As our world becomes increasingly digitally-oriented, Western Baptist Hospital is grasping the power of the internet and other technologies to enhance its patient-care capabilities.

One such advancement lies in 3D diagnostic imaging technology. This exciting new advancement allows physicians to view internal structures of the body as they actually appear, reducing repeat hospital visits and improving early diagnoses, treatment and recovery for patients. Prior to this advancement, physicians had only flat screen images to interpret and diagnose problems in patients.

The images are produced by an advanced CAT scanner that produces 16 or 64images with every rotation for a total of 38 images per second. With higher speeds and more rotations, the multi-slice scanner can image parts of the body with greater precision and resolution. Additionally, the scanners improve the detection of abnormal pathology at earlier stages.

Digital Imaging is another technological advancement that is providing Western Baptist physicians and staff greater quality in patient care. Rather than walking cassettes from place to place, images are transmitted directly to the radiologist. Within seconds, the radiologist can access the image on the computer screen, read it, and make notations on the record for the patient’s doctor. The referring physician also has the capability to immediately review the X-ray if needed.

What used to be a 10-minute procedure, can now be completed in 2-3 minutes, making the biggest saving of the patient’s time both in emergency and non-emergency situations.