64 slice CT...How high will they go!

The remarkable 64-slice computed tomography(CT) technology is a recent, non-invasive method for angiography. The CT can help doctors detect conditions such as artery stenosis and atherosclerosis. Studies show that the CT is successful in predicting severe blockage, and that CT pateints have a shorter duration of stay and lower health care costs. However, this new CT is thought to porduce low levels of ionizing radiation. The National Research Council predicts that approximately 1 in 100 CT pateints will develop leukemia. That's one too many. Another troubling aspect of the CT is the high cost of each test:$700-$1000. The writer of the article jokes that by the time doctors determine if the 64 slice CT will be cost effective, the 256-slice will be on the scene.

http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/295/17/1989