Computed tomography (CT) scan is a type of x-ray that uses a computer to
take cross-sectional images of your body. Computed tomography angiography
(CTA) combines a CT scan with a special dye or contrast material to produce
pictures of blood vessels and tissues in a section of your body.
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
Computed tomography (CT) scan is a diagnostic imaging test that combines
a series of x-ray images taken from different angles and uses computer
processing to create detailed images of internal organs, bones, soft tissue
and blood vessels. The cross-sectional images generated during a CT scan
provide more detailed information than a normal X-ray.
A CT scan is fast, painless, noninvasive and accurate. In emergency cases,
it can reveal internal injuries and bleeding quickly enough to help save
lives. Your physician may recommend a CT scan to help:
Diagnose muscle and bone disorders, such as bone tumors and fractures
Pinpoint the location of a tumor, infection or blood clot
Guide procedures such as surgery, biopsy and radiation therapy
Detect and monitor diseases and conditions such as cancer, heart disease,
lung nodules and liver masses
Monitor the effectiveness of certain treatments, such as cancer treatment
Detect internal injuries and internal bleeding
Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) Scan
Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) uses an injection of contrast material
into your blood vessels and CT scanning to help diagnose and evaluate
blood vessel disease or related conditions, such as aneurysms or blockages.
When a contrast material is introduced to the bloodstream during the procedure,
it clearly defines the blood vessels being examined by making them appear
bright white.
Your physician may recommend a CTA scan if you have an abnormality that
involves the blood vessels of your brain, heart, lungs, kidneys or other
parts of your body. Some reasons to have a CTA include:
To find an aneurysm or forms of plaque in the walls of arteries
Abnormal blood vessel formations inside your brain
Identify blood vessels damaged by injury, tumors or find blood clots
How to Prepare for a CT or CTA Scan?
During a CT or CTA scan, you are briefly exposed to ionizing radiation.
Radiologists use the lowest dose of radiation possible to obtain the needed
medical information. Tell your physician if you are pregnant. Although
the radiation from a CT scan is unlikely to injure your baby, your physician
may recommend another type of exam, such as ultrasound or MRI, to avoid
exposing your baby to radiation.
You may be asked to change into a patient gown. Please remove all piercings
and leave all jewelry and valuables at home. Furthermore, please make
sure you confirm if you can eat, drink and take your prescribed medications
with your physician prior to your exam.
Leading edge technology backed by compassion and commitment.
At Gunnison Valley Health, we provide advanced imaging services right here
in the Gunnison Valley. Our on-site radiologists and certified technologists
offer expertise, experience, and diagnostic excellence to the residents
and guests of our area.
For more information, speak to your physician or contact Gunnison Valley
Health's Diagnostic Imaging Department at
(970) 641-7253.
