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Why You Need to Let a CT Scanner Warm Up First

Why You Need to Let a CT Scanner Warm Up First

When it comes to CT scanners, proper maintenance and operation are of utmost importance. You need to make sure that the equipment is operating at peak performance to ensure that it’s delivering the best results possible. 

 

At Catalina Imaging, we’re committed to providing the highest quality solutions by specializing in mobile CT scanning technology. Contact us today at info@catalinaimaging.com or call us at (844) 949-1664!

Why You Need to Let a CT Scanner Warm Up First

CT Scanners: how they work

A CT scanner, also known as a computer tomography scanner, is a medical imaging device that uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. It does this by taking multiple x-ray measurements from different angles and using a computer to combine them into a detailed 3D image. This allows doctors to see inside the body and diagnose a wide range of conditions, such as tumors, fractures, and blood clots.

 

CT scanners are very expensive to purchase and maintain. Needless to say, it is important to handle them properly so as to preserve their lifespan and ensure that they continue to function effectively – and one of the best preventative measures to take is to let your CT scanner warm up before using it.

 

Importance of Warming Up of CT Scanners

Warming up a CT scanner before using it is one important aspect of properly handling the machine. It is important for the following reasons:

To allow for optimal performance

A warm CT scanner is more responsive to commands – thus, it’s more accurate in its readings and produces higher-quality X-ray images of the patient’s body.

 

This translates into a better experience for you and your patients—and that’s something we can all get behind!

 

To meet manufacturer specs

When a CT scanner is cold, the X-ray photons are scattered in all directions, making it difficult for the computer to generate an image. The scanner must reach an ideal temperature to operate as safely and effectively as possible.

 

These machines are designed to warm up gradually before use to avoid potential issues from arising. If they were to generate warped images, this would adversely affect the function of other medical devices that depend on accurate scans.

 

To reduce downtime due to errors

CT scanners are very sensitive and have several moving parts. They are prone to failure during operation when not properly warmed up. This is because CT scanners use X-rays, which are electromagnetic waves that can pass through most materials. If the machine isn’t warmed up properly, it’s more likely that the X-ray will not be able to penetrate all of the layers of metal and other parts inside the machine. This subsequently results in missed images or other errors.

 

To ensure your team’s safety

Warming up your CT scanner is a safety precaution you and your team should take. This will ultimately help avoid accidents and injuries, besides ensuring high-quality results. When you’re letting your CT scanner warm up, there are a few particular steps you need to take. 

 

First, make sure that you’ve turned off all nonessential electronics in the room. Then turn on the camera and set its focus to infinity. Next, move the table into position and put any necessary materials on it (such as cables or other items). 

 

Finally, turn on the machine and let it warm up for at least fifteen minutes before beginning work with patients or objects inside of it.

 

Conclusion: Why Allowing Your CT Scanner to Warm Up Before Use is Beyond Critical

A properly warmed-up CT scanner will be less likely to require repeat testing, which in turn, prevents potential complications or delays in care. In addition, it will work better overall, leading to better patient outcomes and a higher quality of care. Patients will not have to worry about being misdiagnosed or waiting longer than necessary for treatment because of a technical hiccup.

 

 

At Catalina, we take pride in providing our customers with the care and attention they deserve. For more information about our services, contact us at (844) 949-1664 or info@catalinaimaging.com!

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Why You Should Rent a GE CT Scanner

GE CT Scanner

GE CT scanners are among the most popular and sought-after in the market, and rightly so. General Electric creates high-quality and easy-to-use equipment that are easily serviceable. At Catalina Imaging, we have firsthand experience with the reliability and versatility of GE’s products. 

 

If your facility is experiencing some changes and you’re looking to rent a CT scanner, Catalina Imaging has got you covered. We’re a leading mobile CT scanner provider that offers a wide selection of mobile imaging solutions nationwide. Call us at (844) 949-1664 to learn more about our services.

 

In this blog, we’ll highlight some of the reasons why you should consider renting a GE CT scanner.

 

Familiar user interface

Radiologists and technologists are familiar with GE’s software and user interface. 

 

Although GE constantly updates its products, the company keeps the same interface in its system. And whenever there are changes to GE CT scanners, they are implemented gradually. This gives users enough time to adapt to the changes.

 

If your team is proficient with their equipment, they can become more productive and precise with their imaging. 

 

XR-29 compliant

Generally, GE CT scanners follow XR-29 standards, a set of guidelines issued by the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA). Using XR-29-compliant equipment means you won’t suffer a 15% Medicare reimbursement reduction.

 

The entire GE VCT 64-slice series is already compliant with XR-29. GE units that aren’t natively compliant can be easily upgraded to satisfy the requirements provided by NEMA. 

 

Service support and parts accessibility 

GE is known for its outstanding customer support. In addition, there has been an increase in GE CT equipment in the past few decades, which increased GE service engineers all over the world. 

 

Additionally, it’s easy to find GE parts no matter where you are. Whether you’re looking for tubes, detectors or other components, a large volume of parts are available in the second-hand market. 

 

If you’re renting a GE CT scanner, this ensures fast repair times and uninterrupted service since the units are easily serviceable.

 

Air-cooled system

You don’t need to worry about installing a chilling system for GE CT scanners. GE units are air-cooled and don’t require large reconstruction cabinets, unlike the scanners from other manufacturers. 

 

This means GE CT scanners will occupy less space in your facility, freeing room for other purposes. 

 

Reasons why facilities and hospitals rent CT scanners

There are various reasons why your medical facility may opt to rent a CT scanner.

  1. You’re looking to test the market
  2. You don’t have funds for a huge investment but have a steady operational budget
  3. Your CT suite is undergoing renovations
  4. You’re conducting a training
  5. Your existing CT scanners can’t keep up with your patients
  6. You have multiple but low-traffic sites

 

Renting a mobile scanner is an affordable way to equip your facility with CT without spending the upfront costs of buying a unit. 

 

Catalina Imaging (Why Choose Us?) is a premier mobile imaging solutions provider.  Beyond GE CT scanners, we also offer state-of-the-art equipment from Siemens and Canon/Toshiba. We offer our services nationwide from our California, Illinois, North Carolina and Minnesota facilities. 

 

To know more about our offerings, call us at (844) 949-1664 or fill out this form.