Even though it is a sensitive topic, discussing medical terms and learning the science behind it is something that everyone should try. When someone is diagnosed with a critical illness, they tend to dive fully into the multitude of tests and processes with the hope of finding a cure. Computed Tomography is one such test.
Once the doctor orders a CT scan, you will make haste to the premises without second thoughts. Though not a wrong move, you must also try to know the science behind the tests to understand your illness better with the help of resources like Inside Radiology.
What Is a Computed Tomography Scan?
One way or another, you would have by now come across medical terms like CT scan, CAT scan, and helical or spiral CT. CT scan, also known as computed Tomography, is a type of specialised X-Ray test. The scan uses an X-Ray to create detailed pictures of bones, tissues, and organs.
A patient prescribed to take a CT scan is made to lie on the table, which moves through a scanning ring. The data which is collected can be developed into three-dimensional images. The doctors will later peruse the photos to check any abnormalities in the bone or soft tissues.
The difference between Computed Tomography scans and MRI scans is, in the case of MRI, it uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to develop the pictures. CT scans can help the doctor to diagnose cancer and also shows the tumour’s size and shape. It is considered an outpatient procedure most of the time and the process itself is painless and lasts for about ten to thirty minutes.
How Do CT Scans Detect Critical Illnesses?
A computed tomography scan takes images of the musculoskeletal system. In the human body, ligaments, muscles, bones, and joints make up the musculoskeletal system. Despite living a healthy lifestyle, you may at the time fall sick. When you are ill or diagnosed with any disorder, the musculoskeletal system may get injured or affected.
For instance, some injuries can cause fractures that directly affect the bones, and other issues like tendinitis affect soft tissues and muscles.
Computed Tomography scan technology has come a long way in identifying different critical illnesses. According to resources from Inside Radiology, CT scans helps identify the following:
- It helps with biopsies.
- It helps detect abnormalities like abscesses, tumours, etc.
- Before moving on to radiotherapy, CT scans help pinpoint where the tumour is.
What Does CT Scans Show?
CT scans are, in a way, precisely like x-ray tests. While x-ray uses a wide beam of radiation from one angle to scan, the CTs use a thin beam shot from different angles to make the picture.
The received data is used to create a B&W picture that shows a cross-section of that particular part of the body. As these images can show even the location, size, and shape of a tumour, the doctors find it a resourceful material and use it to identify and diagnose all types of critical illnesses.
Did you know that, on average, more than 70 million CT scans are being performed every year? With the developments in technology, CT scans have become an essential part of the medical processes, especially in detecting critical illnesses.