![]() ![]() Like traditional x-rays, it produces multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body.Ī CT scan generates images that can be reformatted in multiple planes. You may need to change into a gown for the exam.Ĭomputed tomography, more commonly known as a CT or CAT scan, is a diagnostic medical imaging test. Leave jewelry at home and wear loose, comfortable clothing. These medications must be taken beginning 12-13 hours prior to your exam. If you have a known allergy to contrast material, your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction. You may be instructed not to eat or drink anything for a few hours beforehand. Tell your doctor if there is a possibility you are pregnant and discuss any recent illnesses, medical conditions, medications you are taking, and allergies. Because it can detect very small nodules in the lung, chest CT is especially effective for diagnosing lung cancer at its earliest, most curable stage. CT scanning is fast, painless, noninvasive, and accurate. If you live in the Bay area and need to have a CT scan, you can schedule an appointment at a BICRAD location near you.Computed tomography (CT) of the chest uses special x-ray equipment to examine abnormalities found with other imaging tests and to help diagnose the cause of unexplained cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, and other chest symptoms. The chances of the radiation from your CT causing cancer is very, very small, and the risk of CT scan radiation is well worth the risk since it may allow you to diagnose and treat a life-threatening illness that would’ve otherwise gone undetected. For example, the amount of radiation you are exposed to during a typical chest CT is comparable to the annual amount of natural radiation exposure from radon gas that the average american is exposed to within their home each year. Yes, you will be exposed to some radiation during a CT scan, but the amount is minimal. Will I be exposed to radiation during my CT scan? On average, the scan should take around 30 minutes, if no contrast dye is needed. How long does a CT scan last?ĬT scan duration depends on the area of the body being scanned as well as what your radiologist is looking to diagnose. As the table slowly moves through the scanner, the X-rays rotate around your body. During the test, you’ll lie on a table inside a large, doughnut-shaped CT machine. The computer stacks these scans one on top of the other to create a detailed picture of the affected area. A computer uses this information to create a cross-sectional image. How does a CT scan work?ĬT scans use X-ray beams to circle around one part of your body, providing a group of pictures at different angles. Although CT scans utilize X-ray technology, they show more detail than a routine X-ray would and are instrumental in diagnosing a variety of conditions. ![]() CT scans allow pictures of your organs, bones, and other tissues to be taken. What is a CT scan ?Ī computed tomography scan (also known as a CT or CAT scan) is an imaging method that allows doctors and radiologists to create detailed images of the inside of your body using a combination of X-rays and a computer. Below, we will discuss everything you need to know about your CT scan before, during, and after your appointment. Your doctor may have recommended you receive a CT scan for a number of different reasons including to detect joint issues, cancerous masses, locate a tumor, or to guide treatment methods such as biopsies and surgery. ![]()
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