A Guide to Buying a CT Scanner for Your Hospital/Clinic or ...

Introduction

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Computed Tomography (CT) scanners are sophisticated imaging device that utilize X-rays and advanced computing technology to generate detailed cross-sectional images of organs and tissues.

In this guide, I&#;ll explore the diverse types of CT scanners, their applications, and why they are indispensable tools for hospitals and clinics seeking cutting-edge diagnostic capabilities.

 

Uses of CT Scanners

CT scanners are used to:

·        Obtain detailed images of the brain, chest, abdomen, and pelvis.

·        Diagnose and monitor conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and trauma.

·        Guide surgical planning and interventions.

·        Screen for certain diseases and abnormalities.

 

Components of a CT Scanner

The main components are:

·        A bench the patient can lie down on

·        A gantry

·        A data acquisition system

·        An operating console

 

Types of Scans CT scanners Can Do

There are different types of CT scanners that use varying technologies and applications to meet specific diagnostic needs and medical requirements.

 

Multislice CT (MSCT)

Multislice CT employs multiple detector rows to capture multiple slices simultaneously, producing detailed cross-sectional images of the body. This technique enables faster scan times, improving efficiency in diagnosing various conditions, including vascular diseases, trauma, and cancer.

 

Electron Beam Tomography (EBT)

Electron Beam Tomography utilizes an electron beam as the radiation source, enabling extremely fast scan times. Primarily used for cardiac imaging, EBT excels in capturing dynamic structures, providing high-resolution images that aid in coronary artery assessments, calcium scoring, and cardiac function evaluation.

 

CT Myelography

CT Myelography combines CT scanning with the injection of contrast material into the spinal canal, enhancing visualization of the spinal cord and nerve roots. This technique is valuable for diagnosing spinal cord abnormalities, disc herniations, and other spinal conditions.

 

CT Angiography (CTA)

CT Angiography involves the injection of contrast material to visualize blood vessels and assess blood flow. This non-invasive technique is widely used to diagnose vascular diseases, such as aneurysms, stenosis, and embolisms, providing detailed 3D images for precise evaluation and treatment planning.

 

The Cost of a PET Scanner

Several factors determine the cost of this machine. Some of these factors, along with their associated costs, include:

Acquisition: Used lower slice CT machines can cost as low as $35,000, while brand new higher slice CT scanners can cost as much as $2.5 million.

Delivery and installation: Planning the site to ensure it meets federal and state regulations may cost between $20,000 and $40,000 in the US.

Operating costs: On average, it may cost you about $100,000 a year to operate the scanner.

Energy usage: You may pay from $50 to $3,000 per month depending on the model and the patient volume.

Maintenance, repairs, and spare parts: The cost may range from $ to $10,000 per month, depending on the machine&#;s power.

Other factors that could influence how much a CT scanner costs include:

·        The brand

·        Tube

·        Number of slices produced

·        Whether it&#;s a new, used, or refurbished machine

 

*Note: Prices are accurate as of the publication date.

 

Factors to Consider When Buying a CT Scanner

Before investing in a new or refurbished CT scanner, consider these important factors:

Tech and Specs

The slice count, determined by gantry rotation, sets systems apart. Common configurations include 16-slice for general studies and 64-slice, an industry standard enabling advanced scans like cardiac and perfusion studies.

Premium systems offer 128, 256, 320+ slices, leveraging advanced detectors and software for detailed images in specialized applications.

 

Software Set

Modern CT scanners derive capabilities from both hardware and software. Aligning your clinic's needs with the ideal balance of technical specifications and value is crucial for an informed purchase decision.

 

Tube Type and Usage

The x-ray tube, often referred to as the "glass," serves as the energy source for a CT scanner. Similar to an incandescent light bulb, it has a limited but unpredictable lifespan influenced by usage, make, and model. When considering a refurbished CT scanner, inquire about tube usage, typically measured in mAs or scan seconds.

 

Used, Refurbished, or Brand-New CT Scanner?: Refurbished units offer a lower upfront price, while used scanners may be pricier but potentially in better condition, depending on the supplier. Although a brand-new scanner is the best option, budget constraints may lead to a practical choice of a well-conditioned refurbished or used unit. Remember to check specifications before finalizing your purchase.

 

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Support and Service

After purchasing a CT scanner, maintenance becomes vital. New equipment typically comes with a 1-year parts and labor service agreement. Refurbished options may provide a 30-day guarantee with flexible service choices: full parts and labor, parts only, and time and materials. You can include your refurbished system in an existing service contract, whether it's a multi-vendor, OEM service, or Independent Service Provider (ISO) contract.

 

References

Patel PR and De Jesus O. CT Scan. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK/

Garvey CJ & Hanlon R. Computed tomography in clinical practice. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC/

Taubmann O, et al. Computed Tomography. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK/

Hermena S & Young M. CT-scan Image Production Procedures. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK/

Food and Drug Administration. Computed Tomography (CT). https://www.fda.gov/radiation-emitting-products/medical-x-ray-imaging/computed-tomography-ct

National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering. Computed Tomography (CT). https://www.nibib.nih.gov/science-education/science-topics/computed-tomography-ct

Amber Diagnostics. How much does a CT machine cost? https://www.amberusa.com/blog/how-much-does-ct-machine-cost/

Meridian Group International. 5 Factors to Consider When Buying a New or Refurbished CT Scanner. https://www.themeridian.com/en/company/blog/5-factors-to-consider-when-buying-a-new-or-refurbished-ct-scanner

 

Author Bio

Isaac Nunoofio uses his 10+ years of experience as a health and medical writer for hire to help doctors, medical consultants, and other health professionals, hospitals/clinics, and healthcare companies who are struggling with their messaging to grow their audience, engage their audience, and make more sales.

If you want him to create content for you, message him on LinkedIn now!

 

#writerforhire #B2Bmedtechwriter #medicalwriter #healthwriter

Buying a CT scanner is a big step for your practice or institution. With prices ranging from $100,000 up to over $1,000,000, it&#;s a significant investment and it makes sense to gather all the information you can before deciding what to buy, who to buy it from, whether you need new or refurbished equipment and how much to set aside in your budget for the purchase.  It&#;s important to note that the reimbursement rates are the same for new and refurbished CT scanners.

These steps will help you to make an informed decision based on reliable information, and get the most suitable CT scanner for your facility&#;s needs:

Step 1: Assess Your Workflow

When you buy a CT scanner, it&#;s essential to choose equipment that can handle your patient workflow. While everyone would love to have the most advanced technology available, it doesn&#;t always make financial sense to buy more than you need, unless you&#;re anticipating a high level of growth in the near future.

Conduct an assessment of your patient load and determine the number of CT studies needed in any given week. This will enable you to calculate whether the throughput of your preferred device is adequate for the demand.

Step 2: Evaluate Clinical Exam Needs

Consult your patient records and compile a spreadsheet of the clinical needs for most of the CT studies you order. From a 16-slice scanner up to a sophisticated 64-slice machine, your choice depends on what you need it to do. These systems also offer different speeds of image reconstruction, so it&#;s essential that you buy a CT scanner that will optimize your patient workflow.

Step 3: Compare Model Capabilities

Identify two or three CT scanner models that fit your requirements and map out a detailed comparison of their various features. This will help you to avoid finding out after the fact that a feature that you need is not part of your new scanner&#;s capability.

It&#;s important to compare issues such as:

• Systems cycle time

• Spatial resolution

• The

  system&#;s

  software

  options and

  applications

• Helical scanning protocols

• Safety measures specific to your patient profile

• Whether the models you&#;re considering comply with

  XR-29 CT Smart Dose

  standards

  .

Step 4: Consider the Service Aspect

When you purchase high-value equipment like a CT scanner, your selection of vendor is as important as your choice of machinery. Don&#;t overlook comparing the quality of service that the company provides with the scanner, such as:

• W

  arranty

  and extended service plan availability

• System component coverage and exclusions from coverage

• Up-time guarantee

• Guaranteed on-site response times

  It&#;s always a good idea to g

  et references from existing clients on your chosen vendor&#;s

  ability to perform

  service

  and maintenance on your medical imaging equipment

  .

Step 5: Calculate the Costs

The cost to buy a CT scanner that does the job starts with the purchase or lease price, but it doesn&#;t end there. It&#;s also necessary to take into account site-planning for the location of the equipment, the design and construction needed to prepare a suitable exam facility, air conditioning and power requirements. Remember that reimbursement rates are the same for studies performed by new and refurbished CT scanners.

The system&#;s lifespan and ability to image quality can be affected heavily by the availability of a stable electrical supply, so you may need to install surge suppressors and backup generators to protect the equipment from power failures and fluctuations. 

All these factors add to the final cost to buy a CT scanner. Then, of course, there&#;s the revenue-generation aspect of offering the service, and whether your typical patient load makes it a practical acquisition. 

Once you compare the results of your research, you&#;ll be able to determine how buying a scanner will contribute to service to your patients and the profitability of your practice.

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