Florida Hospital Zephyrhills New CT Scanner Minimizes Radiation and Optimizes Results

Florida Hospital Zephyrhills (FHZ) has purchased and installed a $1 million CT scanner in its outpatient department that offers high-end technology that's not available anywhere else in Zephyrhills and Dade City and provides many patient and clinical benefits.

FHZ chose to invest in the CT scanner for many reasons, said Laurie Hitzel, MS, CRA, RT (R)(M), the hospitals Administrative Director of Ancillary Clinical Services. We're excited because the Definition AS is recognized as an industry leader and our technology recommends the correct voltage based on the patients' anatomy and organ to be examined. Moreover, the Adaptive Dose Shield technology automatically blocks unnecessary radiation. We know that everyone's body is different, and this scanner can safely accommodate children to bariatric patients.

The Definition AS produces crisp images very quickly while providing organ sensitive protection for the heart, breasts, eyes and thyroid gland. And, with the Definition AS, cardiovascular CT scans can rule out coronary heart disease in less than a minute, Hitzel said. Neurology scans will provide answers to basic stroke questions such as whether the health event is caused by bleeding, the location and size of the dead tissue, and what the blood flow looks like. If a patient has metal implants, the system can still provide a sharp image of one's anatomy. And whereas some CT scans, like those of the spine, can be complex and involve a lot of manual preparation, this is not the case with FHZ's new scanner. The scanner is also excellent for individuals who are short of breath or have elevated heart rates.

Physicians at FHZ will be able to use the Definition AS to make a faster and more confident diagnosis in emergency situations, too. This is particularly true when someone is experiencing acute chest pain, abdominal pain or stroke symptoms. Well can even review the results before the patient has left the table, allowing us to promptly determine treatment options, Hitzel added.

We believe that investing in the Definition AS underscores our hospital's commitment to providing excellent patient care, Hitzel said. We are hopeful that individuals who need a CT scan will talk with their physician about coming to FHZ for their procedure. In the case of emergencies, this equipment may help to save lives.

Photo Caption: Members of FHZ's Imaging Service Computed Tomography Team pose for a photo by the hospitals new, $1 million CT scanner. From left are Jeffrey Penders, RT; Crystal Rollins, RN; David Rippe, MD, Chief of Radiology; Christina Helm, RN; Raj Patel, RT; David Taylor, RT; Chris Medina, RT; and Laurie Hitzel, Administrative Director Ancillary Clinical Services.

About Florida Hospital Zephyrhills

Florida Hospital Zephyrhills (FHZ) is an award-winning 149-bed regional medical center located in East Pasco County. It is a proud member of the Adventist Health System, providing a legacy of health and healing for more than 150 years. FHZ has been named One of Americas Best Hospitals for 2018 in heart care; stroke; orthopedics; and patient safety by the Women's Choice Award. The hospital is also the first in Florida to receive The Joint Commissions Gold Seal of Approval for Advanced Certification for Total Hip and Total Knee Replacement. FHZ offers the only comprehensive cardiovascular program in East and Central Pasco County, including open heart surgery and valve repair. Equipped with eight technologically advanced surgical suites, the hospital provides a full range of inpatient and outpatient surgical services including, but not limited to general, orthopedic, endoscopic, gynecology, urology, cardiovascular and robotic procedures. The Women's Health Center at FHZ provides gynecology, urology, pelvic floor health, obstetrics and breast care through the Simpson Breast Health Center. And, the hospitals recently renovated ER delivers emergency medical care 24/7 with a fast track suite for minor emergencies. Other programs and services include a Wellness Center, Wellness Spa, Center for Wound Healing, Bone and Joint Center, Outpatient Rehabilitation and Diagnostic Imaging. To learn more visit AdventHealth Zephyrhills.