New GE LightSpeed VCT scanner reduces radiation exposure by half

The Methodist Hospital System became the first in Houston this month to use new technology that dramatically reduces CT radiation doses without compromising the quality of the image.

The cutting edge 64-slice CT scanners provide remarkably detailed images that can help a patient avoid more invasive procedures. But this powerful scanner can also expose patients to a higher dose of radiation. A recent multi-center study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association confirms that by reducing doses, patients get spared the high exposure to radiation, while not losing the quality of the image.

"This new capability is critical for those at high risk of developing side effects of radiation exposure, such as pediatric and cancer patients," said Dr. Thomas Hedrick, medical director of Radiology at The Methodist Hospital. "Our patients' safety is of the utmost importance to us and now we can provide a safer option for diagnostic imaging."

Methodist has invested in technology for the computer consoles on all of its seven GE LightSpeed VCT 64-slice scanners across the greater Houston area, which can reduce radiation exposure from 15 to 40 percent, depending on the type of image needed for diagnosis. GE is currently the only device manufacturer that offers this capability.