CT Scan (Computed Tomography)

What is a CT Scanner?

A Computerized Tomography (CT) scanner is a special kind of X-ray machine. It sends several beams of X-Rays simultaneously from different angles to make detailed study of all parts of the body.

How does a CT Scanner work?

A CT Scanner uses a series of X-ray beams to build up images of the body in slices. The CT Scanner emits a succession of narrow beams of radiation as it moves through an arc. The X-ray detector within a CT Scanner can see hundreds of different levels of density within the organs of the body including the tissues.

A computer uses this information to work out the relative density of the tissues examined and finally processes the results displaying them as a two dimensional picture on a monitor.

CT-Scan in Medical Treatments

CT Scans are far more detailed than ordinary X-Rays. A CT Scan can study all parts of the body and can look for problems of the arms or legs, including the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle, or foot.

What are the Risks of CT-Scans?

Doctors do not generally recommend CT Scans without a good medical reason as there is far more X-ray exposure than is involved in ordinary X-rays. Pregnant women should not have a CT Scan as there is a small risk that X-rays may cause abnormality to the unborn child.

Nursing mothers should wait for 24 hours after a scan using a contrast dye before resuming breastfeeding.

The contrast dye used in CT Scans often contains iodine, which can cause allergic reaction in some patients.

Also, the dye may cause some kidney damage to people who already have kidney problems.