What Is Computerized Tomography -- Or The CAT Scan?
HAT IS A C.T.
SCAN? A CT scan, sometimes referred to as
a CAT scan, is a computer assisted medical
imaging technique. Physicians have been using
CT imaging for more than a decade to produce
pictures or images of the body for use in
medical diagnosis. In short, this x-ray
technique allows the radiologist to see
detailed pictures of various parts of your
body, without surgery.
OW DOES IT WORK?
While the patient lies on the examination
table, small amounts of x-rays are projected
through a specific region of the body. This
series of pictures is then processed through
a computer. The computer converts the
information from the scan into images that
are photographed for the radiologist to
study. One of the recent developments in
Computer Tomography is Spiral CT scanning.
Spiral CT allows for continuous scanning
through a specific body area, drastically
reducing the time it takes to complete the
exam. Spiral CT scanning is available at
several Advanced Radiology locations. All of
our equipment is licensed by the Maryland
State Department of Health and Mental
Hygiene. If you have any questions about our
CT equipment, our technologists will be happy
to answer them.
OUR CT EXPERIENCE
The technologist, who is an expert in the use
of this specialized equipment, will help you
in any preparation needed. You will then be
helped onto the CT table, and then positioned
for the scan.
A loose band may be used to keep you in
position. If a contrast medium is
required, it may be administered at this
time. During the scan, you will feel the
table move each time the scan is performed.
You will also hear a whirring noise or a high
pitched beep. Just relax as these sounds are
a normal part of the machine operation. In
order to obtain the best images possible, the
technologist may ask you to hold your breath
for a short time.
Throughout the exam, it is important to lie
as still as possible since any movement will
blur the final image. The entire examination
should take about 30 minutes.
HAT HAPPENS AFTER I
AM FINISHED?
All images will be reviewed by a radiologist.
A report of the results will be sent to your
physician the next day. He may also be sent
copies of pertinent scan sections. Of course,
urgent findings will be called in
immediately.
Click here
for information on Preparation for a Computed
Tomography (CT) Exam.