Until now, physicians had only flat screen images to interpret and diagnose problems in patients. New 3-D diagnostic imaging technology at Western Baptist Hospital has changed all of that. This 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.

According to Dr. Harold Halfhill, radiologist at Western Baptist Hospital, this technology allows physicians to see a three-dimensional image of a tumor, examine blood vessels in search of blockages, and use less invasive procedures to see inside the body.

“Before this technology was introduced, a patient may have had to schedule multiple visits to the hospital and have several different scans taken,” says Dr. Halfhill.

The images are produced by an advanced CAT scanner that produces 16 images 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.

Dr. Halfhill adds that the 16-slice scanner also improves the detection of abnormal pathology at earlier stages. “Being able to identify problems at earlier stages significantly increases recovery. This is perhaps the greatest benefit of the new technology to the patient,” he notes.

Mike Tutor, coordinator of Western Baptist Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging Department, says the addition of the new scanning technology is another way Western Baptist Hospital is revolutionizing its diagnostic imaging services.

“We are the first in the region to have 16-slice technology, and we are dedicated to having the best possible imaging,” says Tutor. “The hospital has provided extensive training to ensure that the best possible image is received.”

Western Baptist plans to add a second multi-slice scanner later this fall to meet increased demand. Earlier this year, Western Baptist introduced 3-D imaging technology for use in neurosurgical procedures and in OB ultrasound.

To learn more about advances in diagnostic imaging at Western Baptist Hospital, call Baptist Health Line at 270-575-2918 or visit us online at www.westernbaptist.com.

Celebrate 50 years of care and compassion with Western Baptist. Join us for a Hospital Birthday Bash
on Wednesday, October 22, from 2 to 5 p.m., in the atrium of our Doctors Office Building 2.