Our Technology
The Future of Imaging: Three Dimensional (3D) Volume Renderings
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Three-dimensional imaging (3D) with volumetric renderings dramatically strengthens physicians' ability to clearly visualize anatomy and pathology. Although it first came on the scene with the introduction of CT scanning in the late 1970's, advances in faster computer processing times and new rendering algorithms are now creating images that radiologists could only dream of decades ago.
Saint Alphonsus, in conjunction with Intermountain Medical Imaging, was the first hospital in Idaho to install a Picture Archiving Communication System (PACS). In partnership with Intermountain Medical Imaging and Gem State Radiology physicians, Saint Alphonsus has developed 3D imaging capability comparable to that found at leading academic medical centers. Specialized software renders 3D images seconds after the CT scan is complete, and enables physicians to digitally "fly" through and around the patient's anatomy in 3D.
Taking data from cross-sectional CT and MRI studies, this new technology creates three dimensional views of organs and systems, allowing physicians to visualize a patient's anatomy realistically. Layer by layer, from skin to bone, volume rendering helps physicians less-invasively diagnose conditions, screen for disease and plan surgery. 3D review is now becoming the gold standard of care for interpretation of multi-slice CT studies.
The data dilemma
The newer multi-slice CT scanners can produce as many as 5,000 slices per study
at 0.5-mm thickness. This produces an enormous number of images, which become
cumbersome to interpret.
Cross-sectional scans can be "summarized" by 3D viewing, reducing the number of images that require review. 3D review also increases lesion detection by Radiologists and provides images that are easier to interpret by referring physicians.
In addition to more accurate diagnosis, 3D enables non-invasive surgical planning, resulting in reduced operating time and less damage to healthy tissue.
3D is fast becoming the standard of care for cross sectional imaging, increasing diagnostic accuracy and improving patient outcomes. Saint Alphonsus and Intermountain Medical Imaging are proud to continue to bring state of the art Medical Imaging to the Treasure Valley.