CT-Scan

CT-scan or CAT scan is an abbreviation for computerized axial tomography. It is a diagnostic tool that can provide cross sectional images of organs of the body. CT-scans provide high resolution images that are not possible with x-rays. With the help of CT-scans, images of slices of organs can be obtained. CT-scans are generally performed for the head, lungs, pelvis, abdomen, the extremities, and for angiography. A coronary CT angiography is done for patients who are suspected to have coronary artery diseases. CT pulmonary angiography is performed for those who are suspected of having pulmonary embolism. As against other imaging techniques used in diagnostics like x-rays, CT-scan offers numerous advantages. Since it can offer slice images of any organ, the issue of superimposition is eliminated. Due to its high contrast resolution, the differences in the tissues can be visualized to a good degree. The scope to view images in different planes makes it a better diagnostic tool. However, since it is a procedure that is done with medium to high radiation, there is risk of a person being exposed to radiation during the procedure. Added to that, contrast agents injected to patients undergoing CT-scans can also cause reactions. These can be mild, which include nausea, vomiting, and other allergic reactions. Since these contrast agents have to be flushed out of the body via the urinary system, there is a risk of nephropathy. This condition is called contrast-induced nephropathy. To eliminate this condition, a patient undergoing a contrast CT-scan is asked to undergo a serum creatinine test prior to the CT-scan. This is especially advised for people with diabetes.