What is a Computed Tomography (CT scan) exam?
A CT scan is carried out by using a special x-ray machine which produces an image of a cross-section, or slice of the body. The scanner consists of a “doughnut”-shaped structure, about 2 feet thick, through which you pass on a table. Computed Tomography or CT (also called CAT) scans show a slice, or cross-section, of the body. The image shows your organs and soft tissues more clearly than standard x-rays. Because the image is created by a computer, it can be enlarged to make it easier to read and interpret. CT scans use controlled amounts of x-ray beams of high-energy radiation that are passed through the body to create images. Please be aware that some CT scans require that the patient drink oral contrast and/or have an IV placed for intravenous contrast. You may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking (nothing by mouth) anything a certain number of hours before your exam. You will be asked to fill out a CT Pre-scan Questionnaire when you first arrive in the department. It is extr
Computed Tomography (otherwise known as CT or “CAT” scanning) combines advanced computers and rotating x-rays to create highly detailed cross sectional computer generated images of body parts and internal organs in order to detect different disease processes. The exam is fast, patient friendly and has the unique ability to detect and diagnose a wide variety of medical conditions and abnormalities. It is frequently used as the primary diagnostic tool for early detection of tumors, infection, inflammatory conditions, stroke, obstructions, trauma and kidney stones. At The Woodlands Open MRI & Imaging Centers, these examinations are performed by certified x-ray technologists, and every examination is directly supervised and interpreted by board certified specialists in diagnostic radiology. Why Is CT Performed? CT can provide detailed cross sectional images and diagnostic information for nearly every part of the body that cannot be provided by conventional x-ray studies: • Head: including
