What is computed tomography (CT scan)? Applications of CT

CT scan is a high-quality imaging method for dissecting internal body structures with fast and accurate results. So what is a CT scan? What is the application of CT scan? Right now, Tnhelearning.edu.vn will help you answer the questions on the article below.

What is a computed tomography (CT) scan?

Computed tomography (CT) scan

CT scan , also known as CT-scanner , is a technique that uses many X-rays to shine on a certain part of the body in a cross-section , combined with computer processing to obtain two-dimensional images or three dimensions of the part just captured.

Indications and contraindications for CT scan

Subjects indicated for CT scan

• Patients with signs of trauma: If the patient is suspected of having signs of trauma, the doctor will immediately conduct a CT scan to accurately identify those injuries. Injuries can be anywhere on the body, but mainly in important locations such as: skull, rib cage, spine, …
• Cancer screening : When the doctor detects that the patient has a brain tumor or the patient is diagnosed with cancer of the lung, kidney, liver, etc. out treatment methods suitable to the patient’s condition when encountering a case of poor prognosis.
• Arterial disease screening: Diseases such as coronary arteries, cerebral arteries, .. are dangerous diseases and have a high risk of death. The prognosis and CT scan at this time is very necessary for early detection and appropriate treatment regimen.

Indications and contraindications for CT scan

Subjects contraindicated CT

• There are no absolute contraindications to CT scans.
• The patient is pregnant, especially in the first 3 months of pregnancy , during this period, fetal cells are not completely formed and are sensitive to X-rays. Therefore, if exposed to X-rays, it can cause fetal malformations. pediatric.

Advantages and disadvantages of computed tomography (CT)

Advantage

• The ability to resolve soft tissue images is higher than x-rays.
• The picture is clear , no overlapping images.
• Fast capture time, suitable for surveying mobile organs such as heart, liver, intestine, … and necessary in evaluating emergency diseases.
• Ideal for the investigation of bone diseases due to its high spatial resolution with bone.
• CT scan can be used for patients with contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) : those who have pacemakers, metal heart valves, hearing aids or have foreign bodies in the body.

Advantages and disadvantages of CT

Defect

• CT scans are difficult to detect injuries to cartilage , ligaments and spinal cord.
• Difficult to detect and differentiate for organs and lesions of the same attenuation.
• CT is more limited than MRI in detecting soft tissue lesions.
• It is difficult to detect small lesions.
• CT scans use X-rays, so they can cause radiation . However, the level of radiation exposure is limited to the permissible level, so the patient does not need to worry too much.

When is a computed tomography scan with contrast injection?

The contrast agent used in computed tomography is a solution containing iodine . When contrast material is injected into the body, the affected areas from the surrounding area will be easily distinguished by the lesions or the absorbing structures that will appear white on the CT screen. This will make the doctor’s diagnosis process more accurate and convenient.

When is a computed tomography scan with contrast injection?

All contrast agents contain iodine, so it is inevitable that some people who are allergic to iodine will have a bad reaction when used . When you encounter this situation, you should notify and contact your doctor for timely measures, they can give you steroids or allergy medicine to combat the side effects.

5. Computerized tomography (CT) procedure

Before CT

Before CT

Some parts of the CT scan will require contrast material , so you will be injected according to the doctor’s prescription. If contrast material is needed, your doctor will ask you to fast for 4-6 hours and a contrast liquid will be injected into your arm or rectum along with an enema.

Then, to get accurate results, you will be asked to change into hospital clothes, remove jewelry or metal accessories (both glasses and dentures) to conduct a CT scan.

During a CT scan

During a CT scan

The technician will ask you to lie on your back on the CT scanner and then they will go to the control room where you will be watched and observed by them through the intercom. You will be slowly brought into the machine by the system and operated by a technician.

The X-ray system will then rotate around you , creating images that are thin slices of your body from each rotation. However, you may hear clicking, humming, and humming noises during operation of the scanner.

After CT scan

After CT scan

The images will be sent to the doctor and the results will be read out after the CT scan is over . If any abnormalities or symptoms appear, the doctor will diagnose and give appropriate and timely treatment .

Time to get CT scan results

Time to get CT scan results

Takes about 20 minutes to 1 hour , the CT scan will end. Unusual signs such as blood clots, tumors, fractures, … in the image, the doctor will order further tests to review and conduct treatment depending on the disease you have.

Some related questions

Where is the CT scan?

Where is the CT scan?

CT scan sites are large hospitals that provide CT scan systems . You need to find out a reputable hospital and a qualified doctor to read the results and diagnose through images for accuracy.

Besides, modern equipment, techniques, and your own insurance are also one of the things you need to keep in mind when choosing a place to perform a CT scan.

How much does a CT scan cost?

How much does a CT scan cost?

CT scan prices range from about 900,000 – 5,000,000 VND for each scan depending on each hospital with different equipment, techniques and departments.

When should a CT scan be performed?

When should a CT scan be performed?

Subjects who need CT scan are those who are suspected of having cancer, bone and joint problems, heart disease, emphysema, internal damage, tumors, … to determine the location of tumors or blood clots. help with treatment and take pictures as prescribed by the doctor.

Above is information about what is computed tomography (CT scan)? Application of CT scan that Tnhelearning.edu.vn synthesizes. Hope it can be of help to you.

Source: Tam Anh General Hospital, Vinmec International General Hospital

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