-ray computed tomography (CT) is a medical imaging method employing tomography created by computer processing.

[1] Digital geometry processing is used to generate a threedimensional image of the inside of an object from a large series of two-dimensional X-ray images taken around a single axis of rotation.[2] CT produces a volume of data that can be manipulated, through a process known as "windowing", in order to demonstrate various bodily structures based on their ability to block the X-ray beam. Although historically the images generated were in the axial or transverse plane, orthogonal to the long axis of the body, modern scanners allow this volume of data to be reformatted in various planes or even as volumetric (3D) representations of structures. Although most common in medicine, CT is also used in other fields, such as nondestructive materials testing. Another example is archaeological uses such as imaging the contents of sarcophagi. Usage of CT has increased dramatically over the last two decades in many countries.[3] An estimated 72 million scans were performed in the United States in 2007.[4] It is estimated that 0.4% of current cancers in the United States are due to CTs performed in the past and that this may increase to as high as 1.5-2% with 2007 rates of CT usage;[5] however, this estimate is disputed.[6]

What is a CT scan?
A computerized axial tomography scan is an x-ray procedure that combines many x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views and, if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. Computerized axial tomography is more commonly known by its abbreviated names, CT scan or CAT scan. A CT scan is used to define normal and abnormal structures in the body and/or assist in procedures by helping to accurately guide the placement of instruments or treatments.

A large donut-shaped x-ray machine takes x-ray images at many different angles around the body. These images are processed by a computer to produce cross-sectional pictures of the body. In each of these pictures the body is seen as an x-ray "slice" of the body, which is recorded on a film. This recorded image is called a tomogram. "Computerized Axial Tomography" refers to the recorded tomogram "sections" at different levels of the body. Imagine the body as a loaf of bread and you are looking at one end of the loaf. As you remove each slice of bread, you can see the entire surface of that slice from the crust to the center. The body is seen on CT scan slices in a similar fashion from the skin to the central part of the body being examined. When these levels are further "added" together, a three-dimensional picture of an organ or abnormal body structure can be obtained

Why are CT scans performed?

CT scans are performed to analyze the internal structures of various parts of the body. This includes the head, where traumatic injuries, (such as blood clots or skull fractures), tumors, and infections can be identified. In the spine, the bony structure of the vertebrae can be accurately defined, as can the anatomy of the intervertebral discs and spinal cord. In fact, CT scan methods can be used to accurately measure the density of bone in evaluatingosteoporosis. Occasionally, contrast material (an x-ray dye) is placed into the spinal fluid to further enhance the scan and the various structural relationships of the spine, the spinal cord, and its nerves. Contrast material is also often administered intravenously or through other routes prior to obtaining a CT scan (see below). CT scans are also used in the chest to identify tumors, cysts, or infections that may be suspected on a chest x-ray. CT scans of the abdomen are extremely helpful in defining body organ anatomy, including visualizing the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, aorta, kidneys, uterus, and ovaries. CT scans in this area are used to verify the presence or absence of tumors, infection, abnormal anatomy, or changes of the body from trauma. The technique is painless and can provide extremely accurate images of body structures in addition to guiding the radiologist in performing certain procedures, such as biopsies of suspected cancers, removal of internal body fluids for various tests, and the draining of abscesses which are deep in the body. Many of these procedures are minimally invasive and have markedly decreased the need to perform surgery to accomplish the same goal.

Are there risks in obtaining a CT scan?

A CT scan is a very low-risk procedure. The most common problem is an adverse reaction to intravenous contrast material. Intravenous contrast is usually an iodine-based liquid given in the vein,

which makes many organs and structures, such as the kidneys and blood vessels much more visible on the CT scan. There may be resulting itching, a rash, hives, or a feeling of warmth throughout the body. These are usually self-limiting reactions that go away rather quickly. If needed, antihistamines can be given to help relieve the symptoms. A more serious allergic reaction to intravenous contrast is called an anaphylactic reaction

How does a patient prepare for CT scanning, and how is it performed?

In preparation for a CT scan, patients are often asked to avoid food, especially when contrast material is to be used. Contrast material may be injected intravenously, or administered by mouth or by an enema in order to increase the distinction between various organs or areas of the body. Therefore, fluids and food may be restricted for several hours prior to the examination. If the patient has a history of allergy to contrast material (such as iodine), the requesting physician and radiology staff should be notified. All metallic materials and certain clothing around the body are removed because they can interfere with the clarity of the images. Patients are placed on a movable table, and the table is slipped into the center of a large donutshaped machine which takes the x-ray images around the body. The actual procedure can take from a half an hour to an hour and a half. If specific tests, biopsies, or intervention are performed by the radiologist during CT scanning, additional time and monitoring may be required. It is important during the CT scan procedure that the patient minimize any body movement by remaining as still and quiet as is possible. This significantly increases the clarity of the x-ray images. The CT scan technologist tells the patient when to breathe or hold his/her breath during scans of the chest and abdomen. If any problems are experienced during the CT scan, the technologist should be informed immediately. The technologist directly watches the patient through an observation window during the procedure, and there is an intercom system in the room for added patient safety. CT scans have vastly improved the ability of doctors to diagnose many diseases earlier in their course and with much less risk than previous methods. Further refinements in CT scan technology continue to evolve which promise even better picture quality and patient safety. Newer CT scans called "spiral" or "helical" CT scans can provide more rapid and accurate visualization of internal organs. For example, many trauma centers are using these scans to more rapidly diagnose internal injuries after serious body trauma. High resolution CT scans (HRCT) are used to accurately assess the lungs for inflammation and scarring.

CT Scan At A Glance
CT scanning adds x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views of anatomy. CT scanning can identify normal and abnormal structures and be used to guide procedures. CT scanning is painless. Iodine-containing contrast material is sometimes used in CT scanning. Patients with a history of allergy to iodine or contrast materials should notify their physicians and radiology staff.

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Basic Working Principle Of CT Scan

It is as simple as passing X-rays through the patient and obtaining information with a detector on the other side. The X-ray source and the detector are interconnected and rotated around the patient during scanning period. Digital computers then assemble the data that is obtained and integrate it to provide a cross sectional image (tomogram) that is displayed on a computer screen. The image can be photographed or stored for later retrieval and use as the case may be. X-rays are electromagnetic waves. The main reason why X-rays is used in diagnosis is because all substances and tissues differ in their ability to absorb X-rays. Some substances are more permeable to X-rays while some others impermeable. Owing to this difference, different tissues seem different when the X-ray film is developed. Dense tissues such as the bones appear white on a CT film while the soft tissues such as the brain or kidney appear gray. The cavities filled with air such as the lungs appear black.

CT Scan - What Does The Equipment Look Like

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Most of the patients get nervous when they see a CT machine because it seems very huge and massive. However, there is no reason for worry because a general CT examination is a relatively safer procedure. The CT scanner is a large machine that has a hole in the center. It is provided with a sliding patient table, which can move back and front. You will be asked to lie over the table and would be instructed by the radiographer regarding the procedure. Once he/she has made sure that you are familiar with the instructions, the examination would start. You may be required to remain still for a few minutes during the examination. However, this should not be for long. It usually takes about less than 10 to 15 minutes. You will be alone in the examination room. The radiologist would be seated in the adjacent room and you can communicate with them incase you feel any discomfort.

CT Scan - Disadvantages
Need for contrast media for enhanced soft tissue contrast. Tissue non-specificity i.e. it does have ability to highlight any particular organ/ tissue. Cost concerns

In a conventional X-ray, a broad beam of x-rays passes through the patient to produce an image on the X-ray film. Whereas, in CT, a thin beam of X-rays is passed through the patient that is absorbed by a detector.

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What are the risks associated with the procedure

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The device uses X-ray radiation as described previously. The amount of radiation received from a CT examination is less than the amount of background radiation received by a person in 3 years. Examining the risk Vs benefit ratio, the benefit is considerably greater. In some cases where a contrast material is injected or swallowed, the radiology department is well equipped to tackle any emergency situation due to an allergic reaction. Mothers who breast-feed can usually resume the same after 24 hours of injection of the contrast material. By this time, the material would be excreted from the body. It is recommended that you discuss with your doctor regarding the issue for more information.

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Caption: Brain haemorrhage. Coloured computed tomography (CT) scan of a section through the brain of a 75 year old patient with a intracerebral haemorrhage (bleeding). Blood (orange) is leaking into the ventricles of the brain, causing a haematoma (solid mass). Intracerebral haemorrhages are most often caused by hypertension (high blood pressure), but may also be caused by injury, drug abuse or an abnormality of the blood vessels. Symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, and deficiencies in balance, coordination and focusing the eyes. Treatment is with surgery to remove the clot, but the prognosis is poor.