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Digital X-rays |
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X-ray images are captured and processed using a digital format. This allows the images to be stored |
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electronically. The accuracy in interpretation is also increased. |
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It can be performed on all regions including chest, abdomen, pelvis, skull and limbs. |
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Ultrasound Studies |
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High frequency sound waves are used to produce images of the body, without the use of X-rays. Blood |
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flow can also be measured using the Doppler phenomenon. |
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It is used to visualize internal organs such as breasts, abdomen and pelvis. |
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Mammography (Breast cancer screening) |
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Specialised X-ray and processing techniques are employed to provide the best spatial and contrast |
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resolution in order to pick up micro-calcifications and masses for cancer detection. |
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The risk of developing breast cancer increases with age. To detect breast cancer early, women aged 40 |
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years and above are advised to have regular mammograms.
(Recommended by the Health Promotion Board) |
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128-Slice Computed Tomography (CT Scan) and CT Angiogram (CTA) |
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It is a specialised X-ray examination using a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce |
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cross-sectional images of the body. It provides detailed information of various anatomic regions. |
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Multiple X-ray images are obtained using X-ray tube & detectors that rotate 3 times per second. |
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Computers are used to produce images of the body with sub millimeter slice thickness in order to |
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appreciate cross-sectional images of the body. It provides detailed information of various anatomic regions. |
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CT scan is also used as a screening tool for colorectal cancer , this non-invasive method is called |
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virtual colonoscopy. |
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| Understand more on virtual colonoscopy |
| Click here to find out more on VEO™ - CT750 HD with the latest low dose technology |
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What is CT Coronary Angiogram?
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Coronary Artery disease or blockage of arteries in the heart is one of the leading causes of early and
sudden death in Singapore. |
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CT coronary angiogram can now be performed to evaluate for coronary artery diseases with the advent of
new generation CT scanners. |
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The CT system is faster and gives higher resolution images compared to previous generation
scanners. |
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It gives more detailed information to doctors, providing a 3-D computer model of the heart and its arteries. |
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How is CT Coronary Angiogram performed?
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The procedure involves the injection of contrast (an iodine containing dye). |
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You will be required to lie on a couch and follow the breathing instructions given to you. |
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Your heart rate may need to be lowered with medication in order to obtain motion free images. |
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You may experience a warm sensation during the injection of the dye. |
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The preparation may takes about half an hour while the actual scanning takes only about 10 seconds. |
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How should I get prepared?
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You are required to fast for 4 hours before the scan if the scan involves the injection of contrast |
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(an iodine containing dye). |
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As intravenous (IV) contrast may be used, please inform us if you have allergy of any kind. |
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Please consult your doctor if you have diabetes and on Metformin, any kidney problem or asthma. |
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Please take your usual medications with plain water on the day of the scan. |
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and MR Angiogram (MRA) |
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MRI is a non-invasive way of viewing organs, soft tissues, bone and other internal body structures. |
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Magnetic field and radio waves together with a computer are used to create cross-sectional, three- |
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dimensional pictures of the head and body without the use of X-rays. |
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Detailed MR images allow Radiologists (specialist doctors experienced in MRI and other radiology |
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examinations) to better evaluate parts of the body for conditions that may not be visible with other Imaging |
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methods (such as X-ray, ultrasound or CT scan). |
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How should I get prepared?
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Please inform the staff if you may be pregnant. |
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If you have minor claustrophobia (fear of enclosed spaces) or anxiety, you may want to ask your |
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referring physician to prescribe a mild sedative. |
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Jewelry and other accessories should be left at home if possible, or removed prior to the MRI scan. |
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Metal and electronic objects can interfere with the MRI's magnetic field and are not allowed in the suite. |
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Inform the staff if you have any existing medical conditions or electronic devices in your body. |
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People with the following implants cannot be scanned and should not enter the MRI area: |
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Cardiac pacemakers |
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Defibrillators |
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Cochlear (ear) implants |
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As intravenous (IV) contrast may be used, please inform us if you have allergy of any kind. However, the |
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contrast material, called gadolinium, seldom produces side effects. |
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