What is a CT scan?
A CT scan, also called computed tomography, was formerly known as a computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan. It is an imaging test that helps healthcare service providers detect disease, injury, bones, and soft tissues. In this procedure, multiple X-ray images are combined to generate cross-sectional views using a computer. 3D pictures of the internal organs can also be generated. A CT scan provides a clear and precise view of the internal organs.
A large doughnut-shaped CT scan machine clicks images taken from different angles of the body. After processing through a computer, a cross-sectional picture of the body is produced. In the images , the body is seen as an X-ray “slice” recorded on film. That image is known as 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 similarly seen on CT scan slices, from the skin to the central part of the body being examined. The images obtained from CT scans help doctors and healthcare professionals with better diagnosis and treatment.
| Also known as | CAT scan |
| Purpose | This medical technique is used to visualise soft tissues, bones, muscles, organs, and blood vessels to diagnose disease states. |
| Preparation | Avoid wearing glasses, metal jewellery, and fitted clothes |
| Fasting | Fasting is not always required |
| Test Time Duration | Maximum 30 minutes |
| Get reports within | 2–5 hours |
A CT scan is performed for various medical reasons. The primary purpose of a CT scan is to diagnose and provide an accurate assessment of different clinical conditions. On-time detection will help healthcare professionals adopt correct medical procedures, which will enhance the monitoring of treatment effectiveness. A CT scan helps healthcare professionals diagnose various health issues, including:
Specific preparations are necessary to obtain accurate and correct results from the CT scan. Here are some general guidelines to follow:
In certain cases, you will be given a specific solution or water to consume before your scan if an oral contrast agent is needed to aid in viewing the organs. Here are some additional guidelines for the preparation of a CT scan with contrast:
Here is a step-by-step procedure for doing a CT scan.
If you have a severe accident with multiple injuries in various body parts, then it is recommended to go for a CT scan. People who are doubtful about having cancer, heart disease, kidney stones, and bowel disorders can consider getting a CT scan done.
It does not have any significant side effects, but some patients may experience side effects due to administration of contrast agent. Headaches, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting are some of the common side effects.
Although a CT scan is a handy and valuable tool for diagnosing several diseases, it provides information that can’t be detected with other medical procedures. They do carry specific risks, so it is essential to understand these risks and have a one-to-one discussion with a healthcare provider.
Here is a comparison of all three types of scans:
| Feature | CT scan | MRI | X-ray |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy Source | Multiple X-ray beams | Magnetic fields and radio waves | X-rays |
| Image type | 3D images | 2D and 3D images | 2D images |
| Radiation | Moderate | No radiation | low |
| Time taken | 10 mins to 30 mins | 15 mins to 60 mins | 5 mins to 20 mins |
| Primary use | Bones (complex fractures) soft tissues (blood vessels, lung tumors, etc.) | Soft tissues (spinal cord, brain, muscles, ligaments, etc.) | Bones (fractures, dislocations, teeth, and chest issues) |
| Accessibility | Available in hospitals and imaging centres | Less widely available | Widely available |
| Cost | More expensive than X-ray | Most Expensive | Generally least expensive |
| Limitations | Not ideal for pregnant women | Cannot be used with metal implants like a pacemaker | Poor for soft tissues |
A CT scan is a potent diagnostic tool that helps to solve critical health problems, from diagnosing internal bleeding and bone issues to liver, lung and kidney problems. A CT scan is a painless procedure that helps identify both normal and abnormal structures and can be used to guide further procedures. Are you looking for a CT scan near you? Don’t worry. Get accurate diagnostics with a CT scan near me with price clarity only at Medicentre in Udaipur. Check their CT scan price for affordable diagnostic services.
A CT scan is a medical imaging technique that uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. It enables the detection of a wide range of health issues and injuries.
X-ray uses a single beam of radiation to create 2D images of mainly bones and joints, while a CT scan uses multiple X-ray beams to create 3D, detailed pictures of different body parts and organs.
Medicare Sonography and Clinical Lab is the best CT scan center in Udaipur.
Yes, generally, you need a prescription from a doctor to undergo a CT scan.
Do not eat solid food for four hours before the CT scan. Instead, consume fluids like water or juice. Wear loose-fitting clothes before the examination.
No, contrast dye is not used in all the CT scans.
CT scans are considered safe and medically necessary by healthcare practitioners. Low radiation doses show no long-term side effects. While they involve more radiation than X-rays, the exposure varies depending on the scan type and the body part being examined.
A CT scan usually takes 10 to 30 minutes to complete.
You will receive your reports within 2 to 5 hours.
The CT scan price in Udaipur ranges from ₹ 2,500 to ₹ 8,000.