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SERVICES
- CT OR COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) scan, also referred to as a CT scan, allows your physician to see detailed images of organs within your body that are not seen on conventional X-Rays. The CT scan combines sophisticated computer technology with advanced X-Ray equipment. The combination of the two provides a detailed picture of internal organs of the human body. This allows the radiologist and your physician to see detailed organ studies by accumulating individual images to be studied.
Common uses of this procedure.
In cancer detection, computed tomography is used to scan for abnormal masses which might be malignant tumors (cancers). CT scans can show the size and shape of a tumor, its precise location in the body and whether it's solid or hollow. Although a CT scan sometimes is able to tell the difference between a benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) tumor, the final diagnosis is made by a biopsy or other test. When a needle biopsy is performed for cancer diagnosis, CT scanning also can be used to guide the insertion of the biopsy needle into precisely the right location for sampling a tumor.
In addition to cancer detection, CT scans have many other uses, including the detection of abscesses, strokes, head injuries and bleeding inside the skull.
In obese patients, CT scanning may be more useful than ultrasound, since large amounts of body fat can interfere with ultrasound waves.
Preparation Required
You will be asked to change into a gown for most procedures. Metal objects can affect the image, so avoid clothing with zippers and snaps. You may be asked to remove hairpins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids and any removable dental work that could obscure the images. You also may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking anything for 4 hours before the exam. Women should always inform their doctor or X-Ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
To Schedule a Test
To schedule a CT Scan Exam, Please call Pueblo Medical Imaging at 702-228-0031. |
