Buying a CT Scanner - an Overview

Computer tomography, also called CT scan, is a medical procedure in which X-Ray images of the anatomy of the body are taken with the aid of a computer. The CT procedure, which was revolutionized in the 1970s, has undergone enormous development and is one of the leading applications in radiology.

A computer tomograph is a large device with a round opening in the middle. During the examination, the patient lies down on a bed which moves into the CT tube. Meanwhile, the X-ray tube rotates continuously around the person's longitudinal axis. The required X-ray image is captured within one second, the entire examination usually takes only a few minutes up to half an hour.

There are different types of CT machines, which differ in functionality and quality. The conventional form of CT equipment is the incremental CT. The CT machine is driven along the patient for several measurements. The patient is not allowed to move during the CT examination due to the machine's high sensitivity. The further the CT scanner travels, the more layers of the body it examines.

Difference to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

There is no general answer to the question of which examination procedure - CT or MRI - is better. Both MRI and CT have their advantages and disadvantages. The MRI machine works with magnetic fields that are free of radiation. CT devices, on the other hand, work with X-rays.

An MRI is particularly suitable for the imaging of soft tissue, the CT for the imaging of bony structures. Which type of examination actually makes more sense is decided individually. Frequently, the economic aspect also plays a major role in determining which device is used.

Computer tomography is mainly performed in hospitals, clinics and by specialized doctors, for example radiologists. In CT, radiopaque material containing iodine are often used to amplify the image signals. These are injected intravenously. Therefore, the compatibility should be clarified beforehand.

There are different types of CT machines which differ in functionality and quality. The conventional form is an incremental CT scanner. Today's best computer tomographs are the advanced, faster working spiral CT machines. An extension of the CT machine is the multi-line spiral CT, which uses special detectors to achieve even higher efficiency, accuracy and speed in CT examinations.

Even more innovative is the so-called volume CT machine, which can absorb an extremely high number of layers per rotation, so that even one rotation reveals important inner body layers. The latest and most innovative type of CT machine is the dual-source CT invented by Siemens. It offers detailed analysis and sharper images of the smallest regions of the body. The price range for a new CT device is between 300,000 and 900,000 euros net. Used equipment are significantly cheaper.

The more modern and technologically advanced the CT machine is, the better its capabilities and functions in terms of effectiveness, reduced harm, quality and ease of use. The CT price also depends heavily on the manufacturer. The monthly costs of a CT machine, which amount to approximately 5,000 to 10,000 euros net, should also be taken into account.

The costs incurred by a CT machine in daily use include those for accessories, consumables and similar items: In concrete terms, these include spare parts and the disposal of waste products. During the entire use of the CT machine, a total cost of approx. 75,000 and 150,000 euros net for necessary accessories and possible technical repairs should be expected. Moreover, the costs for the training of specialized personnel and for the spatial conditions, which include radiation protection, should not be ignored. These cost between approx. 100,000 and 250,000 Euro net.

It is therefore important to calculate as accurately as possible the total costs incurred by a CT machine over the period of its use. In addition to the acquisition costs, the operating costs must also be taken into account. Usually the follow-up costs are three times higher than the purchase price. As a general rule, the more expensive the CT machine is to purchase, the higher the costs that are incurred during the period of use.

Leading companies in the medical equipment market for CT machines include Philips, Hitachi, GE Healthcare, Canon Medical and Siemens. Philips' CT devices aim for the best possible solution methods and outstanding operability, and are characterized by generally high performance and patient friendliness.

The company Hitachi focuses on the well-being of the patient and convinces through efficiency, innovation and quality. GE Healthcare focuses on healthy patient treatment with CT machines. It stands out through its wide variety of CT machines and constant progress in the healthcare industry.

Canon Medical is recognized worldwide for its reliable, high-quality image output, simplified operation and original developments that reduce stress for the patients. In this respect, the modern Aquilion ONE ViSION Edition from Canon Medical stands out. With innovative technologies, Siemens is a pioneer in the medical technology market for the manufacture of CT machines and the Somatom Emotion from Siemens is the world's best-selling CT machine.

In addition to the costs for CT accessories and equipping the room, there are the running costs for the operation of the CT system, which can be limited to between approx. 5,000 and 10,000 euros net per month. These costs include energy costs, software updates, electronics, professional cleaning and technical malfunctions.

You will be confronted with a number of recurring examinations relating to the maintenance and service of CT devices. The metrological check usually has to be carried out every 12 months. It checks the accuracy of the measurement results. Just as essential is the safety check, which attempts to identify and correct risks for the patient and safety deficiencies early on.

Some manufacturers offer on-site service for their own products, while other service providers do not require you to use a specific device. A maintenance contract is often recommended for a CT system, which bundles the annual services under a total price after consultation. Additional costs may be incurred for repair and maintenance of the machine.

In order to perform a PET CT examination, certain prerequisites and preparations are required to obtain a final good image quality. 12 hours before the start of the examination, the patient should stop eating and only drink water or unsweetened tea. Sport and other physical activities should be avoided at all costs on the day before and on the day of the examination.

Since the medical personnel have to go behind a protective wall due to the X-rays, the patient is alone in the room during the examination. However, there is nothing to fear - the medical assistants or doctors always have the patient in view and can communicate or give instructions without problems. After the examination, the patient is not impaired in any way.

To illuminate diseased parts of the body on the X-ray image, patients are injected with a small amount of radioactive material via the vein. In addition, patients are often given a saline solution and a diuretic. Then patience is required, as the radioactive sugar solution first has to be distributed in the body. The waiting time is about 60 minutes, then the PET CT examination is carried out.