What is a CT Scan?

                                                                                         

A CT scan, or CAT scan, is a type of x-ray that takes cross-sectional images of the body. CT stands for Computed Tomography, which refers to the process of combining x-ray technology with computers to produce images that look like “slices” of the body. During CT scans a large series of two dimensional x-rays are taken of the body and fed into a computer, which generates three-dimensional representations of internal structures of the body.

CT imaging is an effective diagnostic tool because it helps physicians distinguish between bone, fat, and fluid in the body, aiding in the diagnosis of everything from tumors to small fractures.

History of Computed Tomography

Tomography was first developed in the early 1900s by an Italian radiologist whose goal was to capture an image of a cross-sectional slice of the body on x-ray film. The tomography method was based on the principles of projective geometry, in practice this meant the x-ray tube and films moved in opposite directions but were synchronized to create a focused image on a single plane.

Tomography was considered one of the pillars of diagnostic radiology until the 1970s, when the development of computers and transverse axial scanning produced the first viable CT scan.

Diagnostic Applications

CT scans have been the imaging modality of choice since the late 1970s, replacing traditional x-rays and ultrasound as the gold standard for diagnosing a large number of diseases and medical conditions. Physicians are also embracing CT scans as a method of screening for a variety of conditions, including colon cancer; however, the use of CT scans for preventative screening is a controversial topic in the field of radiology due to the risk of radiation exposure.

Chest CT Scans – CT imaging can help physicians detect lung abnormalities to aid in the diagnosis of pneumonia, emphysems, fibrosis, lung cancer, pulmonary embolism, and aortic dissection.

CT Angiogram – CT scans are the preferred choice for obtaining images of the pulmonary arteries. This aids in the diagnosis of blood clots in the pulmonary arteries, which prevent blood from reaching the lungs.

Abdominal CT Scans – CT imaging of the abdomen and pelvis can be helpful when diagnosing conditions such as pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, aortic aneurysm, diverticulitis, and osteoporosis.

Extremeities – CT scans of the arms and legs are generally used to identify dislocations and fractures, particularly fractures near the joints.

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If you have any questions about CT scans or concerns about exposure to radiation, it is best to consult your Hawaii radiologist directly. Radiology associations also have helpful information about diagnostic imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRI scan.

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