What is a CT scan?

bloguerouniversal

· 14 Apr 2022

What is a CT scan?

#health

A CT scan is a medical exam that takes pictures of the organs inside your body using x-ray technology. The images are taken crosswise, meaning they are “slices” of the body, from the top of the area being viewed towards the bottom. It's like I'm cutting the body like a loaf of bread. These cuts help the radiologist look at organs, tissues, and bones in small parts. They can also be put together to create 3D images.

A CT scan can be done quickly, so it can be used in an emergency. One example is the use of a head CT scan to check for bleeding in the brain. CT scans are often used to determine if a person has cancer and, if they have cancer, whether they have grown. After cancer treatments, CT scans are used to see how well the treatments worked.

How do I prepare for a CT scan?
How to prepare for a CT scan depends on what is being examined or whether a contrast medium (dye) is being used. If intravenous contrast is used, you may not eat for 4 hours before the test. This is because intravenous contrast can cause a stomach reaction or upset. If the CT scan involves looking at the stomach or intestines, you may be given a dye that you should drink. This is done to be able to tell the difference between the intestines and other structures. Contrast can also be given through an enema.

If you are receiving intravenous contrast, it will be given to you before the test or during the test. It does not hurt, but some patients feel hot or blushed after they are given, and this is normal. Some patients have allergic reactions to contrast. If you have ever had a reaction, you should tell your provider before the test. You may be given steroids and Benadryl to prevent any reaction.

How is this test done?

The CT scan is done while you are lying on a flat table. This stretcher moves in and out of a ring containing the “camera”. It is important that you remain still during the exam. You may be asked to hold your breath for short periods. The test will take between 15 and 45 minutes. You will be alone in the room, but a technician will be able to contact you. The test is not painful, but some people find it difficult to lie still. The technician will help you get comfortable.

During the test, X-rays pass through the patient and hit a detector behind him. As X-rays pass through the patient, some are diverted by bones and soft tissue. These X-rays create an image. The computer processes them to create an image of the patient, cut by cut. A radiologist, who is a doctor who specializes in looking at different types of images, looks at the scan and creates a report.