The EBCT scan that we use at OC Vital Imaging delivers the lowest dose of radiation for any type of exam when compared to multi detector CT (MSCT) scans, including the newest “64 slice” CT scans. It is extremely important that any screening test be safe and accurate. The EBCT meets both of those criteria. Recent newspaper articles quoted that the radiation dose for a full body scan performed on a conventional CT scan (MSCT scan) was equivalent to the radiation exposure received by survivors of the atomic bomb. The EBCT scan delivers 1/5 to 1/10 the dose of radiation.

The best way to compare radiation doses is to compare the dose to commonly used tests. The radiation dose that you receive if you live in Denver, Colorado  for three months is equivalent to three chest X-rays or one set of conventional dental X-rays (higher elevations expose you to higher natural radiation from the atmosphere).

The chart below compares the radiation dose for various exams performed on our EBCT scan compared to the radiation dose delivered on a conventional CT scan (MSCT scan). You can easily see the huge safety factor in using EBCT scans. If you choose to have you heart scan or full body scan performed at an imaging center other than OC Vital Imaging, you need to make sure that it is an EBCT scanner and not a conventional or MSCT scanner. Only EBCT scanners can provide the lowest radiation dose with the highest accuracy in detecting coronary calcium.

Radiation concerns with 64 slice CT scan

However, along with the promise, the technology raises concerns, including the amount of radiation the machines emit.

Cardiac catheterization also exposes patients to radiation because of the use of a type of moving X ray known as fluoroscopy.

With 64-slice CT, the radiation can be more than twice that amount, roughly the equivalent of 100 to 300 chest X-rays, said Cynthia McCollough, an associate professor of radiologic physics at the Mayo Clinic.

Such a dose probably only raises a person's cancer risk by only one-tenth of 1%, she said.

However, because the technology is quick and non- invasive, there may be a temptation to do repeated scans.

"That's my fear, too," McCollough said. "This is not something people should be getting every year."

Appeared in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel on Jan. 16, 2006.

The OC Vital Imaging Approach

At OC Vital Imaging, we make every attempt to use the best CT scanner for the patients needs. We chose not to compromise and use one type of CT scan for all purposes. Therefore, we have been able to keep radiation doses very low and accuracy very high for our screening heart and full body scans by using the EBCT scanner. We chose the fast 64 slice CT scan for diagnostic testing because of its exquisite detail and the ability to adjust output of radiation whenever possible. The best CT scanners, no compromise!