CT Scan or CAT Scan: How Does it Work?
Some medical cases require you to get a CT scan to help doctors thoroughly understand your condition. Your doctor may suggest a CAT scan to get a detailed image of internal body structures that are produced by combining data from multiple X-rays and creating an image using computers. If you or your loved one is undergoing a CT scan, you may probably want to know everything about it.
Let us understand how does a CT scan or CAT scan work-
What is a CT Scan?
A computerized tomography (CT) or computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan combines details received by X-rays and computers to create detailed images of your internal organs and tissues.
When is CT Scan Used?
CT scan is used to obtain images and find the presence and other details of tumors for liver, lung, and pancreatic cancers. Brain and abdomen CT scans can provide information for internal bleeding and swellings. It can also show lacerations of the spleen, kidneys, and liver. Doctors also use it to plan for radiotherapy and biopsy. It can also provide vital details about bone density and injuries in any organ and skeletal system of the patient.
Which Body Parts Can You Get a CT Scan?
A CT Scan is suggested for-
- Soft tissues
- Blood vessels
- Lungs
- Brain
- Abdomen
- Bones
- Pelvis
How Does a CT Scan Work?
A CT scanner emits numerous narrow beams through the patient’s body as they move through an arc. This step provides a series of images from multiple angles. The computer creates a cross-sectional picture using this data. The process is repeated, and the computer stacks these scans to create a detailed image of your complete body, including your organs, bones, or blood vessels.
CT Scan FAQs-
1. Are there any risks of a CT scan?
Compared to a single dose of radiation from X-rays, a CT scan involves multiple targeted X-ray radiations. While we encounter radiations all through our life, these small doses add up over time and cause cancer or thyroid problems. However, the probability of developing these issues dues to a CT scan is less than 1 in 2000. Your doctor will only suggest a CAT scan if they have a compelling reason and the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
2. Can a CT scan affect my pregnancy?
If you are a lactating mother, you should avoid breastfeeding for the next twenty-four hours as the dye can pass into breast milk.
3. Can a claustrophobic person get a CT scan?
Inform your doctor and radiologist about your claustrophobia. You will be given medications to calm you down before the procedure.
About Open MRI 17-
Need a CT scan? Open MRI 17 is an Outpatient Diagnostic Imaging Center located on Route 17 in Paramus, New Jersey. We provide high-quality imaging services, including MRI, CT Scans, Ultrasound, Echocardiogram, and X-Ray. Excellent patient care, comfort, and experience are some of our top priorities. From the moment you walk in to the moment you leave, you will be greeted with a smile and be treated like family. In addition, you can be assured a quick follow-up with results for both you and your healthcare provider.
Visit
our website, call us at (201) 368-2005, or
email us to learn more and schedule your appointment for any of our services.
