Computed Tomography (CT) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses special X-ray equipment to obtain cross-sectional images of the body. These images, often referred to as slices, allow doctors to visualize the inside of the body in detail. CT scans are particularly useful for examining the brain, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and other areas of the body.
During a CT scan, the patient lies on a table that moves through a doughnut-shaped machine called a CT scanner. The scanner emits X-rays from multiple angles around the body, and detectors measure the amount of radiation that passes through the body. A computer processes this information to create detailed cross-sectional images, which can be viewed on a monitor and saved for further analysis.
CT scans are valuable for diagnosing various medical conditions, including injuries, tumors, infections, and internal bleeding. They are often used in emergency medicine to quickly assess trauma patients, as well as in cancer diagnosis and treatment planning. CT scans are non-invasive and typically painless, although patients may be asked to hold their breath briefly during the scan to minimize motion blur in the images.
While CT scans provide detailed anatomical information, they do involve exposure to ionizing radiation, which carries a small risk of cancer, especially with repeated scans. However, the benefits of CT imaging usually outweigh the potential risks, especially when it comes to diagnosing serious medical conditions. Additionally, advancements in CT technology, such as low-dose techniques and iterative reconstruction algorithms, help to minimize radiation exposure while maintaining image quality.
