CT (Computed Tomography) scanning is useful to get a very detailed 3-D image of certain parts of the body, such as soft tissues, the pelvis, blood vessels, the lungs, the brain, abdomen, and bones. Documented common reasons for a CT include:
- It is often the preferred method of diagnosing many cancers, such as liver, lung, and pancreatic cancers. The image allows a doctor to confirm the presence of a tumor. The tumor’s size can be measured, plus its exact location, as well as to determine how much the tumor has affected nearby tissue.
- A scan of the head can provide the doctor with important information about the brain – he/she may want to know whether there is any bleeding, swelling of the arteries, or tumors.
- A CT scan will tell the doctor whether the patient has a tumor in his/her abdomen, and whether any internal organs in that area are swollen or inflamed. It will reveal whether there are lacerations of the spleen, kidneys or liver.
- As a CT scan can detect abnormal tissue it is a useful device for planning areas for radiotherapy and biopsies.
- A CT scan can also provide valuable data on the patient’s vascular condition. Vascular refers to blood flow. Many vascular conditions can lead to stroke, kidney failure, and even death. It can help a doctor assess bone diseases, bone density, and the state of the patient’s spine.
- A CT scan can reveal vital data about injuries to the patient’s hands, feet and other skeletal structures – even small bones can be seen clearly, as well as their surrounding tissue.
Capitol Imaging Services performs CT exams at several of our affiliate locations. Our centers are accredited by the American College of Radiology, meeting or exceeding standards set for quality, technology, reporting and radiology expertise.
To learn more about CT, visit this link for a brief seven-minute overview as produced by the American College of Radiology.
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