Computerized Tomography is said as CT scan. It has been formerly referred to as Computerized Axial Tomography [CAT] scan, is an X'rey procedure that combines many X-Ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross sectional views, and if needed three dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. CT is mostly known as its abbreviated names, CT scan or CAT scan. Used to define both normal and abnormal structures in the body or to assist in procedures by helping to accurately guide the placement of instruments or treatments. A large daunt-Shaped X-ray machine takes x-ray images at many different angles of the body. These images are processed by a computer to produce cross sectional images of the body. In each of these pictures, the body is seen as a slice of x-ray of the body which is recorded on a film. This recorded image is called a TOMOGRAM.
Imagine the body as a loaf bread and you're looking at one end of the loaf. As you remove each slice of bread you can see the entire surface of that slice from the crust to the center. The body is seen on CT scan slices in similar fashion from the skin to the central part of the body being examined. When these levels are further added together; a three dimensional picture of the organ structure cab be seen.
A CT scan is a very low risk procedure. The most common problem is an adverse reaction to intravenous contrast material, usually an iodine based liquid injected into the vein, which makes many organs and structures, such as blood vessels and kidneys much more visible on CT scan. There may be resulting itching a rash hives, or a feeling of warmth throughout the body. There are usually self limiting reactions that will go away rather quickly. If needed antihistamines can be given to help relieve these symptoms. A more serious allergic reaction to intravenous contrast is called an anaphylactic reaction. When this occurs the patient may experience severe hive or extreme difficulty in breathing. This reaction is quiet rare, but is potentially life threatening if not treated
Toxically to the kidneys which can result in kidney failure is an extremely rare complication of intravenous contrast material used in CT scans. People with Diabetics, dehydrated individuals, or patients who have already impaired kidney function are most prone to this reaction. Newer intravenous contrast agents has been developed which have nearly eliminated this complication.
The amount of radiation a person receives during CT scan is minimal. In men and not-pregnant women it has not been shown to produce any adverse effects. If a women is pregnant, there may be a potential risk to the fetus, especially in the first trimester of the pregnancy. If woman is pregnant she should inform her doctor of her condition and discuss other potential method of imaging, such as ultrasound, which are not harmful to the fetus.
