Single CT scan could diagnose heart disease.A comprehensive diagnosis of heart disease could be possible with a single computed tomography scan Computed tomography scan (CT scan)A specialized type of x-ray imaging that uses highly focused and relatively low energy radiation to produce detailed two-dimensional images of soft tissue structures, particularly the brain. , according to a report that appeared in the March 4 issue of Circulation. Comprehensive heart disease diagnosis is difficult. Clinicians at most cardiovascular centers traditionally have relied on several imaging modalities and although CT can provide images of heart structures, it cannot detect blood flow. Researchers at the Medical University of South Carolina “MUSC” redirects here. For Abel Santa María airport in Santa Clara, Cuba (ICAO code MUSC), see Abel Santa María Airport. The Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, S.C., developed a dual-source CT scanner CT scanner n. See CAT scanner. technique that enables comprehensive diagnosis of heart disease based on a single CT scan CT scan: see CAT scan. See CAT scan. . They added two x-ray spectra to gain a static image of the coronary arteries Coronary arteries The two main arteries that provide blood to the heart. The coronary arteries surround the heart like a crown, coming out of the aorta, arching down over the top of the heart, and dividing into two branches. and the heart muscle. This dual-energy technique helps to map the blood distribution within the heart muscle and pinpoint areas with decreased blood supply. CT scans are less invasive than other techniques, and a single-scan technique would provide considerable cost savings, as well as greater convenience and reduced radiation exposure for patients, according to the researchers. |
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