CT Scans – The Know How
What is a CT Scan?
A computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan allows doctors to see inside your body. It uses a combination of X-rays and a computer to create pictures of your organs, bones, and other tissues. It shows more detail than a regular X-ray.
You can get a CT scan on any part of your body. The procedure doesn’t take very long, and it’s painless.
How Do CT Scans Work?
They use a narrow X-ray beam that circles around one part of your body. This provides a series of images from many different angles. A computer uses this information to create a cross-sectional picture. Like one piece in a loaf of bread, this scan shows a “slice” of the inside of your body.
This process is repeated to produce a number of slices. The computer stacks these scans one on top of the other to create a detailed image of your organs, bones, or blood vessels. For example, a surgeon may use this type of scan to look at all sides of a tumor to prepare for an operation.
At Avala Imaging Center our CT scanner, the Phillips Diamond Select Brillance provides 64-slices and high-quality images.
How Are CT Scans Done?
You’d probably get a scan at a hospital or radiology clinic.
Avala Imaging Center – Rated #1 Imaging Center on the Northshore!
Your doctor might tell you not to eat or drink for a few hours before the procedure. You may also need to wear a hospital gown and remove any metal objects, such as jewelry.
A radiology technologist will perform the CT scan. During the test, you’ll lie on a table inside a large, doughnut-shaped CT machine. As the table slowly moves through the scanner, the X-rays rotate around your body. It’s normal to hear a whirring or buzzing noise. Movement can blur the image, so you’ll be asked to stay very still. You may need to hold your breath at times.
How long the scan takes will depend on what parts of your body are being scanned. It can take anywhere from a few minutes to a half-hour. In most cases, you’ll go home the same day.
What Is It Used For?
- Doctors order CT scans for a long list of reasons:
- CT scans can detect bone and joint problems, like complex bone fractures and tumors.
- If you have a condition like cancer, heart disease, emphysema, or liver masses, CT scans can spot it or help doctors see any changes.
- They show internal injuries and bleeding, such as those caused by a car accident.
- They can help locate a tumor, blood clot, excess fluid, or infection.
- Doctors use them to guide treatment plans and procedures, such as biopsies, surgeries, and radiation therapy.
- Doctors can compare CT scans to find out if certain treatments are working. For example, scans of a tumor over time can show whether it’s responding to chemotherapy or radiation.
Contact Us
If you have questions about Avala’s Imaging Center or our MRI, CT, or X-ray scans, give us a call at 985.801.6216 and speak with one of our Imaging Center experts today. We accept all insurances. A pre-authorization is not required for cash price services.
“WebMD Medical Reference: What is a CT Scan?” Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD on December 22, 2018, https://wb.md/2PdagYd