A series of X-rays are taken as part of a diagnostic procedure called a CT scan (computed tomography scan), which combines them to produce an image of a cross-section or slice of the body. Physicians can see soft tissue and bones using a CT scan. Nearly every area of the body can be imaged, and the images can be used to diagnose a wide range of illnesses, such as cancer, blood clots and bone fractures.
What Is Computed Tomography Scan (CT Scan)?
When is a CT scan needed?
CT scans are typically used for:
- Analysis of the shape or structure of a bodily portion
- Diagnosis of conditions, especially cancer
- Evaluation of an injury or trauma
- Identification of cardiovascular illness
- Assisting in the planning of certain procedures
- Assisting in radiotherapy planning
- Visual assistance for administering radiation therapy
- Visual assistance for some interventional (into the body) procedures, which includes needle aspiration or biopsy
- Bone length measurement
- Alternative for certain kinds of diagnostic or exploratory surgery
CT Scan Procedure
- For the contrasted study, the patient, attending nurse and radiologist will explain and sign off a consent form.
- For the contrasted study, a small needle will be inserted into the patient’s vein.
- It will be necessary for you to lie down flat on a couch that slides into the scanner gantry centre point.
- The x-ray beam of the scanner revolves around you once you are inside.
- Slices, or discrete images of the body part, are produced by a computer. These pictures can be copied to a disc, saved, or shown on a monitor. By stacking the thin slices together, three-dimensional (3D) representations of the body area can be produced.
- Throughout the test, you must remain motionless because movement will distort the images. Depending on the area of interest, you may be instructed to hold your breath briefly for a few seconds. Most scans take only a few seconds or a few minutes to complete.
Applications
- CT is frequently used to diagnose many malignancies, including those of the liver, lungs, and pancreas.
- A medical professional can confirm a tumour’s existence, location, size, and extent of tissue damage by looking at the image.
- Important details about the brain, such as whether there is any bleeding, artery enlargement, or tumour, can be learned from a brain scan.
- A CT scan can identify any swelling or inflammation in the surrounding internal organs and an abdominal tumour. Any abnormalities in the liver, kidneys, or spleen can be noticed.
- A contrasted CT scan can give important information on blood flow and other vascular disorders and help choose biopsies and radiation therapy sites because it can identify abnormal tissue.
- It can assist medical professionals in evaluating bone disorders and the condition of the patient’s spine.
- Important information regarding injuries to a patient’s hands, feet, and other skeletal structures can also be obtained from it. It is easy to see even little bones and the tissue around them.
The risks associated with a CT scan
The CT scan is an exceptionally safe process. Some patients may experience nausea for a brief period following an injection of iodinated contrast. An allergic reaction to this contrast can occur in rare cases. Patients with a known allergy history will be given a steroid before contrast injection.
Remove All Metal Objects
Before entering the CT scan room, the patient may need to change into a hospital gown (depending on the scan area) and remove everything containing metal from the patient’s body.
Hair clips
Watches and Jewels
Bra for Ladies
Dentures if the scan involves head/mandible/neck
Hearing aids devices if the scan concerns the skull/head/neck area.
Patches for medications (such as nicotine or pain patches)
Following a CT scan, how to care for yourself at home
The CT scan is a relatively safe, painless, and non-invasive treatment. Most individuals do not require any time for recovery. If you follow your doctor’s instructions, you may usually get back to your regular activities as soon as you leave.
At Beacon Hospital, our 160-slice CT scanner promises optimal image quality with a shorter scan time. The scanner is also actively used for radiotherapy simulation planning, fiducial insertion and CT-guided biopsy.
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