In order to use spiral CT equipment effectively, it's essential to take a comprehensive approach from the initial installation through daily operations. This includes implementing rational measures that ensure the machine functions in an optimal environment and that operators have a clear understanding of its principles. Proper usage not only maximizes the machine’s performance but also helps reduce operational costs over time.
In recent years, spiral CT has become widely adopted across hospitals at various levels, significantly enhancing diagnostic accuracy and imaging quality, which in turn supports better clinical outcomes. However, despite this progress, many hospitals—especially those in lower administrative levels—still face challenges in using these machines efficiently. Issues such as improper operation, lack of training, and inadequate maintenance lead to increased wear and tear, higher failure rates, and greater expenses. As a result, it is crucial for users to understand their equipment thoroughly and continuously improve their skills through practical experience to maintain the machine in the best possible condition.
Most spiral CT systems currently in use in our city were installed after 2000. Based on my experience with their operation, I’d like to share some key practices for your reference.
1. Room Selection and Installation Requirements
The CT room should be located in an area with minimal vibration, low electromagnetic interference, and good air quality. It should also be close to the power supply room for convenience and easy access for patients. The layout must allow for safe operation, sufficient space for maintenance, and smooth patient flow. Additionally, all components—such as regulators, power units, workstations, cameras, processors, and high-pressure injectors—should be positioned to minimize interference between different areas.
Cable installation should avoid AC electromagnetic fields, such as transformers or motors. Signal and power cables must be shielded and properly routed. If necessary, a dark trench lined with galvanized iron can be used to protect cables from damage and pests. Long cables should be waved rather than folded or looped to prevent damage.
A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is recommended for the system computer to prevent data loss and system crashes. The main power capacity for the CT unit should exceed 10–20% of the total rated power. A reliable grounding system is also essential, with resistance below 2Ω, checked every six months. Grounding connections to metal parts must have resistance under 0.1Ω.
2. Warm-Up Before Scanning
After each startup, the machine must be fully preheated before scanning the first patient. This ensures the X-ray tube filament is sufficiently heated, preventing damage during scanning. It also helps maintain image quality by allowing the circuit to stabilize.
3. Maintain Cleanliness
Daily cleaning of the machine room and internal components is necessary to minimize dust accumulation, which can affect heat dissipation and increase the risk of circuit failures. Regular cleaning of the slip ring and carbon brushes helps reduce friction and prolongs the life of the machine.
4. Regular Inspection of Consumables
Components such as the slip ring and carbon brush should be inspected regularly based on usage. For example, after 5,000 scans or 400,000 rotations of the slip ring, cleaning and maintenance should be performed. Carbon brushes should be checked for wear and replaced when they reach the marked limit to prevent damage to the slip ring.
5. Efficient Scan Timing
When starting a scan, it's important to initiate exposure promptly to avoid unnecessary wear on the slip ring and carbon brush. After completing the scan, the machine should be exited from the scanning mode to reduce the filament’s full-load heating and stop the slip ring rotation. This helps extend the lifespan of critical components.
Maintaining a ratio of slip ring revolutions to tube exposures within 10:1 is ideal, though this may vary depending on the machine model. Different manufacturers calculate exposure counts differently, so it's important to follow the guidelines provided by the equipment supplier.
When receiving a scan request, the operator should carefully assess the patient’s condition and plan the scan accordingly. Precise positioning and a well-structured scanning sequence help minimize pauses and re-scans. For organs affected by breathing, it’s better to include a slightly larger scanning range to avoid supplementary scans, which can cause significant downtime and additional wear on the machine.
This requires collaboration between radiologists and technicians, breaking away from traditional roles where only the technician handles scanning and the doctor focuses solely on diagnosis. Ideally, the doctor should perform the scan personally to ensure no lesions are missed, while also minimizing radiation exposure and reducing the financial burden on the patient and the facility.
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