Life-Saving Diagnostic Technology

The imaging department at Southern Virginia Regional Medical Center (SVRMC) has Computed Tomography (CT), a diagnostic imaging test used to create detailed images of internal organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels. CT scanning is often the best method for detecting disease since the images allow radiologists to confirm the presence of abnormalities and determine size and location. CT is fast, painless, noninvasive and accurate. It is important that emergency rooms have access to CT because it can reveal internal injuries and bleeding quickly enough to help save lives.

Amanda Lynch, RTR (M)(CT), is a CT Tech that has worked at SVRMC for 15 years. When asked about her favorite part of the job, she says, “I enjoy knowing that I can make a difference in my patients’ well-being. I like working with the physicians as part of a team to provide our patients with quality care.” Lynch is currently working towards her Bachelor’s degree in Health Care Management.

SVRMC offers CT scans 24/7, 365 days a year. The most widely used procedure is a head CT to rule out a stroke, but CT is also used to diagnose pulmonary embolism, all forms of cancer and kidney stones. Recently, they had a patient that had been experiencing headaches for some time. The patient visited their primary care physician several times and finally decided to come to the emergency room. The Emergency room physician ordered a CT of the head and the patient was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumor that needed to be removed immediately. The patient has undergone the surgery and is doing well. Lynch explains, “This kind of situation happens more often than you would think. A routine CT can be lifesaving, because it can catch things we just can’t see from the outside.”

To make an appointment have your physician fax an order to (434) 348-4964. To find a provider near you, visit our physician directory.

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