| Advertisement |
| What Patients Need to Know About Today s CT Scans |
Did you know that computerized tomography (CT) scans, also known as CAT scans, are the most sophisticated, life-saving, medical imaging techniques available today for detecting abnormalities and diseases in the brain, heart, lungs and other body parts?
Chances are that eventually either you or someone you know will be scanned with a CT because of its superior diagnostic capabilities. Both physicians and patients now prefer CT scanning because it is painless, non-invasive and extremely accurate. In fact, a diagnosis made with the assistance of CT can eliminate the need for invasive surgery and biopsies.
Since its development, CT technology has improved as rapidly as today's personal computers. In the 1980s, it took more than two minutes to scan a patient's entire body. Today, it only takes 15 seconds. This faster scan speed reduces exam time and is beneficial to patients who have difficulty holding their breath for long periods of time, such as trauma victims and the elderly.
CT uses X-ray to generate computerized, three-dimensional images rather than one-dimensional images taken with traditional X-ray systems. CT scans image cross-sections of your body, called "slices," which doctors use to diagnose diseases and then plan effective treatment.
Unlike other imaging methods, CT scanning offers detailed views of many types of tissue including the lungs, bones, soft tissues and blood vessels.
While CT was originally used to image the brain, with recent advances, it now can image any part of the body. Using CT images, radiologists are now more easily able to diagnose illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases, and musculoskeletal disorders. Because CT exams are fast, they are useful in trauma cases where they can help save lives by revealing internal injuries and bleeding more quickly.
As CT technology continues to improve, it's important to keep in mind that not all CT scanners are created equal. For example, Toshiba's Aquilion scanners provide up to 64-slice scanning, which offers the highest image quality optimized for particular diagnostic needs, such as imaging the heart in less than 10 seconds. In addition, the Aquilion features advanced technology that reduces the amount of radiation exposure during an exam for added patient safety.
When considering a CT scan, you should speak with your doctor about the best type of CT for your particular medical needs. To learn more about Toshiba's Aquilion line of CT scanners and multi-slice scanning, visit www.medical.toshiba.com. - NU |
|
|
Main Categories |
