PRP's CT Dual-Energy Service Information

Dual-energy CT (DECT) is a relatively new imaging technique that is primarily used for renal stone analysis and in the investigation of gout. Conventional CT cannot distinguish between monosodium urate (MSU) and calcium deposition. DECT involves low-dose scanning of a region at two different energy levels. The data obtained is used to differentiate between calcium and MSU deposits, based on their relative absorption of X-rays.

Please advise us beforehand

Please advise us if you are, or think you may be, pregnant.

Please bring your referral, Medicare and Pension Health Care Cards with any previous imaging relating to the region being scanned.

Preparation

There is no preparation for this examination.

What happens during the procedure

You change into a gown then lie on a bed which slides through the opening in the scanner. The bed will go through the scanner once for the planning scan, then once for each scan.

How long does it take?

Dual Energy CT only takes about 15 minutes to perform. Dual Energy CT is painless and non-invasive.

After your examination

There are no restrictions after having this procedure.

Your images and report

After your examination, you will be given a copy of the most pertinent images from your study. A report will be given to you with the images or sent directly back to your referring doctor by fax or email. PRP will store digital copies of all studies on our secure database for comparison with any future examinations.

Please bring any previous imaging with you for comparison.

It is important that you return to your doctor with your examination results. Whether they are normal or abnormal, your doctor needs to know promptly so that a management plan can be formulated.