What is a CT scan? Know the Purpose and Procedure
 |
| Illustration of the What is a CT scan? Know the Purpose and Procedure |
What is a CT scan? Know the Purpose and Procedure. Learn more about CT scans, from their purpose to the procedure. Learn about its benefits in identifying health problems and what to prepare for before taking the test.
Computed tomography, or computed tomography, is one of the most common and important medical diagnostic procedures in the medical world.
With the ability to provide a detailed picture of the structures in the body, CT scans help doctors diagnose various medical conditions more accurately.
In this article, we will detail what a CT scan is, its purpose, functions, procedures, and things to consider before undergoing this examination.
What is a CT scan?
Computed tomography is a medical imaging technique that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce images from different angles of the body.
These images are then processed by a computer to create a detailed three-dimensional picture of the organs and structures in the body.
Unlike conventional X-rays that only provide a two-dimensional picture, computed tomography is able to provide deeper and clearer information.
CT scans are often used to examine various parts of the body, such as the head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and limbs. This procedure is very useful in detecting various diseases such as tumors, infections, kidney stones, and injuries.
Purpose and functions of computed tomography
CT scans have various purposes and functions in the medical world, including:
1. Diagnosis of the disease
Computed tomography is used to diagnose a variety of diseases and conditions, such as tumors, infections, and vascular disorders.
2. Disease monitoring
Doctors use CT scans to monitor disease progression or response to treatment, as is the case with cancer.
3. Medical Procedure Planning
CT scans help in planning medical interventions such as surgery or radiation therapy by providing a detailed picture of the area to be treated.
4. Injury Detection
Computed tomography is very effective in detecting internal organ damage due to trauma, such as head injuries or broken bones.
Organs that can be examined by computed tomography
CT scans can be used to examine almost any part of the body, some of which are:
1. Computed tomography brain
It is used to detect strokes, brain tumors, and head injuries.
2. Lung computed tomography
Helps in the diagnosis of lung diseases such as lung cancer, infections, or pulmonary embolism.
3. Computational tomography of the abdominal cavity
Examining organs in the stomach, such as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and intestines, to detect tumors, infections, or kidney stones.
4. Cardiac computed tomography
It is used to monitor coronary arteries and detect coronary artery disease.
5. CT scan of the whole body
Sometimes this is done for a thorough examination, especially in the context of early detection of cancer.
Procedure computed tomography
The CT scan procedure is relatively simple and does not take much time. Here are the main stages of undergoing computed tomography:
1. Preparation
Patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure, especially if they will be given a contrast agent. Metal clothing and accessories must be removed.
2. Body position
The patient it is will be asked to lie down on the examination table. The position of the body will be adjusted to the part of the body to be examined.
3. Contrast
In some cases, contrast liquids are applied to clarify the image. This fluid can be injected or taken orally.
4. Scan
The examination table will be moved to a large circular computed tomography machine. The patient needs to lie still for a few minutes while the device takes the image.
5. Filmmaking process
The CT machine will rotate around the patient's body and take pictures from different angles. During this process, the patient may hear buzzing or may hear clicking sounds.
6. Done
After the scan is complete, the patient can immediately go home or return to normal activities unless specifically instructed by the doctor.
What to do before a CT scan
Before undergoing a CT scan, there are a few things to consider to ensure that the procedure goes smoothly:
1. Health information
Tell your doctor if you have allergies, are pregnant, or have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or kidney problems.
2. On an empty stomach
Follow your doctor's instructions about fasting before your procedure, especially if you will be using contrast dyes.
3. Remove accessories
Avoid wearing accessories or clothing that contain metal, as this can interfere with the results.
4. Prepare for contrast
If you are going to use a contrast dye, your doctor may give you specific instructions on how to take it or how to prepare for the injection.
Complications and side effects of computed tomography
Although a CT scan is a relatively safe procedure, there are some risks and side effects to be aware of:
1. Radiation exposure
Computed tomography involves higher radiation exposure compared to conventional X-rays. Although the risk of exposure to this radiation is considered small, the use of repeated or unnecessary CT scans should be avoided.
2. Allergic reactions
The use of contrast agents can cause allergic reactions in some people. These reactions can be mild, such as hives, or severe, such as difficulty breathing.
3. Kidney problems
In patients with impaired kidney function, the use of contrast can worsen the condition of the kidneys.
4. Discomfort
Some patients may experience discomfort or anxiety during the scan, especially if they have to lie still for long periods of time.
CT scans are a very useful diagnostic tool in the medical world, providing a detailed picture of the structures in the body that assist doctors in diagnosing and treating various diseases.
The procedure is relatively quick and painless, although there are some risks to be aware of. By following the doctor's instructions and understanding the procedure and its potential risks, patients can prepare well for a CT scan.
The use of computed tomography includes many important examinations, such as computed tomography of the head, computed tomography of the lungs, computed tomography of the abdomen, and even computed tomography of the whole body.
The cost of a CT scan varies depending on the part of the body being examined and the medical facility used. Before undergoing a CT scan, be sure to discuss the benefits and risks associated with this procedure with your doctor.
So ESMEDIA friends, that's what the article was about: What is a CT scan? Know the Purpose and Procedure
