Technical Innovation

PACS (Picture Archival and Communication System)

John Muir Health uses Philips PACS, an electronic imaging process that allows the acquisition, distribution and storage of images. This facilitates workflow for physicians by allowing images and reports to be viewed on computers within the hospitals or by web access from outside. John Muir Health has both Computed Radiography and Direct Radiography imaging equipment that facilitates very fast image acquisition and distribution of images thru PACS.

GE Infinia Hawkeye System

Our GE Infinia Hawkeye System allows us to offer SPECT-CT hybrid imaging, which provides greater detection and precise localization of disease process. These hybrid images offer diagnostic confidence by combining functional imaging of Nuclear Medicine and anatomical information of Computed Tomography. The low dose CT also provides superior attenuation correction for cardiac and other SPECT procedures.

64 Slice Computed Tomography (CT) Scanner

A CT's image quality determines its ability to optimally detect sites of disease and to accurately characterize the nature of detected abnormalities. Along with image quality, scanner speed is important as it minimizes the time a patient spends in the scanner, thus increasing patient satisfaction and decreasing the likelihood of failed exams. A faster scanner also produces improved CT angiographic imaging of vascular structures with higher resolution, and reduces the required amount of injected contrast agent.

The most advanced CT Scanner equipment available on the market is now available at John Muir Medical Center, Concord Campus.

The 64 Slice Computed Tomography (CT) Scanner acquires information simultaneously from 64 0.5mm channels to rapidly cover anatomy at high resolution. The resulting data can be presented in any display plane, including curved planes at identical resolution.

This increased speed allows physicians to obtain precise diagnostic images that "freeze" the motion of moving structures in the body (such as the heart and coronary arteries) and better define certain disease processes.

This faster speed also enables a reduction in the amount of intravenous contrast agent needed to image anatomical structures requiring enhancement. This reduction in contrast can register up to 50% on some exams.

Appropriate use of Test:

1. Detection and characterization of sites of suspected cancer, infection, or inflammation.
2. Display of complex anatomical relationships in the head and neck, spine and extremities.
3. Analysis of vascular structures for sites of narrowing, blockage, or aneurysm formation. Detailed assessments of the aorta, intracranial arteries and coronary arteries, and visceral arteries

General Electric Direct Radiography

Brentwood Radiology department has all General Electric direct radiography equipment. This state-of-the-art equipment greatly reduces the length of time patients must spend having their exams done.