Cat Scans

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CAT SCANS

A CAT Scan or CT Scan is also known as a computed axial tomography. The CT Scan is a technique that allows relatively safe, painless, and rapid diagnosis in previously inaccessible areas of the body. An X-ray tube, rotating around a specific area of the body, delivers an appropriate amount of X radiation for the tissue being studied. It then takes pictures of that part of the internal anatomy from different angles. The CT Scan creates a type of X-ray that uses a computer to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body. A computer program is then used to form a composite, a readable image. The images are then assembled in a computer into a three-dimensional picture that can display organs, bones, blood, and soft tissues in great detail. A CT Scan can take 10 minutes to about an hour depending on the area of the body to be examined.
CT Scans are done in various parts of the body. For example, CT Scans can be done in the pulmonary area to check for fluid (pulmonary edema), which could be a sign of congestive heart failure. CT Scans may also be done on the head for emergency treatment for a stroke. A scan of the back would show any problems with bulging or herniated discs. Also, a CT Scan may be done to assess for tumors or other disorders in other areas of the body.
There are some precautions to consider before a CT Scan exam can be administered. Since the CT Scan uses X-rays, pregnant women should not have an abdominal or chest CT Scan done. During the exam the physician will need to use a special dye, so the patient should report any history of blood clotting or allergic reactions to iodine, shellfish (crab or shrimp) or strawberries to the physician before the exam.
There are different methods of preparation depending on the type of CT Scan performed. For a CT Scan performed on the head there is no preparation unless a contrast medium is ordered, then you should not eat or drink for 4 to 6 hours before the ex...