256 slice CT scan x-ray tube beam silent quiet

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the auditory experience during a CT scan using a 256 slice CT scanner for low dose cardiac scoring. The participant noted the absence of the expected high-pitched sound from the x-ray tube when the beam was energized, only hearing the gantry's mechanical sounds and cooling fans. It was clarified that the x-ray systems typically include an audio signal for safety, which is often located at the operator station, explaining the lack of sound in the scanning room. The participant compared this experience to other imaging modalities, such as chest x-rays, where audible sounds are more prominent.

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  • Understanding of CT scan technology and operation
  • Familiarity with 256 slice CT scanners
  • Knowledge of radiation safety protocols in medical imaging
  • Awareness of audio signaling systems in medical devices
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  • Research the operational mechanics of 256 slice CT scanners
  • Learn about radiation safety measures and audio signaling in x-ray systems
  • Investigate the differences in sound production between various imaging modalities
  • Explore the design and functionality of operator stations in radiology departments
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This discussion is beneficial for radiologic technologists, medical imaging professionals, and anyone interested in the operational aspects of CT scanning technology and radiation safety protocols.

DWysWysD
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Just has my first CT scan ever for low dose cardiac scoring.

Held my breath twice with gantry in fixed position and then once again with gantry spinning. I thought I would have heard the high pitched x-ray when beam energized but didn't at all. All I heard was normal fans and the mechanicals of the gantry rotating. This was a 256 slice unit. I requested the best the hospital had. Shouldn't I have audibly heard the x-ray tube energized during beam on?

Any thoughts ?
 
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Request a copy of the file so you can look at it at your leisure.
Hopefully it will come with a small viewing program.
 
I'm not sure that an x-ray tube inherently makes enough noise to be heard - particularly over the cooling fans and gantry of the CT.

X-ray systems should have some kind of an audio signal to indicate that the beam is on. This isn't noise from the tube or the rotating anode inside the housing. It's intentionally added to the design along with a visual signal for safety - so that the operators can confirm that it turns on and shuts off as desired and that no one is exposed to any unintentional radiation dose. Chances are, you didn't hear this because it's outside the room, at the operator station.
 
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Very interesting. Ok thank you for that information. I was just thinking of things like chest x-rays and dental, you can hear the scanning/x-ray tube hissing for that fraction of time that it is energized. I think I have seen youtube videos where a camera is left on and you hear a high pitched tube sound.
 

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