Last Updated on March 28, 2025 by Analgesia team
CT Scan meaning
A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a noninvasive imaging procedure that uses X-rays to create pictures of the inside of the body. CT scans are used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and bone fractures.
How a CT Scan Works
- A narrow beam of X-rays rotates around the body
- The X-ray information is sent to a computer to create images
- The images can be viewed as a series of slices or as a 3D image
What is it used for
- Diagnosing tumors, infections, and blood clots
- Checking for bone fractures and other injuries
- Guiding procedures like surgery, biopsy, and radiation therapy
- Monitoring the progress of diseases like cancer and heart disease
What to expect when you want to have a CT scan
- You may be asked to drink a contrast agent to enhance the images
- You may be asked to remove metal objects
- You lie down on a table that slides into the scanner
- The scan may take a few minutes to over 30 minutes
Safety
- CT scans are generally safe, but there is a small risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast dye
- You are exposed to X-ray radiation, but the amount is usually equivalent to a few months to a few years of natural radiation