DIAGNOSTIC CT

Affiliated PET Systems, LLC (“APS”) holds a Certificate of Accreditation from
the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission CT / ICACTL in the areas of Body CT.

In addition to performing the highest quality PET/CT imaging, APS also performs Computed Axial Tomography scans (also known as CT or CAT scans) which uses a combination of X-rays and a computer to create detailed 3D images (pictures) of internal organs, bones, and other tissues.  CT scans show more detail than a regular X-ray and can be performed on any part of the body.  CT scanning is useful for screening diseases, to diagnose a potential illness, or to detect injuries and abnormalities of the body.  CT scans are quick, painless, and noninvasive and are usually completed within 5-10 minutes.

APS operates a 16-slice CT scanner that is fully capable of performing routine body CT imaging of the head, neck, chest, abdomen and pelvis, as well as, CTA studies for indications such as Pulmonary Embolism (PE).  A CTA scan (Computed Tomography Angiography) is a special kind of CT exam that focuses particularly on the blood vessels, using a contrast material to make them show up clearly in the images.  CTA is used to examine blood vessels in the brain, neck, chest, and abdomen.

Patients whose doctors order both a PET/CT and Diagnostic CT scan will have the convenience of arranging both tests to be completed on the same day at APS, without moving onto another scanner or going to another facility.  Having both tests completed at the same time and same scanner also provides the opportunity for perfect fusion of the PET and Diagnostic CT images.

Additionally, if a patient has a stand-alone Diagnostic CT scan completed at APS that detects an abnormal growth such as a tumor, and for which a PET/CT scan is required/ordered and performed at APS – all the patient’s images and medical records will be located at the same facility providing additional convenience and consistent/compassionate care to the patient.

Computed tomography of human brain - large.png
Computed tomography of human brain, from base of the skull to top. Taken with intravenous contrast medium.

CT FAQ

  • The Diagnostic CT is a separate study from the PET/CT.
  • A Diagnostic CT scan may be performed with or without IV and/or Oral Contrast agents.
  • Recent BUN and Creatinine levels will be required for the use of IV Contrast in patients that are over the age of 65 and/or diabetic and/or with a history of renal dysfunction.
  • “Neck CT” covers soft tissues from first cervical vertebra to thoracic inlet.
  • “Chest CT” includes lungs, pleural space, mediastinum, and heart.
  • “Abdomen CT” scans from the dome of the liver to the iliac crests so as to image the liver, pancreas, spleen, adrenal glands, biliary tree, and kidneys.
  • “Pelvic CT” scans from iliac crests to the ischia to image the bladder, prostate, rectum, and gynecologic organs.