Capitol Imaging Services (CIS) was the first medical facility in the country to have the Hitachi Supria Ultra-Low Dose Computed Tomography (CT) Scanner, which delivers the highest quality image at the lowest possible radiation dose. Its large bore opening offers a more spacious feeling for patients, and a higher table weight limit expands the range of people who can be imaged. The Supria has an opening of 29.5″ (most traditional CT systems have 23.5″-27.5″ openings) and can accommodate people that weigh up to 500 pounds.

One of the primary concerns for our patients is the radiation dosage that they will be subjected to upon receiving a CT scan. CIS offers this ultra-low dose solution in facilities with the Supria to reduce the dosage and ensure the diagnostic scan is safer than even before.

Capitol Imaging Services have been supporters of the national Image Gently and Image Wisely campaigns that promote safety in medical imaging. The Supria is an important piece to that safety puzzle.

When would I get an Ultra-Low Dose CT?

CIS offers an ultra-low dose solution to perform common tests that look for conditions such as brain, pulmonary, bone and cardiovascular complications. A physician or other medical provider may make a recommendation for you to undergo a CT scan for many reasons, including to:

  • detect bone and joint problems, like complex bone fractures and tumors
  • diagnose or see changes in conditions such as cancer, heart disease, emphysema or liver masses
  • identify internal injuries and bleeding, such as those caused by a car accident
  • locate a tumor, blood clot, excess fluid, or infection
  • guide treatment plans and procedures, such as biopsies, surgeries, and radiation therapy
  • monitor any response to certain treatments or therapies such as if chemotherapy or radiation is working to eliminate a cancerous tumor.

What Will I Experience?

CT exams are generally painless, fast and easy. When you are positioned into the CT scanner, you may see special light lines projected onto your body. These lines are used to ensure that you are properly positioned. You may hear slight buzzing, clicking and whirring sounds. These occur as the CT scanner's internal parts, not usually visible to you, revolve around you during the imaging process.

These internal parts, consisting of several x-ray beams and electronic x-ray detectors, measure the amount of radiation being absorbed throughout your body. The exam table may move during the scan so that the x-ray beam follows a spiral path. Computer software will process large volumes of data to create two-dimensional cross-sectional images of your body.

These images are then displayed on a monitor. CT imaging is sometimes compared to looking into a loaf of bread by cutting the loaf into thin slices. When the image slices are reassembled by computer software, the result is a very detailed multidimensional view of the body's interior.

The time required will depend upon the type of CT scan. If oral contrast is required, about 45 to 60 minutes is needed for the contrast to move through your digestive tract. Actual scan times vary from a few seconds to several minutes.

If no oral contrast is required, more common CT examinations will take about 15 to 30 minutes, including the time for exam preparation and interview. In some cases, additional scanning is required as scans are tailored to suit individual diagnostic needs.