CT Scan for patients

A computed tomography scan, also known as Multi-detector (MDCT), CT or CAT scan, uses a series of rotating X-ray beams and multiple detectors to obtain a 3 dimensional image volume of the body.

Scan Shows

Common uses of CT Scan

• plaque in artery
• tumor in pancreas
• pulmonary embolus
• mets in abdomen

Safety:

Unlike an MRI, CT is not affected by ferromagnetic materials. However, it can be utilised when patients have pacemakers or other metal inside their body. It is also a much faster scan (a few seconds compared to a few minutes) compared to MRI, thereby reducing any artefacts from motion.

Depending on the type of CT, contrast media is sometimes used to enhance structures like blood vessels and bowel. Intravenous contrast is usually administered through an arm vein via a cannula inserted before the scan. Oral contrast is given as a drink before the scan, while rectal contrast is occasionally introduced as an enema for a pelvic CT scan.