CT Scanning

CT scanning or Computing Tomography scanning is a special kind of X-ray machine in which several beams are sent simultaneously from different angles and allows more detailed images from within the body to be constructed, and these images are then interpreted by a doctor.

CT scans are far more detailed than ordinary X-rays; it was originally designed to take pictures of the brain. Now it is much more advanced and is used for taking pictures of virtually any part of the body. A CT scan can give the doctor a much clearer picture of the inside of the body than an ordinary X-ray.

A CT scan can be done on any section of the head or body. It can give clear pictures of bones. It also gives clear pictures of soft tissues which an ordinary X-ray test cannot show, such as muscles, organs, large blood vessels, the brain and nerves.

CT scan can also be done:

• To detect abnormalities in the body, such as tumours, abscesses, abnormal blood vessels, etc, when they are suspected by symptoms or other tests.
• To give a surgeon a clear picture of an area of your body before certain types of surgery.
• To pinpoint the exact site of tumours prior to radiotherapy.
• To help doctors find the right place to take tissue samples (biopsies).

The information from the two-dimensional computer images can be reconstructed to produce three-dimensional images by some modern CT scanners.

The scan is a non-invasive, painless medical procedure. It usually takes approximately 10 to 30 minutes to perform, depending on the part of the body that is being scanned, the number of pictures taken and the different angles required. You can return to your normal activities as soon as the scan is over. However, if you had a sedative for the scan, you will need someone to accompany you home. You will not be able to drive until the effect of the sedative wears off.