CT Scan

A CT (Computed Tomography) scan is a medical procedure that involves moving a patient through a cylindrical machine that takes a series of X-rays which allows your doctor to see inside the body.  The scanner rotates to take specialized X-rays called “slices” of the patient’s body that provide clear images of their internal anatomy. CT scans are used for a variety of different reasons, such as diagnosing injury and disease, planning future medical procedures, or monitoring preexisting treatments and illnesses. CT scans often focus on a certain region of the body; usually the head, chest, or abdomen and pelvis regions due to the number of vital organs located in those areas, but patients can receive scans on any part of their body. Scans can also combine different areas or scan the patient’s entire body depending on the location of the sickness or injury. CT scans are performed with or without contrast, which is a liquid used to improve the clarity of X-rays produced by CT scans. Contrast can be administered through an IV or orally that shows up on the scanner and outlines tissues and organs more clearly on the X-ray image.