Every year, there are over 75 million CT scans performed in the United States.
CT stands for computerized tomography.
A CT scan takes multiple x-ray images to create a three-dimensional image of your bones and tissues. This allows doctors to gain information about the inside of your body. They are also commonly known as CAT (computerized axial tomography) scans. It is possible to receive a CT scan of any part of your body. The process is very quick and painless.
A CT scanner is a donut-shaped tube with an x-ray that rotates around a patient.
The patient will lie on a special table inside the scanner. Beams and detectors measure the amount of radiation absorbed by your body, and this creates a series of images. The scanner takes pictures from different angles, which are similar to individual slices of your body. The CT computer will combine these images to create a detailed cross-sectional image.
Your healthcare provider might order a CT scan to determine the location of an abnormality.
CT scans are helpful for diagnosing muscle and bone disorders, monitoring the effectiveness of treatments, detecting internal injuries, and guiding surgical procedures. It is also one of the most accurate tools for examining tissue.
You might be wondering how you can prepare for your CT scan appointment.
Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions about how you can prepare for your scan. You should plan to take all of your regular medications unless otherwise instructed. Arrive early at the imaging center. Some CT scans require you to avoid eating or drinking four hours prior to your exam.
Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment.
You might be asked to change into a gown when you arrive. If so, we will give you a gown to wear and a place to put your belongings. Because metal objects interfere with the scan, you may be instructed to remove any metal objects such as zippers, jewelry, hearing aids, or removable piercings.
CT Imaging at Radiology Associates of Hartford
Radiology Associates of Hartford offers some of the most state-of-the-art CT imaging available! We have multiple locations to accommodate many patients. Please give our office a call today at 860-969-6400 to schedule your scan.
- Computed Tomography (CT) SCAN. Computed Tomography (CT) Scan | Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2021, August 8). Retrieved March 28, 2023, from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/computed-tomography-ct-scan
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2022, January 6). CT Scan. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved March 28, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/ct-scan/about/pac-20393675
