PULMONARY INVESTIGATIONS-HELICAL CT (hCT)

SUMMARY

1. Works by shooting x-rays in a continuous helical rotation using slip rings instead of cables.

2. Two types: Single-section hCT & Multidetector hCT (MDCT).

3. Beware that, unless contraindicated, IV contrast dye is used with hCT.

4. Single-section hCT is being replaced by MDCT for CTPA because it sees subsegmental emboli better.

5. MDCT is also replacing HRCT at some hospitals because it provides higher-resolution images of the pulmonary parenchyma.

Reference(s)

Wilkinson, I. (2017). Oxford handbook of clinical medicine. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Hannaman, R. A., Bullock, L., Hatchell, C. A., & Yoffe, M. (2016). Internal medicine review core curriculum, 2017-2018. CO Springs, CO: MedStudy.
Therapeutic Guidelines. Melbourne: Therapeutic Guidelines Limited. https://www.tg.org.au [Accessed 2021].