Kent Hospital has added two state-of-the-art multi-slice CAT Scan (CT) machines to its Diagnostic Imaging Department. The scanners, manufactured by Siemens Medical Solutions USA, maximize high-resolution image acquisition speed with low radiation dose, further enhancing the high quality, patient-centered experience at Kent. Kent Hospital is the only hospital in Rhode Island to have two such CT scanners of this kind. 

The two machines purchased are capable of obtaining high-resolution images of the body in seconds reducing time to diagnosis and treatment. Features include the ability to perform cardiac imaging and the assessment for Coronary Artery Disease.

With the unique CARE (Combined Applications to Reduce Exposure) set of applications, such as CARE kV and the Adaptive Dose Shield, the new scanners are able to rapidly acquire high resolution images at a significantly lower radiation dose while maintaining a comfortable patient experience. In addition, with the CARE child pediatric protocols, the x-ray exposure is adjusted to the age and weight of the patient, further reducing radiation dose during pediatric exams. These machines also have a unique FAST (Fully Assisting Scanner Technologies) scan feature that automatically determines the best imaging parameters based on the individual patient and the body region to be scanned. Additional features include a larger diameter core and a higher table weight capacity of 500 pounds, which will further enhance patient comfort and allow the ability to scan larger patients. 

“The addition of these new CT scanners to our Diagnostic Imaging Department is extremely exciting and beneficial to our patients in a variety of different ways,” said Sandra Coletta, COO of Care New England, president and CEO of Kent Hospital. “The new technology that these machines have allow us to see more patients who are in need of care and obtain the best outcomes for our patients.”

“Obtaining the highest quality images at shorter scan times while at the same time significantly reducing radiation dose is critical to both accurate diagnosis and patient safety,” said David Rowe, MD, chief radiologist at Kent. “These CT scanners are a great addition to the department and complement the array of services that we offer.” 

In addition to these new state-of-the-art CT scanners, Kent Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging Department also offers high field MRI, ultrasound, digital radiography and PET imaging. Digital mammography, ultrasound and bone densitometry are also offered at the Women’s Diagnostic Imaging Center at Kent, a breast imaging center of excellence, as designated by the American College of Radiology in conjunction with The Breast Health Center at Kent, a unique collaboration between Kent and Women & Infants hospitals. The department also offers a variety of other imaging services, including advanced interventional radiology. Special focus is given to timely, convenient appointments and rapid results reporting to referring physicians.   

To schedule diagnostic imaging at Kent Hospital, call 737-7010, ext. 31988.