First in region advanced CT scanner now deployed at UC Davis Health 48X Complex

Imagine getting a CT scan that shows clearer details, reduces radiation exposure and makes it easier for doctors to differentiate between tissues more easily. That's the promise of photon-counting computed tomography (PCCT), which is now available at the UC Davis Health 48X Complex.

The new photon-counting technology is the latest diagnostic tool deployed by the Department of Radiology. It is the first in the region.

At the heart of the innovation is a special material that can detect X-rays with incredible precision. The maker of the computed tomography technology, Siemens Healthineers, calls the ingredient the purest cadmium telluride crystal in the world. The crystals help directly convert X-rays into an electrical signal, which is then used to create an image. The energy of each X-ray is measured, so spectral information is available for every scan, and the images are contrast-rich with high spatial resolution.

"The photon-counting CT is breakthrough technology that could transform medical imaging," said Cardiothoracic Imaging Section Chief Ahmadreza Ghasemiesfe, of UC Davis Health. "Instead of blending all the X-ray energy together like traditional CT, this technology counts each photon and measures its energy. That means sharper images and more information for diagnosis."

Another benefit is greater efficiency, which means less radiation exposure, and that's especially important for children and patients who need multiple scans.

What makes it different?

Traditional CT scanners measure the total energy from X-rays in a broad way, but PCCT takes a more precise approach. It counts individual photons and records their energy. This allows doctors to see more detail and even separate materials - like calcium and iodine - in the same scan. It also produces clearer scans around difficult areas, such as metal implants or dense bone.

"Think of it like upgrading from black-and-white TV to full color," said the chair of the Department of Radiology, Elizabeth Morris. "We can see things we couldn't before, which helps us diagnose conditions earlier and more accurately."

Taking cancer detection to next level

PCCT has already been adopted at UC Davis Health for heart imaging, helping doctors spot tiny plaques in arteries. Its use is also being explored for cancer detection. As the technology counts each photon and measures its energy, it delivers spectral data - creating virtual contrast maps that highlight tumors more clearly and often eliminates the need for separate scans.

It captures ultra-high-resolution images, down to 0.2-millimeter slices. This enables radiologists to detect tiny tumors and early metastatic spread that conventional CT may miss.

"We're excited about its potential in personalized medicine," Morris said.

Patients who want more information on the photon-counting CT and other imaging options at UC Davis Health, may contact the Department of Radiology at .