Like all medical imaging examinations, computed tomography (CT) imaging requires a team effort. The computed tomography patient care team is headed by a radiologist. Other team members include CT technologists and frequently nurses who specialize in administering injections. Each of these professionals has an important set of responsibilities, described below.
The technologist seated at the CT control console and the radiologist discuss the patient's study
The Radiologist is a physician with specialist training (residency or fellowship training) who may be board-certified. After obtaining his or her medical doctorate (MD) or doctor of osteopathy (DO) degree, these physicians have additional special radiological training making them eligible for examination by the American Board of Radiology. This training includes special instruction in the safe use of x-ray radiation and the use and interpretation of CT images. The radiologist interprets the CT images and sends a report to the referring physician. The radiologist may also administer or oversee the contrast injection. The radiologist will perform any CT guided biopsy procedure or other intervention.
The CT Technologist is specially trained to operate the sophisticated CT systems. Typically, CT technologists have had two or more years of training in x-ray and computed tomography and are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). The CT technologist performs the patient examination under the supervision of the radiologist. The CT technologist may also administer the contrast injection required for some CT examinations.
Updated: September 13, 2007
