The Computerized Tomography (CT) Department, in addition to performing standard examinations of the chest, abdomen and pelvis for detection of neoplastic or inflammatory conditions, is also using cutting edge CT technologies for diagnosis and treatment options not previously available. In addition to CT scanners using helical technology, the departments at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Sentara Leigh Hospital offer the newest scanners with multidetector-row platform.

Some of the abdominal techniques now used routinely include 3D CT angiography for renal transplant donors and renal evaluation prior to laparoscopic surgeries, evaluation of abdominal aortic aneurysms for stent graft placement, multiphasic and multiplanar evaluation of neoplasm of liver, kidneys and pancreas, and CT densitometry for evaluation of adrenal masses.

Chest evaluations includes high resolution CT for interstitial lung disease and nodule studies, standard CT studies of the lungs for infection and cancer evaluation, and 3D imaging for non-invasive evaluation for pulmonary embolism.

The CT Section also offers a wide range of image-guided diagnostic and therapeutic options that may be alternatives to surgical intervention with minimal patient discomfort. Procedures offered include core biopsies or fine neele aspirations, diagnostic and therapeutic fluid aspirations, and catheter placement for drainage of abscesses or pleural collections.