Related Experiment Videos
Efficiency of utilization of a computed tomography scanner
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|July 1, 1978
Summary
Efficient computed tomography (CT) brain scanner use requires understanding patient throughput. Faster scanners won't significantly reduce brain scan costs compared to older models, despite diagnostic benefits for body imaging.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Neuroradiology
Background:
- Computed tomography (CT) brain scanners are diagnostically effective but costly.
- Efficient patient throughput is crucial for optimizing scanner utilization and managing costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze time factors influencing patient throughput for CT brain scanners.
- To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of first-generation CT scanners versus newer models for brain imaging.
Main Methods:
- A time-motion study was conducted at UCLA Medical Center using an EMI Mark I CT brain scanner.
- Data collected included patient numbers, time per patient, scan duration, image acquisition, and patient handling time.
Main Results:
- Average patient throughput was 16.3 patients per 15.5-hour workday (52.7 min/patient).
- Scanning averaged 34.6 min/patient, while patient handling (including contrast) took 16.2 min/patient (34.4% of total time).
- 14% of scheduled appointments were cancelled or missed, highlighting the need for flexible scheduling.
Conclusions:
- First-generation CT brain scanners processed approximately 16 patients daily, with significant time spent on patient handling.
- Newer, faster CT scanners may not offer substantial cost reductions per patient for brain imaging compared to earlier machines.
- Flexible scheduling is essential due to high cancellation rates, impacting overall scanner efficiency.