With the help of our generous donors, Speare now offers the latest in CT imaging technology with the Philips Ingenuity CT scanner. This system offers many features and functions that allow for continued improvement and enhancement of scanning capability, image quality, and dose reduction for patients.

This system offers many new features and functions including:

•  Faster scans
• Lower dose of radiation
• Higher quality images
• Stroke assessments
• More vascular exam options
• Advanced CT angiography
• Up to 650 lb weight limit
• Exams for those with large metal implants

There are many improvements with the new Ingenuity scanner. Additional dose reduction techniques have been implemented. This allows for a custom tailored dose profile for each patient in regards to image quality and patient safety. The overall scan times are reduced allowing for peak optimal bolus enhancement in regards to Computerized Tomographic Angiography (CTA) work for which timing needs to be perfect. This improves the quality of CTA exams and reduces non-diagnostic scans, repeat exams, and the need to transfer patients to other facilities for additional imaging.

The table weight limit has been increased, which allows for additional care of a patient population not previously able to receive imaging at our facility. This has been utilized on multiple occasions, and we are able to provide a quality study, at a low dose for our bariatric patients.

CTA COW exams used to confirm the presence of small aneurysms associated with the Circle of Willis, and Carotid exams have improved immensely, allowing physicians to have more confidence in their diagnoses due to the improved imaging. Also, the new CT scanner allows Radiologists to better visualize small incremental changes, which improves visualization which is key in finding subtle changes.

Additional exams have also been added cush as the CTA Abdomen and Iliofemoral run-off exams so patients no longer have to travel elsewhere to have these advanced imaging scans. The enhancements and improvements to the Ingenuity platform allow for Speare’s patient population to receive the highest quality imaging while staying in our community.

The Speare radiology department has been recognized twice this year for exceptional dedication and service in training students to become competent radiographers. Speare radiology is a clinical site for New Hampshire Technical Institute (NHTI)-Concord’s Community College

A letter from NHTI reads, “Your team of sonographers possess not only a high level of knowledge and technical expertise but the ability to teach students how to work effectively, with confidence, compassion and respect. Even during their busiest days, they welcome the challenge of being clinical educators to our students. Students succeed as a direct result of the dedication of your team of sonographers. Our clinical education program could not succeed without your continued support, and we value your contributions.”