT paradigm beyond slices and enables visualisation of the coronaries with dramatic clarity using much less radiation exposure. Till today, CT scanning could only show the disease, now it is possible to tell the clinician what it is made of so as to enable him to plan targeted treatment. CT coronary angiography can now be confidently promoted as a screening tool for people with risk factors for heart disease since the radiation exposure is very low with this system and the information obtained is clear and precise.
Here are some of the other advantages of dual-energy CT:
- Patients with relatively high or irregular pulse rates can also be taken up for CT coronary angiography, with adequate diagnostic results.
- Patients with high calcium in coronary arteries are also scanned with better results.
- The orthopaedic cases with metallic implants are also better scanned with fewer artifacts and smoother images for improved diagnostic accuracy.
- There is a special role for dual-energy spectral scans in patients with kidney stones, for characterizing the chemical composition of the stone.
- In gout patients, there is a special role in dual-energy scans for detecting uric acid crystals.
The introduction of this technology in India is a testament to the fact that India is at par with the best in the world as far as radiology services go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’S)
A Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT is generally considered safe as it uses advanced imaging technology to acquire detailed scans through minimal radiation exposure. At Mahajan Imaging & Labs, we ensure that our scanners adhere to the highest safety standards.
Typically, no special preparation is required for a Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT scan. However, some scans may need fasting for a contrast dye injection. Consultation with a healthcare provider or the center is required before appearing for the examination.
Duration may vary depending on the type of scan and the waiting time at the centre. However, a Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT scan typically takes between 5 minutes to 1.5 hours.
At Mahajan Imaging & Labs, results from a Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT Scan, typically becomes available within 24 to 30 working hours of the scan being done. We strive to provide you with prompt and detailed diagnostic feedback.
Certainly, a Dual Energy Spectral CT (DECT) is effective in detecting blood clots, kidney stones, and tumours. It distinguishes stone types as tumours are characterized based on tissue differentiation, and clot detection in blood vessels is improved.
A Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT scan is highly recommended in patients for detailed imaging, for certain complex conditions and diseases, like cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. As the eligibility for a Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT scan primarily depends on the medical need of the patient, the healthcare professional will further assess whether scanning is appropriate or not based on the patient’s clinical history and health condition.
Certainly, a Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT can easily detect early-stage diseases. As early detection can improve treatment outcomes, its advanced imaging capabilities help in accessing better differentiation of tissues, to identify abnormalities in early stages for conditions like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and certain bone disorders.
Generally, a Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT scan uses same level or at times even lower level of radiation than a standard CT scan and is considered to be safe.
Certainly, a referral from a healthcare provider is needed for a Dual Energy GSI Spectral CT scan. This ensures a better evaluation of the patient's medical history and helps in determining whether the scan is appropriate or not. At Mahajan Imaging & Labs, we follow this protocol to provide safe and effective imaging services.