What is MiniCAT™?
Montana Allergy PLLC is ICACTL accredited for our ultra fast, point of care CT ScannerXoran MiniCat. The Xoran MiniCAT™ is a compact, upright volume computed tomography system designed for high-resolution bone window imaging of the sinuses, temporal bones and skull base. MiniCAT™ provides immediate access to images at the patient’s point-of-care, resulting in a faster diagnosis and treatment.
Patients will enjoy the convenience of ultra fast imaging, a faster diagnosis, and the ability to begin their treatment more quickly. MiniCAT™ has a lower radiation dose than conventional (full-body) CT, and affords patients the comfort of sitting upright in an open design, minimizing claustrophobia. Immediate imaging allows your patient to visualize their anatomy and leads to better compliance with the recommended treatment protocol.
Plain X-rays (like a basic chest x-ray) are not used much anymore in the evaluation of the sinuses anymore. The best image the sinuses can be obtained with a CT (computer tomography) scan. CT scans allow the physician to examine the sinuses in detailed cross-sections.
For the procedure, lean into a the CT scanner, which resembles a large donut. Unlike getting an MRI, it is rare for patients to feel claustrophobic because you are not enclosed within the scanner. The scan is painless and takes less than 10 minutes.