Mishawaka, Ind. - Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center (SJRMC) continues its commitment to investing in technology and improving patient care and has purchased a dual-source, dual-energy CT scanner for its Mishawaka campus.

The new Siemens SOMATOM Definition Flash dual-source, dual-energy CT scanner will offer SJRMC patients a superior experience to traditional scanners, said David Hofstra, administrative director, Diagnostic Imaging and Therapy Divisions. He added that the new scanner decreases radiation exposure, scans at a much faster speed, is more comfortable for patients and pushes the envelope of the newest technology available.

"At SJRMC we believe it's important to have talented people and the best available healthcare technology for our community," Hofstra said. "Adding this scanner to our imaging services allows us to meet that commitment. The Definition Flash will complement our already advanced imaging capabilities, which include digital X-rays, nuclear medicine SPECT/CT technology and high-definition ultrasounds. This investment in imaging technology will create a superior patient-care experience and benefit the entire community's well-being."

Unlike typical single-tube CT scanners, the Definition Flash has two X-ray tubes, allowing it to scan at a faster speed. Hofsta said some scans will require a minimal breath hold, but clear pictures can be achieved with no breath hold at all. SJRMC Radiologist Steven Gerstler, MD, noted that the Definition Flash can take images of a beating heart without the aid of IV beta blocker medications that slow the heart down. The new scanner is so fast, sedation will not be necessary for pediatric or trauma patients.

Unique to the Definition Flash, is "dual-energy" scanning. Dual-energy scanning allows radiologists to see more clearly in patients that have metal implants.

"The Definition Flash will be safer for many of our patients and will produce crisp, clear images that allow us to see inside the patient like never before possible," Dr. Gerstler said. "This scanner's very unique abilities will greatly benefit our patients and may prevent unneeded, and costly, exploratory procedures."

The Definition Flash sets the benchmark for low radiation dose because of its comprehensive dose reduction software that delivers the minimum radiation dose necessary to obtain the best possible images, Dr. Gerstler said.

The Definition Flash will be installed at SJRMC's Mishawaka campus during the first week of April. For more information about imaging services at SJRMC, click here.

About Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center
Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center (SJRMC) is a not-for-profit, multi-hospital healthcare system located in North Central Indiana, offering a full range of services. SJRMC includes: a 254-bed acute care hospital at our Mishawaka Campus; a 58-bed acute care hospital at our Plymouth Campus; a 40-bed Rehabilitation Institute; Outpatient services of the Elm Road Medical Campus; and the Saint Joseph Physician Network that includes over 25 practices with more than 50 physicians. All inpatient rooms at all SJRMC facilities are private.

A Catholic Ministry Organization of Trinity Health, SJRMC offers personalized, faith-based care paired with the latest in advanced medical technology and procedures. In January 2012 SJRMC was name one of the nation's 15 Top Health Systems and awarded Top 5 for Small Health Systems. In July 2013, for the third year running, SJRMC was named one of the "Most Wired." For more information, please visit www.sjmed.com.

Contact: Robert Sisk, Public Relations Manager
Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center
robert.sisk@sjrmc.com
574-335-1077 (office)
574-472-2426 (pager)