Nowadays, detecting serious health diseases has become easy due to advanced medical technology. A computed tomography scan is an imaging scan which helps generate detailed images of the body’s bones and soft tissues by using X-rays and a computer. Be it an injury, fracture, or cancer, a CT scan is popularly used to detect many anomalies that cannot be diagnosed with a regular X-ray. In this article, let's explore what a CT scan is, its types and purposes.
What is a CT scan?
A CT scan is a diagnostic imaging test. Similar to X-ray, it helps doctors view the inner structures inside the body. The medical professionals suggest CT scans to look for abnormalities that conventional X-rays fail to detect. For instance, the internal body structures overlay in regular X-rays, and also certain things are not completely visible, whereas a CT scan produces detailed pictures of the internal structures.
What is a CT scan with contrast?
Certain CT scans are usually performed with contrast. Contrast material is a substance which is taken orally or injected into an IV line. This helps improve the picture quality. In most cases, gadolinium is used as a contrast agent, which is a rare earth material. However, some people might experience an allergic reaction due to the use of a contrast material. Additionally, individuals with a kidney disease cannot take contrast material. Therefore, if you have a kidney disease, make sure to tell your doctor.
What does a CT scan show?
A computed tomography uses radiation to show:
- Bones
- Muscles
- Blood vessels
- Organs
What are the uses of a CT scan?
A CT scan is commonly used to detect various injuries and diseases, such as:
- Fractures
- Blood clots
- Internal bleeding
- Certain types of cancer or tumours
- Brain injuries
- Heart disease
- Spinal cord injuries
- Bowel disorders
- Kidney stones
How is a CT scan performed?
Firstly, you will need to change your dress to a hospital gown. If your procedure is done with a contrast material, then an IV line will be inserted into your hand. On the other hand, if your doctor suggests taking contrast material orally, then you will be given liquid contrast material. You then lie on a table that slides into the round scanner. Also, the technician from a separate room will be able to see you. A small amount of radiation may pass through your body for short amounts of time. After that, a computer will transform the data into images.
Are there any risks of a CT scan?
Healthcare professionals usually consider CT scans to be safe. However, as this imaging procedure involves the use of radiation, it is important to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or you think you may be. On the other hand, exposure to radiation for a prolonged period of time may increase the risk of certain cancer. Also, some people may experience allergic reactions to the contrast material.
A computed tomography or CT scan is a painless imaging method that uses a small amount of radiation to generate detailed pictures of the bone, muscle, organs, and blood vessels. From detecting injuries to diagnosing certain cancer, healthcare professionals usually recommend CT scans to diagnose a wide range of health conditions. Therefore, ask your doctor any questions you may have about a CT scan if you are planning one.
