Newport Hospital is proud to announce the arrival of the first SOMATOM® Drive dual source CT scanner in Rhode Island, a state-of-the-art diagnostic tool that promises to enhance the speed, accuracy, and comfort of medical imaging for patients. This cutting-edge technology represents a significant advancement in the hospital’s commitment to providing the highest quality care to the community.
“We are excited to be able to offer this technology to our patients, the community at large, and team members here at Newport Hospital,” said Jeffrey Gaines, MD, MHCM, FACEP, Chief Medical Officer and VP of Medical Affairs for Newport Hospital. “The installation of this scanner with its advanced capabilities will impact patients and providers on Aquidneck Island and beyond. We want to thank the two donors who made this purchase possible, the Alletta Morris McBean Charitable Trust and The Champlain Foundation.”
The dual source CT scanner is designed to deliver faster, more precise imaging by using two x-ray tubes and detectors simultaneously, allowing for the acquisition of high-resolution images more quickly. One of the most notable features of this advanced technology is its ability to produce clear, detailed images with fewer motion artifacts, even in patients who may have difficulty holding still. In addition, the dual source CT scanner can capture high-quality scans without the need for medications often used to slow the heart rate during certain scans.
“The dual source CT scanner will not only allow us to achieve faster and more accurate results with reduced radiation dose to patients, but it will also eliminate the need for beta blockers while imaging the heart and its blood supply—something that can be especially beneficial for those with sensitivities to medications,” said Van T. Nguyen, MD, Chief of Diagnostic Imaging, Newport Hospital. “Ultimately, this innovation will help us provide better care, quicker diagnoses, and a more comfortable experience for everyone who walks through our doors.”
The dual source CT scanner will be used for a wide range of diagnostic procedures, including cardiac imaging, trauma assessments, and the detection of cancers, all with significantly reduced scan times and improved precision. By integrating this cutting-edge technology into the hospital’s imaging department, Newport Hospital further strengthens its role as a leader in advanced medical care.