(CT) Scan

A computerized tomography (CT) scan combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles and uses computer processing to create cross-sectional images, or slices, of the bones, blood vessels and soft tissues inside your body. CT scan images provide more detailed information than plain X-rays do.

What are some common uses of the procedure?

CT imaging is:

• one of the fastest and most accurate tools for examining the chest, abdomen and          pelvis because it provides detailed, cross-sectional views of all types of tissue.
• used to examine patients with injuries from trauma such as a motor vehicle accident.
• performed on patients with acute symptoms such as chest or abdominal pain or difficulty breathing.
• often the best method for detecting many different cancers, such as lymphoma and cancers of the lung, liver, kidney, ovary and pancreas since the image allows a physician to confirm the presence of a tumor, measure its size, identify its precise location and determine the extent of its involvement with other nearby tissue.
• an examination that plays a significant role in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases that can lead to stroke, kidney failure or even death. CT is commonly used to assess for pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung vessels) as well as for aortic aneurysms.
• invaluable in diagnosing and treating spinal problems and injuries to the hands, feet and other skeletal structures because it can clearly show even very small bones as well as surrounding tissues such as muscle and blood vessels.

In pediatric patients, CT imaging is often used to evaluate:

• lymphoma
• neuroblastoma
• kidney tumors
• congenital malformations of the heart, kidneys and blood vessels
• cystic fibrosis
• complications of acute appendicitis
• complications of pneumonia
• inflammatory bowel disease
• severe injuries

Radiologists and radiation oncologists often use the CT examination to:

1. quickly identify injuries to the lungs, heart and vessels, liver, spleen, kidneys, bowel or other internal organs in cases of trauma.
2. guide biopsies and other procedures such as abscess drainages and minimally invasive tumor treatments.
3. plan for and assess the results of surgery, such as organ transplants or gastric bypass.
4. stage, plan and properly administer radiation treatments for tumors as well as monitor response to chemotherapy.
5. measure bone mineral density for the detection of osteoporosis.

This info taken from thttp://www.radiologyinfo.org/