A CT scan uses a combination of X-rays on any part of the body to rule out any abnormalities. The procedure for conducting a CT Scan does not take very long and hence it’s painless. It uses a computer to create pictures inside your organs, bones and other vital tissues. If you are wondering how a CT works ? Then let’s see the procedure closely. It uses a narrow X-Ray beam that generally circles around the part of the body being examined. It provides a series of images that are taken from different angles and sides.
A CT scan can be done at the hospital or radiology clinic. You might be advised not to drink before the procedure. During the CT scan, you are expected to lie down on a table. As the table moves, it produces loud and whirring noises. You may be asked to hold your breath at times, and the duration of the procedure will greatly depend on what parts of the body are being scanned.
CT and Angiography- Angiography or Angiogram is done to assess a person’s risk of any kind of heart disease. This type of scan can point out if there is damage to the blood vessels, such as aneurysm or any kind of blockages.
CT and Bone Scan- An x-ray can detect a fracture or any kind of problem with the bones. A CT scan can give although more information as the traditional X-rays result are inconclusive and less detailed, whereas a CT Scan can provide with a clearer picture of the soft tissues near and surrounding the bones.
CT scan and Spine-Spinal scans capture the images of the bony spinal, the soft tissues of the spinal column. It can help a doctor assess injury to the area, diagnose the herniated discs, and be ready for any process that is prior to the surgery.
CT scan and Kidneys- A CT scan of the kidneys is to detect what’s going on and confirm if there are any stones in the kidney. It can help to detect tumors and if there is a warning or signs of kidney diseases.
CT scan of the neck-This process typically captures the images of the neck from the base of the skull to the top of the lungs without any troubles. It can be useful in detecting the tumors or masses in the neck and abnormal growths.
Some types of the CT Scans require the use of a special chemical agent called the contrast. This process makes the soft tissues easier to see, and this contrast of dye doesn’t allow changing the color of the organs. CT scans use relatively less radiation and the risk is very small. Radiation is harmful to children as they are still growing and there may be more instances where they need to get exposed to radiation. Let your doctor know beforehand if you are pregnant, or you are expecting, so that he/she can suggest other modes of test.
