CT, CAT, MRI\u2026 \u00a0The list of alphabetizations in the plethora of medical jargon could go on and on. \u00a0Those outside of the professional world most likely hear them most on TV medical dramas, but those scenes never really beg the viewer to question what the term actually means.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s important, though, if you\u2019re in a position with your health where you may need testing to understand what kinds of tests may be suggested by your doctors. \u00a0Or maybe you\u2019ve already been prescribed a CT scan, and you want a better understanding of what you\u2019re about to undergo. Before you show up for the scan, make sure you know what to expect.<\/p>\n
CT stands for computerized tomography scan<\/span><\/a>. \u00a0This specific medical imaging works to provide a very detailed image for medical professionals. \u00a0A series of x-ray images are taken from many different angles. \u00a0The computer then processes these pictures to create cross-sectional images of your bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues.<\/span><\/p>\n This process provides much more detailed diagnostic imaging than does the plain x-ray.<\/p>\n Because of their ability to create detailed computerized images of nearly all parts of the body, CT scans are used to not only diagnose but also to plan medical, surgical, or radiation treatment.<\/p>\n CT scans are used to detect:<\/strong><\/p>\n Doctors also use the medical imaging provided by CT scans to monitor the effectiveness of certain treatments and guide procedures like surgeries and biopsies.<\/p>\n In some cases, depending on where and how extensive the scan is, you may need to change into a hospital gown. \u00a0In cases where this is not necessary, it\u2019s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing.<\/p>\n Leave your jewelry and precious metal items at home! \u00a0Metal can interfere with the imaging process of the CT scan, and you\u2019ll be asked to remove them if you bring them. \u00a0To keep them safe, it\u2019s recommended to just leave them at home.<\/p>\n Your doctor will recommend this if necessary, but you may need to fast before the process.<\/p>\n Depending on the specific scan, you may have to intake some contrast material. \u00a0This is a sort of dye that makes the images of your veins and blood vessels more clear in diagnostic imaging. \u00a0It can be provided in one of three ways:<\/p>\n CT scanners are large, metal tubes. \u00a0You\u2019ll lie on a metal table that is motorized and will be moved into the scanner. \u00a0Depending on the location of the scan, you may be provided with straps, pillows, or a head cradle to help keep your body in place during the scan.<\/p>\n The detectors and the x-rays rotate around you in a tube, and they can<\/span> be loud, creating a buzzing and some clicking noises.<\/span><\/p>\n There\u2019s not a <\/span>difference<\/span><\/a> between CT scans and CAT scans; the names are interchangeable.<\/span><\/p>\nHow are CT Scans Used?<\/b><\/h3>\n
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How Can I Prepare for a CT Scan?<\/b><\/h3>\n
What is the CT Scan Actually Like?<\/b><\/h3>\n
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Other Facts and Important Information<\/b><\/h3>\n