CT Scanning

Overview

A computed tomography (CT) scan uses x-rays to produce detailed pictures of structures inside the body. A CT scan is also called a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan.

A CT scanner directs a series of x-ray pulses through the body. Each x-ray pulse lasts only a fraction of a second and represents a “slice” of the organ or area being studied. The slices or pictures are recorded on a computer and can be saved for further study or printed out as photographs.

Dense tissues, such as bones, appear white in the pictures produced by a CT scan. Less dense tissues, such as brain tissue or muscles, appear in shades of gray. Air-filled spaces, such as in the bowel or lungs, appear black.

CT scanning can be used to obtain information about almost any body organ (such as the liver, pancreas , intestines , kidneys, adrenal glands , lungs, and heart), blood vessels, the abdominal cavity, bones, and the spinal cord.

During a CT scan, the area being studied is positioned inside a doughnut-shaped CT scanner. The scanner can tilt and the x-ray device within it can rotate to obtain the views needed.

A dye that contains iodine is often injected into the blood (intravenously) during a CT scan. The dye makes blood vessels and other structures or organs more visible on the CT scan pictures. The dye may be used to evaluate blood flow, detect tumors, and locate areas of inflammation. Intravenous contrast material is often used to obtain images of the chest and pelvis; an oral contrast material is given for an abdominal CT scan. Contrast material may be injected into the area around the spinal cord for spinal scans. CT images may be taken before and after injection of the contrast material.

• 64-Slice CT
  The SOMATOM Sensation 64-Slice CT system is the world’s fastest and most advanced 64-slice CT system.
• Abdomen/Pelvis CT
  
• Angiography CT
  Computer tomography angiography (CTA) is an examination that uses x-rays to visualize blood flow in arterial vessels throughout the body, from arteries serving the brain to those bringing blood to the lungs, kidneys, and the arms and legs.
• Cardiac SmartScore
  Cardiac SmartScore is a type of CT scan that detects areas of hardening in the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart.
• Chest CT
  
• Extremity/Joints CT
  
• Head/Brain CT
  
• Sinus CT
  
• Spine CT
  
• SilverHawk-A New Treatment for Peripheral Artery Disease
  Thanks to improved diagnostic techniques coupled with a remarkable new treatment called SilverHawk, we're in a much better position to help people recover from Peripheral Artery Disease.