Press Release

16 Slice CT Scanner Offers Advanced Images

People in Onawa and surrounding communities don’t have to travel far to gain the high tech benefits of an advanced CT scanner.

Burgess Health Center has acquired a new 16 multi-slice CT scanner that gives physicians more detailed information than ever before for diagnosis and treatment.

The faster scan times increasing patient comfort, too, says Radiology’s Jenny Coble. Patients now must hold their breath for 10 to 15 seconds. The previous scanner called for patients to hold their breath for twice as long.

“Our cancer patients that come back for check-ups notice it’s quicker and more comfortable,” says Coble. “They don’t have to lie on the table as long.”

The Siemens Somotom Emotion CT scanner is used mostly for exams of the head, chest, abdomen and pelvis, says Coble. Its faster scanning is especially helpful for seniors, children and emergency patients.

“We also can reconstruct a 3-D image of the body to obtain still more information,” says Coble. “The images are amazing. Physicians love the new CT scanner because they receive thinner slices with more detailed images of a patient’s anatomy. They could tell a difference right away between our new images and the scans from our previous scanner.”

The previous scanner basically provided a one slide view of patient images, says Coble.
“High quality CT scans are a vital tool in healthcare today,” says Dr. John Terry. “The new CT scanner represents our commitment to moving forward with state-of-the-art technology at Burgess.”

In addition to the new CT scanner, Burgess has added other advanced technology including 4D ultrasound unit for newborns and the computerized “Second Look” breast screening system. More is on the way. The Radiology Department, under the medical direction of radiologist Dr. John Terry, will move into updated and expanded quarters as part of the hospital renovation project now underway.