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Chouse lIS Houston ** Hi • Healthcare Fall 2006 (_/ ew Technology in Diagnostic Imaging ... Is State-of-the-Art N ■ wiew technology in the arena of diagnostic imaging such as computed tomography (I T) and magnetic resonance (MRII hat e enabled interventional radiologists to not only diagnose disease, but also otter treatment through minimallv-ivasive, targeted procedures using imaging as a guide. Both Houston Medical Center and Perry Hospital offer a 1.5 Tesla-strength MRI and CT sen ices. Houston Medical Center's new 64-slice CT scanner offers the ability to capture superior, precise images of any area of the body, including the heart and lungs. These diagnostic images help physicians check for suspected heart disease, often eliminating the need for invasive cardiac angiograms. This lev el of equipment allows for better images and a more accurate diagnosis by the radiologist, and benefits the patient by minimizing their exposure to radiation. “The technology that Houston I lealthcare offers is state-of-the art. With the 64-slice C'T scanner, we are now equipped to deliver the latest, non-inv asiv e cardiac exams to our patients. Our new CT is the same CT scanner installed at Johns Hopkins. Typically, this type of equipment is only offered at major medical centers and teaching hospitals such as Emory," says Dr. Ali Shaikh, an interventional radiologist on staff at Houston mm 7 § A Publication of Houston Healthcare • Medical Center and Pern Hospital. "The staff are committed to the patients and dedicated to their jobs." Most recently, interv entional radiologists have made great strides in treating Peripheral Vascular Disease, or PVD. which is the lack of blood flow to the arteries. The build-up of plaque on the inside of the arteries allow s tor less blood to flow to the other areas of the low er bodv. In most \ eases, if an individual has atherosclerosis, or “hardening of the arteries," they are more likely to have it in the arteries that supply blood to the brain and heart. PVD increases the chance of having a heart attack or stroke. "Once the patient has been diagnosed with PVD. their primary care physician will discuss treatment options. A change in diet and increased exercise are always beneficial." says Dr. Garrett G. Ward, an interv entional radiologist on staff at Houston Medical Center and Perry Hospital However, if these changes do not alleviate the pain, w e are able to perform angioplasty which opens the narrowed arteries and redirects the blood flow. Patients are able to walk with less pain and most importantly, the blood circulates to the needed areas of the body." By using imaging, interventional radiologists guide small instruments such as catheters through the blood v essels or other pathways to treat disease. Another example is angiography, an imaging exam of the arteries and veins to diagnose blockages and other blood vessel problems. A contrast agent is used to make www.hhc.org the artery or vein more \ isible. Images are taken during the procedure so the radiologist can obtain the best view of the entire area to fully understand the problem and therefore prov ide a more accurate diagnosis. “The new CT scanner w ill help us detect signs of heart disease or PVD at its earliest stages by quickly and easily capturing images of the heart and coronary arteries that we can analyze for the presence of soft plaque or coronary blockage." says Dr. \\ ard According to Dr. W ard, these less-invasive procedures are often more beneficial to the patient than other treatment alternatives. "These procedures are normally easier for the patient because the incision area is small, the recovery is minimal and there is less pain." he explains. "We are also able to perform these procedures on an outpatient basis; however, some may require a short hospital stay. General anesthesia is normally not required and the procedure is often less expensive than other alternatives." Taking care of the patient is the number one priority. "We always want the best outcomes for our patients, and open and honest communication about the entire process is essential." states Dr. Shaikh "Because there are risks with any medical procedure, we want to make sure the patient and their family members are well informed and comfortable with the procedure."