Xograph launches new product for high resolution small parts CT
scanning with potential for use in extremity trauma imaging
An extremity CT scanner called 'Verity' has been developed by Planmed in Finland to
generate 3 dimensional isotropic reconstructions at a very low radiation dose.
The compact, self-contained Planmed Verity is mobile with a motorised height
adjustable gantry that can rotate from the vertical to the horizontal. It can be placed
in an existing X-ray room and only requires a standard electrical socket. The most
unique feature of Verity is that CT examinations can be performed with high
resolution not only in the seated and recumbent positions but also with the patient
standing for weight-bearing views. No special CT Scan room is required as the unit
has an all-in-one design with built in touchscreen console. The efficient flat panel
detector permits low dose exposure equivalent to, or lower than, conventional 'plain
film' radiography and approximately one tenth of a typical CT examination. It is
therefore possible to examine the extremities of patients with injuries in a practical
way at high resolution in a position of comfort and with the advantage of standing
examinations for selected cases.
(a)
(b)
The Verity Mobile Extremity CT Scanner, seen from top left: (a) with a
patient in a bed, (b) with a seated patient. The ability to rotate the gantry to
the horizontal also allows weight-bearing views of a standing patient.
Trauma Potential
CT examination can be advantageous in allowing immediate and effective
management of patients with extremities injuries. One significant area of interest is in
the imaging of the hand and wrist following trauma from a fall. If no fracture is
identified there remains suspicion of occult injury. Between 30% and 40% of
scaphoid fractures may not be detectable on initial radiographs. Verity CT
examination of the wrist has the potential to provide additional diagnostic information
and could usefully replace the initial conventional radiograph.
Another area of potential for Verity is in ankle sprain injury. Studies have shown that
approximately 40% of patients who are discharged with normal conventional
radiographs will develop some form of long term instability. A small percentage of
patients may also have occult fractures which, whilst likely to heal, may lead to long
term instability and premature degenerative disease. A CT examination on the day of
injury using a convenient and fast system like Verity could demonstrate these
fractures. Commenting on Verity, Dr David Wilson, Consultant Musculoskeletal
Radiologist in Oxford, said “I have viewed Verity in clinical use in Turku, Finland and
can see the potential for its use in UK trauma units”.
The Planmed Verity is available from Xograph Healthcare. For more information,
including the full version of this article, visit
http://www.xograph.com/products-and-solutions/medical-imaging/extremity-ct/
or Email verity@xograph.com