This article will elaborate on the CT scan, its purpose, procedure, and types and discuss the difference between CT, MRI and PET scans.
What is a CT Scan?
CT is the short form of computed tomography scan. It is also called a CAT scan (Computed Axial Tomography) and is a non-invasive painless procedure that produces clear images by using X-ray techniques. In this procedure, X-rays are used with computer technology to produce clear images of the areas to be scanned. It uses the computer to create cross-sectional images also called slices of the bones, tissues, blood vessels, organs or scanning areas. The CT procedure scan produces more clear and detailed images than the simple X-rays do. CT scans are also used to plan medical, surgical or radiation treatments.
CT Scan is Used For?
CT scan is used to detect the various abnormalities and disorders present in the body by using X-rays and computer technology. This scan can detect:
- To diagnose the bone fractures of the body.
- To diagnose the body muscle injuries in the body.
- To diagnose the blood vessel disorders.
- To diagnose the organ abnormalities or disorders.
- To diagnose the heart diseases.
- Types of cancers and tumours.
- To detect and diagnose bowel syndromes like appendicitis, diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease etc.
- To diagnose the kidney stones.
- To diagnose the brain injuries or slits.
- To diagnose spinal cord abnormalities.
- To guide the procedures like biopsy, surgery or radiation therapy.
- To keep a check on the progress of cancers.
- To help diagnose how well certain treatments are working.
CT Scan Procedure?
CT scan is being performed in a CT scanner, which is a doughnut-shaped machine. The patient will be made to lie on the bed and the bed slides into the scanner for the scanning. Patients need to limit their movement, remain still and hold their breath for short periods like 15 to 20 seconds to get more clear and detailed images. The scanner takes pictures of the area and the bed moves back out of the scanner. The normal scan takes about 10-15 minutes but if taking contrast it may take more time.
CT Scan With Contrast
In some CT scans, healthcare professionals can suggest a contrast CT scan. Contrast is the special dye that makes the images bright and makes the scanned areas more visible and better. Contrast material can be given through various methods:
- Through mouth: To scan the esophagus or stomach, the patient may need to swallow a liquid contrast material. The drink is not tasty and can feel uncomfortable.
- Though Shot: This is also called injection, in which contrast is given through intravenously (IV). The patient will feel a metallic taste in the mouth and warmth after the contrast.
- Through enema: In this method, contrast is put in the rectum to show up the intestines. The procedure can make the feel patient bloated.
What to Do Before Going for a CT Scan?
Before going for a CT scan, patients need to take care of these points in advance.
- Take the appointment for the CT scan before coming for the scan.
- Do not eat for at least 4 hours before the scan.
- Drink only clear liquids like water and juice before 2 hours of scan.
- Remove all the jewellery, metals or other items from the body. Your healthcare provider will provide you with a gown to wear.
If the patient is going for a contrast CT scan, then the patient needs to provide the extra information like:
Blood test: A blood test will ensure that the contrast will be safe to consume.
Diet: You will be asked to consume only certain food types and drinks before the scan and what to avoid.
Medication: Inform the healthcare provider about the medications the patient is taking, some medicines can have allergic effects with the contrast.
What Are the Different Types of CT Scans?
There are different types of CT scans based on the area and organ of the body to be scanned. Different types of CT scans include:
- CT scan head. (Book Now)
- CT scan of the abdomen. (Book Now)
- CT scan of the pelvis. (Book Now)
- CT scan angiography. (Book Now)
- CT scan of lumbar spine. (Book Now)
- CT scan coronary angiography. (Book Now)
- CT scan neck. (Book Now)
- CT scan virtual colonoscopy. (Book Now)
- CT scan orbit. (Book Now)
- CT scan bran. (Book Now)
- CT scan of a kidney. (Book Now)
- CT scan chest. (Book Now)
- CT scan sinus. (Book Now)
Difference Between CT, MRI and PET Scan
CT scan uses the X-ray with computer technology to create clear and detailed pictures of the body parts or the areas to be examined for CT scan. The scan images are more detailed and clear than an X-ray scan alone. In this scan, patients can be suggested to take the contrast or not depending on the need.
MRI scan uses powerful magnetic and radio waves to create the images for the diagnosis purpose. The scan can be used with contrast or without contrast. The scan is more expensive and time-consuming than a CT scan but does not expose the patient to radiation.
PET scan is a more sensitive type of scan as it uses a radioactive tracer for the detection of abnormalities in the body. The scan captures the metabolic activity of the cells and can detect the cancer earlier than any other scan like CT or MRI can do.
Where is the Best CT Scan Centre in Delhi?
There are different CT scan centres in and around Delhi. You can choose the centre by checking government accreditations, latest machinery, technical staff and previous experience in the healthcare field or you can choose Ganesh Diagnostic for the scan. Ganesh Diagnostic is one of the most reputed and prestigious Diagnostic centres that provides a 24x7x365-day facility. The quality is backed by NABH and NABL accreditations. The centre provides free blood sample collection at home for different tests, Get tested with the best diagnostic centre. Grab the opportunity of available discounts and book an appointment.
Conclusion
CT scan is a computed tomography scan used to detect and diagnose different abnormalities in the body. This scan uses the X-ray with computer technology to create clear and detailed images of the area. There are different types of CT scans based on the area of scanning like the abdomen, heart, kidney, head etc. Patients need to choose the CT scan centre only after checking the Government accreditations, technical staff and previous expertise in the healthcare field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What does a CT scan mean?
CT scan is a computed tomography Imaging non-invasive medical diagnostic tool for the detection of disorders and abnormalities in the body.
What are the different types of CT scans?
Different types of CT scans include the head, abdomen, pelvis, brain, heart, lumbar etc.
What do CT scans show?
CT scans show the abnormalities or the disorders of the body parts for which it is done.
What is the difference between a CT scan and a PET scan?
CT scan uses X-ray radiation with computed tomography while PET scans use radioactive tracers for the detection of abnormalities.
Which scan is better for disease diagnosis?
CT scan is better as compared to X-ray scans for disease diagnosis.
When to go for a CT scan?
Patients should not avoid any symptoms related to abnormalities or disorders. Patients should go for CT screening to avoid any delay in diagnosis and treatment. (Click for screening)
What are the risks associated with CT scans?
There are no risks associated with the CT scan but frequent exposure to X-rays may increase the chances of cancers in the patient.
How long does a CT scan take?
A normal CT scan can take 15 to 20 minutes. However, the contrast CT scans can take up to 75 to 90 minutes.
Is the CT scan painful?
CT scan is a painless non-invasive procedure, but some patients may feel uncomfortable if they have claustrophobia (fear of closed spaces).
What is the cost of a CT scan?
Cost depends on the area and the healthcare facility provider. You can choose Ganesh Diagnostic for discounts and the best facility or call at 011-47-444-444 / 011-47-333-333 for price confirmation. (Book Now)
Is CT good for scanning?
CT scan is better than X-ray scan as it gives more detailed images of the abnormalities.
What are the side effects of CT scans?
Limited exposure to CT X-rays has no side effects.
How to find a CT scanning centre nearby?
You can type CT scan near me in Google search for the nearest centres available or click here for consultation.
