What is CT Imaging?
Computerized tomography imaging or CT imaging is a scan that allows doctors to see inside your body. In CT imaging, X-ray images of your body are taken from different angles. These images are then processed with a computer to create cross-sectional images of the bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels inside the body. Just like an X-ray, a CT scan, or CT Imaging is a painless process.
Types of CT ImagingÂ
CT Imaging can be done for any part of the body. However, the procedure may differ for each body part. The most common types of CT Imaging are:
- Basic CT Imaging
CT Imaging which does not require any preparation or contrast medication on the part of the patient. These include:
- CT Bones (used to detect fractures in any bones of the body).
- CT Sinuses.
- IV Contrast CT Imaging
In this type of CT scan, the patient may need to inject iodine or a similar contrast substance. The contrast injection is delivered intravenously; i-e., the surgical technician shall inject the substance into your veins.
The contrast substance enhances the details in the blood vessels and soft tissues. It highlights the targeted areas, making it easier for radiologists or surgeons to diagnose cancer pathologies.
CT imaging scans which may require IV contrast are:
- CT Head.
- CT Neck Soft Tissue.
- CT Extremities.
- CT Spine.
- CT Chest.
- CT Urogram.
- CT Stone Search.
- IV/Oral Contrast CT Imaging
Oral contrast is used to highlight pathologies and details in the digestive tract. If you had prescribed an Oral contrast CT scan, you would have to contrast medicine by mouth.
The CT imaging scans which require oral contrast may include:
- CT Abdomen.
- CT Pelvis.
Who Needs CT Imaging?
A CT scan allows the doctors and radiologists to examine a cross-sectional view of the body. It will enable them to view the injured/damaged area from all angles to make an accurate diagnosis.
A CT scan is necessary and useful in the following conditions:
- To diagnose muscle and bone disorders such as a bone tumor or fracture.
- To pinpoint the location of a tumor, infection, or blood clot.
- To detect any pathology such as cancer, liver masses, heart disease, and lung diseases.
- To guide surgical procedures, radiology, and biopsy.
- To identify internal injuries and internal bleeding.
- To monitor the progress of radiation therapy or medical treatments (such as cancer treatment).
How is CT Imaging Performed?
A CT imaging scan is a simple procedure that can be performed within minutes. You don’t need to be anxious, keep the following steps in mind to prepare for a CT scan.
Prepare for a CT Scan
- Do not eat or drink for a few hours before the CT Scan.
- Make sure to take your IV contrast/Oral Contrast if it has been asked. A CT technician or medical staff member will administer the contrast.
- Remove metal objects such as watches, jewelry, dentures, eyeglasses, and belt buckles.
- Wear the hospital gown, which has been provided to you.
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FAQ’S
What Are Different Types of CT Scans?
The most common types of CT scan are:
- CT Scan of Bones.
- CT Scan of Brain.
- CT Scan of Head.
- CT Scan of Chest/Lungs.
Does a CT Scan Show Inflammation?
- CT Scan is mostly used to diagnose cancer of the liver, lungs, or pancreas.
- The tumor or swelling of the organs is visible in the case of a CT scan.
What Will a CT Scan of Foot Show?
- The CT scan of a foot shows the alignment of the bones and joints.
- The curved angles of the foot or space in the joints can be easily diagnosed through a foot scan.
Will a CT Scan Show a Hairline Fracture?
- Your specialist may identify the fractures by examining your injury level through the help of an X-ray test.
- In case if the results are still not visible, then your specialist may ask you for a CT Scan or MRI Scan of the bone.
