Computed tomography (CT) is a sophisticated diagnostic imaging tool that utilizes spiral x-rays and computers to generate cross-sectional images of the body including internal organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels. CT scans help diagnose a wide range of diseases from head-to-toe. The cross-sectional images generated can be reformatted in multiple planes, and can even generate 3D images which can be viewed on a computer monitor or transferred to electronic media. CT scanning is often the best method for detecting many different cancers since the images allow your doctor to confirm the presence of a tumor and determine its size and location. CT is fast, painless, noninvasive and accurate.
A CT Angiography (CTA) scan is a special type of CT exam. CTAs are used to examine the blood vessels, particularly in the brain, neck, chest, and abdomen. A contrast material is used to make the blood vessels show up clearly in the images. CTAs are very helpful in revealing aneurysms and examining the narrowing of the arteries.
There are various types of CT exams available, covering various sections of the body: Abdominal, Cranial, Lumbosacral Spine, Orbit, and Thoracic. These scans focus on body parts (arms, chest, legs, pelvis, and stomach), or internal organs (adrenal glands, bladder, heart, intestines, kidneys, liver, lungs, and pancreas). In addition, it can also be used to study blood vessels (which are harder to detect due to their small size and ease of “blending” in with their immediate surroundings), bones, the spinal cord, and other joints and extremities. The procedure’s main function is used to diagnose and inspect various infirmities in the body such as disease, infection, masses, and tumors (such as colon cancer or heart disease) without having to cut into the patient’s body. It also helps medical professionals during biopsy procedures, and is used as a guide for interventional diagnoses.
On the day of your exam, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid clothing with zippers and snaps as metal objects can affect the image. Depending on the part of the body that is being scanned, you may also be asked to remove hair pins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids and any dentures. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for one or more hours before the exam. Women should inform their doctor or x-ray tech if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
During a CT scan, the technologist positions you on the CT table and cushions are used to help keep you still and in the proper position during the scan. The table will move slowly into the CT scanner opening. Depending on the area of the body being examined, the increments of movement may be very small and almost undetectable, or large enough to feel the motion. To enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels, use of different contrast materials may be required. Depending on the type of examination, contrast material may be injected through an IV, swallowed or administered by enema.
Before administering the contrast material, you should inform the radiologist or technologist of the following:
A CT Scan is painless. Depending on the type of scan you are having, your preparation may differ. To enhance the visibility of body tissue or blood vessels, use of different contrast materials may be administered by:
You might feel:
CT and CTA is available at our Downey, West Covina, Ontario, and Pomona locations. All facilities are accredited in CT by the American College of Radiology (ACR).
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