Computed tomography

Computed Tomography (often abbreviated as CT) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than standard X-rays.

History

The development of CT started in the late 1960s with the work of Godfrey Hounsfield at the British company Electric and Musical Industries Ltd (EMI). The first clinical CT scanners were installed between 1974 and 1976. The original systems were dedicated to head imaging only, but "whole body" systems with larger patient openings became available in 1976.

Procedure

In a CT scan, the patient lies on a table and the table moves slowly into the large, circular opening of the scanning machine. While the patient is inside the scanner, the machine's X-ray beam rotates around the patient. Small detectors inside the scanner measure the amount of X-rays that make it through the part of the body being studied.

Uses

CT scans are used to study all parts of your body, such as the chest, belly, pelvis, or an arm or leg. They can take pictures of body organs, such as the liver, pancreas, intestines, kidneys, bladder, adrenal glands, lungs, and heart. It also can study blood vessels, bones, and the spinal cord.

Risks

The amount of radiation a person receives during a CT scan is minimal. In adults, the risk of developing cancer from a CT scan is estimated to be 0.05%. In children, the risk is estimated to be higher, at 0.1%.

See Also

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging
• Ultrasound
• X-ray

References

Computed tomography Resources
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