University of Washington CT expert offers contrast conservation tips

It's definitely possible to reduce CT contrast volume, even in a busy radiology department, according to CT supervisor Gulnoor Sheriff at the University of Washington Medical Center, Montlake, in Seattle. In fact, by taking practical action, Sheriff and colleagues have achieved an overall contrast volume reduction of more than 20% and saved the department $30,000 annually. How? In part through adopting new technology such as syringeless contrast injectors and making use of dual-energy CT scanners. "Strategic investments in the right technology is key to CT contrast conservation, coupled with effective education and training as well as ongoing assessment and optimization of CT exam protocols," Sheriff told AuntMinnie.com. The impetus to conserve CT contrast has been prompted in part by a 2022 supply chain disruption that made GE HealthCare's (GEHC) Omnipaque agent scarce due to a lockdown of the company's Shanghai production facility. "It has become crucial to conserve contrast," Sheriff said. "We don't want to overuse or underuse it." The University of Washington's radiology department performs 120 to 130 CT exams per day for inpatients, outpatients, and emergency patients. Of these exams, 60% use contrast, according to Sheriff. That's why in 2021, the department invested in a syringeless power injector (CT Motion, GEHC), which has had a dramatic effect on the ability to conserve CT contrast. Sheriff cited a 2023 study that found that switching from single-use syringe-b...
Source: AuntMinnie.com Headlines - Category: Radiology Authors: Tags: Practice Management Source Type: news