Computed tomography (CT) is a medical diagnostic technology that uses X-ray technology through a computer to create images of internal structures in the body. It is commonly used to diagnose conditions or damage to soft tissue or bone in various parts of the body. CT scans rotate the X-ray source around the targeted tissue to get many cross-sectional X-ray images of the focal point, which are then compiled to create a 3D image of the fabric in question. The procedure usually takes from thirty minutes to an hour and a half to complete. CT scans are used to diagnose tumors, deformities, aneurysms, infections, bone density problems, and other abnormalities.
Computed tomography, also called computed tomography, CAT scan, or CAT scan, is a medical diagnostic technology that creates images of internal structures in the body. These scans use X-ray technology done through a computer to image a section of the body. X-rays, a type of electromagnetic radiation with short wavelengths, are beamed through the targeted section of the body from different angles. The focal point appears as a clear, three-dimensional, or cross-sectional image, and other tissues in the area are blurred, making it easier for the doctor to differentiate the targeted tissues. Computed tomography is commonly used to diagnose conditions or damage to soft tissue or bone in the head, chest, joints, colon, lungs, and heart.
A normal X-ray scan beams X-rays through one part of the body from one source and receives the penetrating rays on a screen on the other part of the body. These rays are absorbed to varying degrees in the body depending on the density of internal organs, the screen captures more or less x-rays. This leaves energized particles on the screen documenting the tissues within, with denser tissues appearing whiter, less dense tissue appearing grayer and background appearing black. This image is then run through a computer to create a two-dimensional image of the body.
A computed tomography scan works in a similar way, but rotates the X-ray source around the targeted tissue to get many cross-sectional X-ray images of the focal point. These images are then compiled to create a 3D image of the fabric in question. One can imagine, however, that a compiled image of all these flat scans taken from so many different angles would be complex and difficult to differentiate. To solve this problem, CAT scanning machines rotate the beams around the body so that the targeted tissue is always in focus, but surrounding tissue becomes blurry.
A modern X-ray machine for CT scans usually looks like a large box or circle with a donut hole in the center. The patient is placed on a table which is moved into the machine so that the area to be examined is within the hole. The radiation oncologist, trained in radiology, will ask the patient to remain still during the examination to ensure the clearest results. The procedure usually takes from thirty minutes to an hour and a half to complete, although it can take more or less time depending on the patient. In some cases, a contrast medium may be injected into the patient before the scan to allow for better visualization of the blood vessels.
Computed axial tomography can be used on many sections of the body. In the head, doctors use CT scans to diagnose tumors, deformities, aneurysms and associated conditions, infections, bone density problems in the skull, and to check for bleeding or bone fractures after an injury. Chest X-rays can help diagnose aortic dissection or a fissure in the aorta, pulmonary embolisms or blockage of the pulmonary artery, pneumonia, lung cancer, and other lung abnormalities. A special computed tomography technique also allows images of the heart to be taken in a procedure called a cardiac CT. These typically try to rule out coronary artery disease as the cause of the chest symptoms.
CAT scans are also done on joints to look at fractures and on the abdomen and pelvis to look for infections, kidney stones, tumors, intestinal blockages, and other abnormalities. These tests shouldn’t cause any pain, although some patients may feel uncomfortable sitting still for the duration of the procedure. The amount of radiation typically used in computed tomography does not pose a great risk to adults, but it can increase the likelihood of developing cancer in children. Lower settings have been developed for use on children, although receiving an MRI or ultrasound instead of a CT scan is recommended whenever possible. Pregnant women should avoid radiation exposure unless absolutely necessary.
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