CT SCAN COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY SCAN A computerized tomography

CT SCAN (COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY SCAN)

� A computerized tomography (CT) scan combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles around your body and uses computer processing to create cross-sectional images (slices) of the bones, blood vessels and soft tissues inside your body. CT scan images provide more-detailed information than plain Xrays do.

� A CT scan has many uses, but it's particularly well-suited to quickly examine people who may have internal injuries from car accidents or other types of trauma. A CT scan be used to visualize nearly all parts of the body and is used to diagnose disease or injury as well as to plan medical, surgical or radiation treatment.

USE FOR… � � � � Diagnose muscle and bone disorders, such as bone tumors and fractures Pinpoint the location of a tumor, infection or blood clot Guide procedures such as surgery, biopsy and radiation therapy Detect and monitor diseases and conditions such as cancer, heart disease, lung nodules and liver masses Monitor the effectiveness of certain treatments, such as cancer treatment Detect internal injuries and internal bleeding Quick and pain less

RISKS � � � Small increased risk of cancer in future from exposure to ionized radiation. Harm to unborn babies uses higher doses of radiation , so the risks are in general greater than other imaging types.