Computed tomography utilization and charges in 1981.

Abstract

Data are reported from 94 medical computed tomography (CT) installations that operated 153 CT units in 1981. All CT installations began operation before 1977 and are the most experienced CT facilities in the United States. Sixty-five per cent of studies are head CT, and 68% of body CT procedures are in the abdomen and pelvis. Intravenous contrast material is used in almost 70% of body and 80% of head examinations. On average, each CT unit performs 62 patient procedures in a 56 hour week and is estimated to be operating at 90% capacity. The total typical charge is $324 for head CT and $362 for body CT. CT equipment with scanning times of less than 10 seconds per image is more efficient and examines more patients per hour. CT installations are continuing to increase in overall patient volume and in the percentage of body examinations, even in the most experienced CT installations.