Abstract This paper examines whether or not it is convenient for a local hospital to acquire an ultimate technology medical device, mainly a PET/CT scanning system. The paper discusses the benefits and threats of implementing such a device. According to the paper, the PET/CT is one of the latest technological devices in the medical world and is expected to give magnificent results in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases.
From the Paper "Since a first glance it might be assumed the fact that PET/CT would bring some important benefits to the patients' status and living. Even though, a great disadvantage might be represented by the high cost of the equipment, which has only allowed large hospitals to achieve it Moreover, in order for the very ill persons to be helped, UPMC has developed a mobile PET/CT unit that can be brought next to them. In this way the same equipment is able to be used by more than one clinic and its cost might be shared among them. "The Mobile PET/CT unit is identical to the stationary units, except that the equipment is mounted in a tractor trailer which is parked outside the network locations. Scans are scheduled with your oncologist, and the actual procedure takes place in the trailer" . "
Abstract This paper describes the different types of artifacts seen in CT scans and their origins and causes. The paper then examines and discusses preventative measures to reduce these artifacts. This paper also contains corresponding illustrations.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Type of Artifacts
1. Physics Based Artifacts
a. Beam Hardening
b. Partial Volume
c. Photon Starvation
d. Undersampling
2. Patient Based Artifacts
3. Scanner Based Artifacts
4. Helical and Multisection CT Artifacts
5. Artifacts Due to Other Causes
Methods to Resolve Artifacts
References
From the Paper "Metal artifacts can be avoided by asking the patient to remove any metals like jewelry before the start of scanning. For metals like prosthetic devices, surgical clips and dental fillings, which cannot be removed for the scanning, gantry angulation can be used. If the metal object cannot be excluded by any of the above technique, increasing the kilovoltage and the use of thin sections can reduce the partial volume artifact. The use of special software corrections can reduce streaking due to overranging (Barrett and Keat 2004.)
"Patient-based artifacts due to movement can be prevented by appropriate means. For most patients, the use of positioning aids can prevent any voluntary movement. However, in some patients, especially in the pediatric age-group, sedation may be required to immobilize them. In order to minimize artifacts in areas where natural movement is present, a short scan time can be used."
Abstract Explores its uses for tumors of the head and neck, the importance of CT scans for diagnosis and follow-up for monitoring responses to treatment. Examines the limitations in their use in planning of head and neck radiotherapy.
From the Paper Computed tomography scans (CT) have found wide application in many fields, and particularly in neurosurgery, where they can give the surgeon detailed information about the brain (Wilkins, 1996). Tumors of the head and neck can be treated with high ..."
An analysis of Coronary CT, explaining why it may eliminate the need for non-interventional heart catheterization, and stands ready to serve as the preliminary choice for diagnostic evaluation of the native coronary vessels.
Abstract The paper explains how our society is increasingly at risk; the number of fatalities each year from coronary artery disease continues to rise in spite of efforts to educate the populace on methods to reduce risk factors. The paper lists the steps that must be taken to identify those individuals at risk and provide them with treatment options. The paper identifies angiography as providing the best method of coronary evaluation available, and lists the three types currently in use: magnetic resonance, catheter, and computed tomography. The paper analyzes the specific benefits and limitations of each type. Of the three, the paper finds that computed tomographic angiography (CTA) provides the greatest versatility and has the least associated risks and limitations, and also provides the greatest volume of information and detail. In conclusion, the paper anticipates that the CTA will likely become the diagnostic tool of choice and ultimately supplant catheter angiography.
From the Paper "The super-sized, rapid paced, high stress society we inhabit contributes daily to the demise of our fellow citizens. The epidemic rise of obesity and diabetes compounds the risk of America's number one killer: heart disease. The number of Americans succumbing to heart disease will nearly double from 500,000 in 2002 to 930,000 in 2005. The cost to treat cardiovascular patients in 2005 will cap at just under $400 billion (Kazerooni, 2005). Emphasis on risk reduction should be made, but it falls short of real impact. Steps must be taken to diagnose patients at risk and provide treatment options appropriate to their level of disease."
Abstract This paper presents an overview of carpal tunnel syndrome. The paper examines the cause of the syndrome and the ergonomic changes that can help prevent its occurrence. In addition the paper presents diagrams to illustrate where it impacts the body.
Contents:
Introduction
Statistics About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Cause
Types of Jobs That Cause CTS OSHA
Examples From Occupations
Solutions to Reduce The Risk of CTS Ergonomic Guidelines for CTS Effects of Other Risk Factors
From the Paper "The Occupational Safety and Health Administration organization has looked at Carpal Tunnel syndrome for many years and has developed a list of guidelines for employers to use when trying to prevent the occurrence of the syndrome in their workforce. At this time it is not mandatory to comply with the guidelines but employers who do so will find they have a reduced incidence of claims which in the long run will be extremely cost effective. In addition by implementing the guidelines set out by OSHA on a voluntary basis it will help reduce the claims thereby encouraging OSHA not to mandate but to allow voluntary participation in the guideline implementations.
The one thing that OSHA does want to mandate is what happens to a worker who has been diagnosed by a physician as having Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. "
Abstract The paper explains that multislice CT angiography is a potentially useful and cost-effective, non-invasive diagnostic modality. The paper discusses multislice angiography's diagnostic accuracy in different diseases, including cerebral vascular disease, aneurysms, pulmonary embolism, coronary artery disease and peripheral vascular disease. The paper also points out that multislice CT angiography's technology is quickly outpacing the conventional angiography. The paper notes, however, that some surgeons still prefer the time-tested angiography in spite of its invasive nature, discomfort to the patient and potential risk for hemorrhage.
Outline:
Introduction
Diagnostic Accuracy in Different Diseases
Future Developments of Multislice CT Angiography
From the Paper "Conventional angiography is considered as the golden standard technique in vascular imaging. Its main attributes include real-time visualization of target vessels, which makes it ideal not only for direct visualization of the vasculature of any accessible organ, but also for conducting therapeutic procedures. This provides angiography procedures with the distinct advantage of being able to diagnose and treat vascular diseases with one procedure. This comes at a cost. Another main attribute of angiography is its invasive nature. Most procedures involve gaining vascular access through the femoral artery, which presents as a potential problem post-procedure. While local pressure and close post-procedure monitoring can prevent life-threatening hemorrhaging, subjecting patients to seemingly unnecessary invasive procedures has prompted the development of other imaging modalities to match the real-time precision of angiographic imaging as well as remain non-invasive."
This paper discusses computer tomography, an X-ray technique that is used to produce very detailed images of internal organs, commonly know as a CT, CT scan, or CAT.
Abstract This paper explains that, while conventional X-ray exams produce two-dimensional images, CT scans use an X-ray-sensing unit that rotates around the body and a large computer to create cross-sectional images of the inside of your body. The author points out that the paranasal sinuses, a complex three-dimensional structure, prior to the use of CAT, could only be viewed through dangerous surgery; however, now with CAT, they can be viewed by computer-aided, image-guided, endoscopic sinus surgery avoiding surgical pitfalls. The paper relates that there can be risks associated with CAT scans similar to the risks of conventional rays; however, doctors and other scientists believe that CAT scans provide enough valuable information to outweigh the associated risks of radiation.
Table of Contents
Brief History
Benefits for Computer Tomography
How Does Computer Tomography Work?
Risks of Computerized Tomography
Conclusion
From the Paper "During its brief history, advancements for computerized tomography have made great improvements in speed, patient comfort, and resolution. As scan times have gotten faster, more anatomy can be scanned more quickly and more efficiently. The extreme speed of scanning allows the elimination of artifacts from patient motion such as normal breathing. Faster scanning helps to eliminate artifacts from patient motion such as breathing or peristalsis. CT exams are even now quicker and more patient friendly than ever before. Tremendous research and development has been made to provide exceptional image quality for a diagnostic guarantee of the lowest possible x-ray dose."
This paper highlights the advances in imaging technology that have allowed scientists to discover how memory works and the areas of the brain involved.
Abstract This paper looks at how the different advances in brain imaging-techniques have contributed to scientists increased ability to understand the concept of memory. It looks at the advent of Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET), and what they have meant to the increased ability to understand and treat brain, and memory disorders.
From the Paper "For example, fMRI was found useful for research by Awh and colleagues (1999) to observe brain activations during the performance of a spatial working memory task. In this investigation, subjects were given a spatial working memory task and a control task. Using fMRI the researchers found a functionally distinct, region that showed sustained activity during the spatial working memory task, confirming the location for the neural bases for that function. In the past, researchers who wanted detailed studies of human brain activity struggled because they lacked effective investigative tools. In experiments with humans the best technologies brought only limited success in mapping the processes of consciousness."
A look at how the technique of PET (positron emission tomography) has advanced both our ability to diagnose brain injury and our knowledge of localisation of function within the brain.
Abstract This paper examines the technique of positron emission tomography, a technique used for imaging brain activity by measuring the flow of blood containing radioactive atoms that emit positrons. It describes the uses of PET scanning as a research tool and in the diagnosis of brain injuries. It also compares PET to other similar methods such as MRI scanning, x-raying and CT scanning.
From the Paper "In particular, PET has been used with great success in the study of which parts of the human brain are involved in language. With the assistance of positron emission tomography, studies have shown striking evidence that there are several independent regions of the brain involved in language. Among these areas that are crucial for language and speech are Wernicke's and Broca's regions. Due to the use of these non-invasive techniques (PET, MRI etc.) we now know that these regions are significantly spread out and are not located near the conventional language regions. We can see in scans from patients that different regions of the brain are used for specific tasks. Eg. a patient hearing words, reading words and seeing words uses very different parts of the brain for each task. (Delcomyn; 1998)."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses the medical practice known as autopsy. This paper looks at the conventional type of autopsy and compares it to the virtual autopsy (virtopsy), that is performed using CT scans and MRI. The writer discusses that while MRI is currently only in the investigative stages, it has the potential of replacing many autopsies in the next 10-15 years. The writer claims that this could be the case particularly in the field of forensics. The writer looks at the benefits of using MRI, offering the example that MRI could be especially useful in cultures and religions which forbid or do not readily accept conventional autopsies.
From the Paper "An autopsy is the postmortem examination of the body to determine the cause of death and is performed by a pathologist. The autopsy is performed by a government coroner or medical examiner in a case where death is believed to be the result of foul play. Coroners and medical examiners are known as forensic pathologists and the branch of medicine dealing with unnatural causes of death is known as forensic medicine. Autopsies are done to advance medical knowledge and to provide evidence in legal matters regarding unnatural deaths."
Abstract Discusses the unknown cause of this common cancer and the imaging techniques used to detect prostate cancer, including computer tomography (CT) scans. Examines how CT scans work and how the scan is done on a patient.
From the Paper "The prostate gland lies in the pelvis just beneath the bladder and surrounds the middle section of the urethra (Berkow, Beers and Fletcher, 1997). The combined secretions of the prostate and the seminal gland which lies above it provide the fluid which ..."
Abstract The paper explains the anatomy of attenuation and how it is used in ultrasound scans to determine to a higher degree the image quality of a CT scan. The paper looks at several studies on CT imaging results and the use of attenuation-corrected images.
From the Paper "Attenuation means a reduction in intensity and amplitude in a radio signal. Radio signals are used in medicine in the medium of ultrasound. Measured in decibels (dB) per unit length of medium, attenuation is represented by the coefficient of the medium in question (dB/cm, dB/km, and so forth) (Zagzebski 3).
"Attenuation is used in ultrasound physics and is the reduction of the beam amplitude, as a function of the distance it goes through the medium being imaged. One has to account for attenuation effects because reduced signal amplitude affects the image quality. By adjusting the amplitude to account for the attenuation in the ultrasound beam going through the medium, loss of energy at the desired depth is achieved (Bushong 2)."
Abstract Discusses early development, methods, radiology and traditional x-rays. Covers digital imaging and x-rays, computer tomography scans (CT), positron emission tomograpohy (PET) tomography and gamma rays, and thermography.
From the Paper "The first imaging techniques developed for medicine, x-rays, were discovered in 1985 by William Roentgen, and they were first used in medicine in 1896 (Lentle and Aldrich, 1997). Early radiology was chiefly concerned with skeletal morphology."
Abstract This paper examines the system most suited for the use of evaluation of the catheter positioning in the chest of the patient in the intensive therapy unit environment. Traditionally, these images are difficult to process. The paper determines whether the images produced through digital radiography or those produced through computed radiography are optimal in terms of the best system in order to reduce risk to the patient due to higher radiation doses or incorrect positioning.
From the Paper "The Department of nuclear medicine and diagnostic Imaging, at Kyoto University School of Medicine and the physicians named as Tadamura, Kubo, Yamamuro, and Konishi wrote in their work that "Nuclear cardiology has played a significant role in the diagnosis and risk stratification of patients with coronary artery disease. MRI and multidector-row CT (MDCT) has recently been introduced in the filed of clinical cardiology. For the management of patients with suspected coronary artery disease, it is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of various imaging modalities. Tadamura, Kubo, Yamamuro, & Konishi (1998). The work entitled "Digital Imaging with a Photostimulable Phosphor in the Chest of Newborns" states that when comparing imaging of newborn mediastinum, lung bones, and soft tissues the images ere "significantly better on computed radiographs than on half-exposure computed radiographs and that visualization of the lungs, bones and soft tissues was statically significantly better on screen-film radiographs than half-exposure computed radiographs."
This paper discusses the use of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans to reduce the need for exploratory surgery and other invasive techniques and to target better radiation therapy in cancer patients.
Abstract This paper explains that Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scanning is an advanced imaging technique that can differentiate between malignant lesions and benign lesions in almost every process in cancer diagnosis, staging and treatment because PET is more sensitive than CT scanning or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) techniques. The author explains that for PET scanning, the patient is injected with positron emitting radionuclides and placed in a tube and surrounded by a ring of detectors; when one of these high-energy photon rays is detected, the source location can be determined and mapped by a specialized software package. The paper relates that, after radiation and surgery there is considerable damage to surrounding tissue; therefore, it is often difficult to distinguish living cancer cells from morphological changes caused by surgery or tissue death caused by radiation; however, because dead tissue and cancer cells have different glucose metabolism rates, they are easy to distinguish by PET imaging.
Table of Contents
Improving Outcomes for Radiation Therapy
How PET Scanning Works
Radiation Therapy
Using PET to Analyze the Effectiveness of Radiation Treatments
From the Paper "Because PET scanning is based on glucose levels, it is important that these be controlled prior to the scan. Patients are usually told to fast for 4-6 hours prior to the test. However, they can drink water and take any medications that they are on. The goal is to get the base glucose level lower than 160 mg/dL before administering the FDG or other isotope. Patients with diabetes should continue their routine of eating small meals and taking their insulin. Then these small inconveniences, PET imaging is non-invasive and causes little discomfort to the patient."
