5 Facts About CT Scan

A CT scan provides physicians with a comprehensive picture of your body, enabling them to plan and track treatment as well as diagnose a variety of illnesses. Get ready for your test by learning these five important facts about CT scans. Additionally, discuss scheduling your CT scan at UVA Radiology and Medical Imaging with your healthcare practitioner.

1. A CT Scan Takes Images in Slices

Modern medical imaging techniques like CT scans provide doctors with a comprehensive picture of your body. Like x-rays, CT scans produce a collection of images from a variety of perspectives using ionizing radiation. When combined, these pictures resemble “slices” that create a single, incredibly detailed image.

CT scans can be used to detect internal bleeding following trauma or to identify the location of a malignancy. CTs are used by doctors to monitor illnesses and treatments, as well as to plan surgeries and other medical operations.

CT scan is an acronym for computed tomography. The term “computerized” refers to the fact that a computer controls the scan. The Greek word “tomos,” which meaning “slice” or “section,” is where the name “tomography” originates.

2. The scanner resembles a big ring or doughnut.

The internal components of the CT machine will begin to rotate around you once you’re in position, but you won’t be able to see this because of the equipment’s casing. However, as the internal components revolve around you, you will hear deafening whirring sounds. Depending on the body part being scanned, the CT machine may also move over you while it scans.

3. You must remain motionless throughout the scan.

You must remain as still as possible during a CT scan since any movement could result in a hazy image. The image might be impacted by anything as simple as breathing. The technologist may ask you to hold your breath for a short period of time, depending on what the scan is looking on.

The duration of your scan could range from a few minutes to an hour. If you feel uncomfortable or anxious throughout the treatment, you can also communicate with the radiologic technician via an intercom system.

4. Some CTs Require the Use of Contrast Dye

In some circumstances, you might need to ingest medical contrast dye before having a CT scan. Depending on the operation, you may be requested to take contrast either intravenously or orally. Because the contrast must have time to pass through your body, this will lengthen the operation.

5. CT Scans Use Radiation, Like Traditional X-Rays

Radiation is used in CT scans, and high enough exposures can increase a patient’s risk of developing cancer. However, be aware that there is extremely little chance of getting cancer from a CT scan.

Keep in mind that your doctor ordered the test because they believe the benefits of the examination outweigh the radiation risk. Your doctor can use the information from a CT scan to make critical diagnoses and treatment strategies. In the end, a CT scan could yield important health information.

Inquire about alternate imaging tests that could be performed in place of a CT scan if radiation exposure is a concern. Additionally, consult your physician to ensure that your lifetime radiation exposure falls within the acceptable range. You can also read our radiation page or use this online calculator to calculate your lifetime radiation risk.