CT examination, also known as computed tomography examination, is a medical imaging technology that uses X-rays to scan a certain part of the human body, and then uses computer processing to obtain a two-dimensional image of that part. It has the advantages of non-invasive, non-radiation, and non-radiation, so it has been widely used in clinical practice.
CT examination can clearly show the internal structure and morphology of the human body, which plays an important role in the diagnosis of diseases. It can detect many diseases, such as tumors, inflammation, infection, etc., and can provide information such as the size, location, shape, and density of lesions, which helps doctors make accurate judgments about the condition.
During a CT scan, the patient lies flat on a table and then X-rays are used to scan a part of the body.
The whole process is very fast, generally only takes a few minutes to ten minutes, and since the CT examination is non-invasive, the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort.
CT scans mainly include X-ray sources, detectors, data acquisition systems, and computer systems. An X-ray source emits X-rays to a part of the body, and a detector receives these rays and converts them into electrical signals. These electrical signals are processed by a data acquisition system and finally transmitted to a computer system.
During a CT scan, the X-ray source and detector rotate around a part of the body, and each rotation results in a set of data. This data is processed by a computer system to reconstruct an image of the site.
Because CT scans use tomography technology, we can get multi-layered images of a part of the body to diagnose diseases more accurately.
CT scans are able to accurately diagnose diseases, mainly due to their high resolution and contrast. CT scans have a higher resolution than traditional X-rays and can show the structure of the human body more clearly.
In addition, because CT scans are made using tomography technology, it is able to better show the density differences in tissues, which improves contrast. As a result, CT scans have a high degree of accuracy in diagnosing lesions such as tumors, inflammation, and fractures.
First, CT has a high diagnostic value for intracranial diseases. It can clearly show the structure of the brain parenchyma, ventricles and cisterns, and is of great value for the diagnosis of intracranial diseases such as cerebral infarction, brain tumor, and encephalitis.
Secondly, CT is also an important test for lung diseases. It can clearly display lung textures, nodules, masses and other lesions, which is of great significance for the diagnosis of lung cancer, pneumonia and other lung diseases.
In addition, CT can also be used to diagnose abdominal diseases, such as liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen and other organ lesions. CT can also be used to examine the skeletal system, such as fractures, bone tumors, etc.
CT scan, also known as computed tomography, is a commonly used medical imaging technique. Through X-rays and computer technology, CT can produce detailed images of the body's internal structures, which play an important role in diagnosing diseases.
First of all, we need to understand that there are certain risks associated with any medical examination, including CT examination. During a CT scan, the human body is exposed to a dose of X-rays, which are a radioactive substance.
This radiation can have an effect on human cells and may even lead to diseases such as genetic mutations, cancer, etc. However, this does not mean that CT tests should be avoided altogether. Doctors said that under the guidance of doctors, it is safe to choose CT scans reasonably.
Doctors point out that this is related to a number of factors, such as the radiation dose of the CT machine, the site of examination, and the physical condition of the individual. In general, a routine CT scan of the chest or head will cost about 5-10 millisieverts (MSV) and lower in the extremities. This dose is well below the threshold for causing cancer.
In addition, doctors will choose whether to perform CT examination according to the patient's specific situation and diagnostic needs, and try to avoid unnecessary exposure.
Nonetheless, for certain populations, such as pregnant women, children, the elderly, etc., doctors will be more cautious in assessing the risks and necessity of CT tests. This is because these populations are more sensitive to radiation and need more protection. First of all, pregnant women and women trying to conceive need special attention. A CT scan produces a dose of radiation that can negatively affect the fetus and egg. Therefore, during pregnancy and trying to conceive, if a CT scan is required, you should consult your doctor's professional advice and weigh the pros and cons.
Second, children also need to choose CT with care. Children are not yet fully mature, have a high sensitivity to radiation, and multiple CT scans over a long period of time may increase the risk of cancer. Therefore, children should fully consider the necessity when undergoing CT examinations and take appropriate protective measures.
In addition, older people need to be cautious about CT scanning. As people age, their physical functions gradually decline, and their tolerance to radiation is relatively low.
At the same time, older people are more likely to have multiple chronic diseases, and CT scans may mask the symptoms of some early lesions. Therefore, the necessity of CT examination should be fully assessed when performing CT in the elderly.
Finally, people with a history of allergies or asthma should also choose CT with caution. Some people may be allergic to the contrast agent or medication used in the CT test, which can lead to serious health problems and even life-threatening. Therefore, such people should inform their doctor of their allergy and asthma history before performing a CT scan so that the doctor can take appropriate precautions.