Bariatric diagnostic CT scanning: A radiotherapy perspective

Weaving, V.; Fox, L.; Smith, S.; Smith, Simon; St John-Matthews, J.; Fox, Louise; Weaving, Victoria

Abstract

© 2015 The College of Radiographers. Obesity is increasing in the United Kingdom. Equipment available for this patient group including wheelchairs, beds and hoists is becoming more common in the hospital environment; diagnostic imaging equipment that can accommodate bariatric patients has not increased at the same rate. Subsequently these service-users are often unable to receive "gold-standard" cross-sectional imaging within their patient-pathway. This paper highlights how a diagnostic imaging department has utilised wide-bore CT scanning equipment within the radiotherapy setting to ensure an equitable service for all service users. Through literature review and local experience, a standard operating procedure and scanning service has been developed. Areas explored include technical consideration of scanner design; patient positioning; image artefacts and intravenous contrast administration. Also investigated is patient wellbeing incorporating manual handling, respiration and psycho-social needs.Additionally, demonstration of how interprofessional collaboration by diagnostic and radiotherapy radiographers can ensure the best imaging experience and outcome for this patient group.

• Journal Article Type: Review
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2015
• Journal: Radiography
• Print ISSN: 1078-8174
• Electronic ISSN: 1532-2831
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 21
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 288-293
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2014.12.013
• Keywords: collaboration, bariatric, computed tomography, manual handling
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/830680
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.radi.2014.12.013