What is Computed Tomography?

The principle of computer tomography is based on the projection of x-rays through the body onto an electronic detector. A computer then reconstructs the individual x-ray projections into a three-dimensional image. The radiation dose from CT scans is relatively low, and as such, the risks associated with them are very low.

The information on computed tomography is generally to help diagnose medical conditions. CT scans have a possible cancer-causing agent, one of the most widely used imaging modalities. In 2010, researchers estimated that 29,000 future cancer cases could be related to CT examinations performed in the U.S. from 1980 through 2008.

What Is Computed Tomography?

Computer tomography, also known as CT scanning or CAT scanning, is a medical imaging x-ray method that produces cross-sectional body images. You can use it to diagnose various conditions and diseases, including cancer, stroke, and heart disease.

Some of the features of the computed tomography include:

1. It produces high-resolution images of the body to diagnose various conditions and diseases.
2. CT scans are non-invasive and do not involve radiation. It is one of the most accurate imaging tests used to diagnose internal injuries.
3. It is now available for use by your general practitioner, eliminating the need for referrals.
4. The scans are painless and generally take less than five minutes to complete. It also has significantly fewer side effects (not all may have).
5. CT scans are often used to diagnose cancer, stroke, and heart disease. It can often detect tumours or other abnormal areas which are not visible on a traditional x-ray. They can also use it to make detailed images of the brain, abdomen, breast, and other body parts.
6. CT Scan is extensively used in medical diagnosis to detect various internal body disorders, injuries, and diseases. It deals with X-rays in producing images of organs and structures inside the human body. A computer creates photos from the data obtained from x-rays.
7. The radiation used in a CT scan is roughly equivalent to the background radiation we encounter every day and is well below safe recommendation levels.

How Does Computed Tomography Work?

A succession of x-ray pictures is in computed tomography scans taken from many different angles to produce cross-sectional views of the body. A computer then integrates the photos into a comprehensive map to create a detailed, three-dimensional image. It is a painless, non-invasive procedure that usually takes only a few minutes and is performed outpatient.

When Do You Need Computed Tomography?

A CT scan is to diagnose various conditions, such as:

• Tumours – Computed tomography can be used to detect or monitor the progress of certain types of cancer, including the brain, lung, and breast tumours.
• Heart disease – A CT scan looks at the blood vessels in your heart and determines if they are narrow or blocked, which could potentially lead to a heart attack.
• Bone fractures – Computed tomography can be used to examine broken bones, including those that may not show up on regular x-rays.
• Stroke – CT scans are used in emergency rooms to determine whether a person has had a stroke and what type of treatment is necessary.

However, some people should not have CT scans, and qualified physicians will advise patients of these risks. The patients at risk are pregnant women, allergic to iodine contrast material, and patients with kidney problems.