Department of Internal Medicine
Department of Internal Medicine

About Us

The Preclinical CT is a core lab within The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, featuring a rare CT system specialized for rapid high resolution imaging of objects up to size of large rabbits. It is a member of the Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences.

 

The CT System Advantage

GE eXplore UltraExcellent Image Quality
The GE eXplore Ultra provides high-quality images with contrast to-noise, resolution and dose performance optimized for pre-clinical imaging.

Optimized workflow and data mangement
Short scan times simplify animal handling by reducing requirements for extended anesthesia, temperature regulation, respiratory gating or ventilation and saving animal care technician time - giving you quick answers to your daily research.

  • The GE eXplore Ultra is a volume CT system designed for high resolution, high speed small animal and specimen imaging.
  • 24cm bore and large transaxial field of view designed to accommodate rodents and rabbits.
  • Variable energy X-ray tube(up to 140 kVp) permits optimization of scanning protocols for varying objects of interest.
  • Gangry speeds as fast as 1 rotation per second can be used for dynamic imaging applications.

 

Applications

     
Skeletal Imaging
 Skeletal Imaging

X-ray based computed tomography is an ideal modality for observing bone characteristics. Parameters such as Bone Mineral Density (BMD) are readily quantified. The eXplore Ultra allows exceptional CT imaging of clinical specimens at resolutions not possible in standard clinical systems.
     
Pulmonary Imaging
 Pulmonary Imaging

In conjunction with a small animal respirator or manual breath holds, high quality images of the lungs in live animals can be obtained, at either inspiration or expiration.
     
Cardiovascular Imaging
 Cardiovascular imaging

With the introduction of I.V. contrast agents, detailed images of the vascular system can be obtained. Sequential or serial imaging can be performed for physiological information such as tissue perfusion. Cardia and/or Respiratory Gating is an available option.
     
Other Applications
 other applications

High resolution renal, hepatobiliary, and gastrointestinal anatomical imaging are all possible with the use of CT contrast agents.


Pricing

As a non-profit service provider, costs are relatively low at $275/hr; with the system’s high throughput,
the per-scan cost is often less than $25. Pricing for non-academic groups is $550/hr.

 

Location

The IMED CT imaging suite is located on the fifth floor of the Medical School Building in room 5.302.

 

Contact Us

For additional information, specifics, or to submit an imaging request, email MS.IMED.CT@uth.tmc.edu or call 713-500-5582.