Computed Tomography (CT)
CT scanning—sometimes called CAT scanning—is a noninvasive, painless medical
test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.
CT imaging uses special x-ray equipment to produce multiple images
or pictures of the inside of the body and a computer to join them together
in cross-sectional views of the area being studied. The images can then
be examined on a computer monitor or printed.
CT scans of internal organs, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels provide
greater clarity than conventional x-ray exams.
Multiple Common uses of the CAT scan:
CT scanning of the abdomen/pelvis is typically used to help diagnose
the cause of abdominal pain and diseases of the bowel and colon, and also
performed to visualize the liver, spleen, pancreas and kidneys
CT imaging can also play a significant role in the detection, diagnosis
and treatment of vascular disorders that can lead to stroke, gangrene or
kidney failure.
CT of the chest is used to:
- further examine abnormalities found on conventional chest x-rays
- help diagnose clinical signs or symptoms of disease of the chest
- detect and evaluate the extent of tumors that arise in the lung and
mediastinum,
or tumors that have spread there from other parts of the body
- assess whether tumors are responding to treatment
- help plan radiotherapy
- screen for lung cancer or other lung disorders.
A CT angiogram (CTA) may be performed to evaluate the blood vessels (arteries
and veins) in the chest. This involves injecting the iodine into a vein a
little faster, and also, more numerous and thinner slices are obtained through
the chest in order to see the arteries to better advantage. See the CT
Angiography (CTA) page for more information.
Angiography - is
a minimally invasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose
and treat medical conditions. Angiography uses one of three imaging
technologies and, in some cases, a contrast material to produce pictures
of major blood vessels throughout the body.
CT scanning of the head is typically used to detect bleeding, brain
damage, skull fractures, aneurysms, blood clots, tumors, enlarged brain
cavities, diseases, fractures or malformations of the skull, inflammation
of sinuses, and to evaluate the extent of bone and soft tissue damage.
CT scanning of the spine is also performed to evaluate the spine, detect
tumors, help diagnose spinal pain, and measure bone density.
