The new 64-slice CT scanner can detect strokes, head injuries, herniated discs, fractures and bone and soft tissue damage in trauma patients.�The scan also can be used for diagnosing heart disease and early stage cancers, including lung and colorectal cancer.�Studies have found that when cancer is detected at an early, localized stage, survival rates improve significantly.

"This CT scanner will reduce the need for some patients to undergo more involved procedures to diagnose common health problems," said DiAnne Wallace, director of Piedmont Fayette Hospital's radiology imaging services.�"The SOMATOM Sensation CT scanner will further enable our physicians to provide quality healthcare by identifying certain diseases earlier and more precisely."

The 64-slice CT scanner provides detailed pictures of the body and its organs. Patients are placed on a gurney inside the CT scanner. X-ray beams then rotate 360 degrees around the patient while scanning detailed "slices," or pictures, of the body.�Based on data obtained during the scan, a computer generates final diagnostic images.�Thousands of images can be captured in just seconds.

After receiving the images, physicians can zoom in on certain parts of the body.�For instance, doctors can glimpse inside the heart and coronary arteries to assess plaque build-up, or look into the intestinal wall to rule out the presence of cancer-causing polyps.

The SOMATOM model reduces the level of radiation exposed to patients.�The CT scanner also increases patient comfort by eliminating the closed-in feeling associated with traditional CT scanners.

"We are proud to be one of only eight hospitals in the nation and the first in the metro Atlanta area to offer this imaging technology," said Scott Faith, M.D., medical director of radiology.�"The acquisition of this CT scanner is another example of Piedmont Fayette Hospital's continued commitment to provide the most advanced healthcare to our patients."

For more information about Piedmont Fayette Hospital's radiology services, visit www.fayettehospital.org or call 770-719-7169.

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