What is the purpose of a CAT scan?
A CAT scan or CT scan is an acronym for computerized axial tomography scan. The scan is used to diagnose medical conditions.IdentificationThe CAT scan machine is typically a large machine that contains a hole with a short tunnel through the middle. Patients lie flat on a table, which is placed in the tunnel.FunctionCAT scans work by taking digital images of the inside of the body from different angles. The pictures can reveal a remarkably detailed picture of a person’s body.Time FrameA CAT scan is painless. The procedure is noninvasive and is usually completed within minutes.ConsiderationsIn some cases, CAT scans are used in place of X-rays. The CAT scan can reveal more details and provide greater clarity of the bones, soft tissues, organs and blood vessels than an X-ray.SignificanceAccording to the website radiologyinfo.org, CAT scans can detect a variety of health conditions.
