CT scanning is a medical process that uses accurate x-rays in medical imaging of organs inside the body. The process is fast, accurate and can detect internal injuries, diseases, and hemorrhage. CT scanning involves producing images in different planes including 3-D, which can then be observed on a computer screen, in print or copied to a DVD. This method is more favorable than traditional x-rays because it is more detailed and can be easily manipulated by a physician. CT scanning provides excellent details of internal body organs, bones, soft body tissues, and blood vessels. CT scans can diagnose conditions like cancer, heart conditions, infectious diseases, appendicitis, trauma, and musculoskeletal malfunctions. Also, the scans can be used to examine the pelvis, chest, and abdomen by obtaining accurate, cross-sectional images of these regions. CT scanning is also used in the observation of patients with internal injuries and tumors.
Procedure
CT scan procedures are very much similar to traditional x-ray imaging. During CT scanning, the patient is asked to lie down on their back or front on the examination table. The equipment then moves over the body to get multiple views of areas of interest. Various body parts absorb the radiation at different rates, hence, allowing these parts to be differentiated from one another during CT scan interpretation. CT scans utilize multiple x-ray beams and electronic x-ray detectors that surround a patient to rationalize the quantity of radiation being absorbed by the body. The examination table may be made to move during the procedure so that the beams follow a winding trail.
A specialized computer program then processes data obtained from a CT scan to generate two-dimensional cross-sectional photographs of the human body. Slices attained from the scan are then assembled by a special computer software to provide an accurate multidimensional image of internal body parts. Advanced scanners such as multi-detector CT scans offer excellent and precise details of many slices. These scanners have the ability to examine numerous body parts within a few seconds. This short duration is beneficial for young children, elderly patients, and patients with severe diseases. The procedure uses contrast material to give a clear visibility of the body part being examined.
Patient Instructions
Before a patient undergoes CT scanning, he/she is informed of the process and asked to wear comfortable clothing like a gown. Also, a patient is advised not to wear any jewelry or any eyewear. Some procedures like abdominal and pelvic scanning require a patient to drink 6-8 glasses of water 30 minutes before the scan to highlight the bowel on x-ray photos. After the scan, the patient may be allowed to go home as soon as possible and resume regular chores. However, for patients who have been administered contrast liquid, they are required to increase fluid intake over the next few days. Additionally, for diabetic patients, they are advised to halt the intake of metformin for approximately two days.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CT scanning has been a true game-changer in the field of medical imaging. Compared to traditional x-rays, CT scans are more comprehensive and provide detailed information regarding a medical condition. Moreover, a physician can easily manipulate data displayed on a CT scan without exposing the patient to additional radiation. Besides, certain areas can either be selectively enhanced or removed from a CT scan without much hustle. The future will see significant improvements in spatial resolution, speed, and dose efficiency to make CT scanning more effective.
References
Canon, C. L. (2010). Radiology. New York: McGraw-Hill Medical.
Goldman, L. W. (2007). Principles of CT and CT Technology. Journal of Nuclear Medicine Technology, 35(3), 115-128.
