More commonly known as CAT scanning, the painless and noninvasive CT scan greatly helps doctors diagnose medical conditions with speed and ease. Using specially developed x-ray machines, CT imaging produces a two-dimensional picture of the body which is far superior and more detailed to a regular x-ray image.

Internal organs, blood vessels, tissue and bones all appear together in the same image in clarity unmatched by regular x-ray formats. Dangerous diseases and conditions such as cancer, trauma and cardiovascular disease can be diagnosed much easier using a CT scan.

Procedure information
Following a spiral path, a CT scan’s x-rays rotate around the body measuring the amount of radiation being absorbed. A computer processes all this information and creates a two-dimensional cross section image on the monitor of a small slice of the body. The amount of data collected during a scan is massive, allowing doctors to look at the problem from a wider perspective. A contrast material can also be injected into the patient to provide greater clarification of a particular part of the body.

During the procedure, patients lie flat on a table which passes slowly through the scanner as it reads the body. Restraints are used to ensure the patient remain perfectly still. The CT scan can last between 5 and 30 minutes, depending on what results are being sought.

Recovery time
Most CT scans are painless and easy, though if you’re claustrophobic you may have some issues with the process. Contrast material injected into your body will feel like a warm flush, but causes no pain. Occasionally, a patient will have an allergic reaction to the contrast material, but this can be easily treated. The most common problem is that people have trouble lying still for such a long time. As soon as the CT scan is over, the patient can return home.