A “computerized tomography” CT Machine takes a series of X-ray slices of the body in order to produce a 3D internal image. It has many different uses, including diagnosing lung, liver, and pancreatic cancer. When discussing CT Machines, the scanners are differentiated by the number of slices they have. The slice number correlates to the space between the slices. A lot of people wonder about the differences in lower slice CT Machines versus higher slice CT Machines, and the confusion can lead to a common question.
“The higher the slice number, the better the CT Machine, correct?”
It depends. Fewer slices mean more space between the slices and therefore a larger chance of missing something, as well as a tedious scan.
However, the better CT Machine would depend on the patient. If the patient is healthy, with a low heart rate, there would be no need for a higher slice CT scan, as they’d be able to hold their breath for the length of the scan.
The reality is that some patients are unhealthy, and cannot hold their breath for long, which means they’d need a higher slice CT machine.
It also has to do with cost and radiation. A 256 slice machine, for example, would be much more expensive and have much more radiation than a 16 slice CT, but would produce higher resolution images. A higher slice CT can produce an image of a heart in a single beat, but it all depends on the physician if higher cost and the risk of excess radiation is worth better quality images.
In the end, weighing the pros and cons, doing your research, and talking to an expert here at Amber will be your best bet.
Hopefully, this blog post has answered your key questions regarding CT slice numbers. For all of your other CT scan machine concerns, Amber Diagnostics’ highly trained professionals are here to help you in every step of the purchasing process. We offer custom warranty and financing options for all our customers.
At Amber Diagnostics our trained professionals have been refurbishing used imaging equipment since 1994. We are more than capable of handling all questions and services throughout the purchasing process including room planning, shipping, installation, and training. Our warranties and financing can be customized to fit your facility’s needs and budgets. Click here to receive a call from our experts.
