Enhancing Efficiency in the CT Suite

Editor’s note: Among the highlights at the Radiological Society of North America’s 2024 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting and were Canon Medical Systems’ Aquilion One SP CT Scanner and the INSTINX user interface. Kieran Anderson, publisher of Applied Radiology, sat down with Megan Salazar, CT technologist at Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging in Las Vegas, Nevada; Tonya Altmann, manager of diagnostic imaging at Door County Medical Center, Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin; and Kelsey Schluter, lead technologist and analyst at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, to discuss how the innovative systems are impacting healthcare. 

When it comes to patient throughput, leveling up efficiency is a constant effort across all medical imaging clinics and medical centers. Megan Salazar, CT technologist at Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging (SDMI) in Las Vegas, Nevada, says Canon Medical Systems’ new Aquilion One SP CT scanner and its INSTINX user interface are wasting no time doing their part.

“The Aquilion One SP offers tools that are first-in-class in the industry, like the 3D scanogram,” says Salazar, who describes the scanogram feature, which provides a full axial series for imaging planning, as a "game changer" in reducing the time and complexity typically associated with coronary CT angiography. She says the system seamlessly integrates their workflows, maintaining high patient throughput across SDMI’s multiple locations in the region and “making these studies both efficient and user-friendly for technologists.”

INSTINX User Interface: Intuitive Impact

Canon’s INSTINX user interface, meanwhile, wins praise for its intuitive design, which further simplifies complex tasks. Tonya Altmann, manager of diagnostic imaging at Door County Medical Center (DCMC) in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, stated that the ease of use of the INSTINX user interface was a significant advantage over that of other CT platforms. Despite having a limited background in CT, Altmann quickly recognized the appealing app-like appearance of the software and noted that the system is designed to ensure successful outcomes.

“[Canon] created a system that ensures consistent image quality, regardless of technologist experience. Even the newest technologist can produce images of the same quality as those taken by our seasoned technologist,” she says. “Our team can confidently say our patients receive reproducible exceptional images every time, no matter who’s performing the exam, and that’s a great feeling. Altmann says another benefit of the system is that it has helped to boost her staff’s willingness to train in CT. "At our facility, we have seen increased confidence in team members as they are training." 

Salazar highlights another side benefit of the system: reduced stress and uncertainty for technologists. “The 3D scanogram’s live control over [region of interest] placement allows us to adjust during contrast administration with unparalleled precision,” she notes, explaining that such control enhances diagnostic confidence and minimizes radiation dose by eliminating the need for test boluses.

Patient-centric Care

Kelsey Schluter, lead technologist and analyst at University of Wisconsin’s UW Health University Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin, shares that INSTINX and Aquilion One SP are significantly enhancing patient care and staff safety at the institution’s Level 1 trauma center.

“The lateral movement capabilities and automated positioning minimize patient discomfort and reduce the risk of technologist injuries,” she explains, noting that these capabilities are critical in high-pressure environments. "This system allows technologists to spend more time on what’s truly important---our patients," adds Altmann. With the gantry touch panels and the built-in positioning camera, technologists can adjust scan parameters and protocols while remaining close to the patient. What previously took several minutes away from the room at the computer can now be done in seconds, allowing for more direct patient interaction.

With the gantry touch panels and the built-in positioning camera, technologists can adjust scan parameters and protocols while remaining close to the patient. What previously took several minutes away from the room at the computer can now be done in just seconds, allowing for more direct patient interaction. Salazar adds that the scanner’s wider bore alleviates anxiety for claustrophobic patients. “Patients visibly relax when they see this state-of-the-art equipment,” she says. “The time we save on technical tasks can now be spent addressing patient concerns and providing reassurance.”

Seamless Support and Collaboration

A key factor in the successful implementation of Canon's solutions is the company's strong customer support team. Altmann describes their relationship as collaborative. "Canon’s team has been with us every step of the way, ensuring we have everything we need," she says. “Due to our positive experience, DCMC has agreed to become a showcase site for Canon, welcoming potential customers who are interested in seeing the Aquilion One SP in action.” The Aquilion One SP CT scanner and INSTINX user interface together represent a significant step forward in CT imaging. By prioritizing efficiency, usability, and patient-centered care, Canon Medical Systems has created tools that resonate with the needs of modern radiology departments, the three clinicians agree. “This system puts the patient care back in CT imaging,” Altmann says. “It’s not just about producing images. It’s about creating a better experience for both patients and technologists.” Salazar agrees, concluding, “It’s a joy to work with technology that allows us to focus on what truly matters—our patients.”