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Computed tomography (CT) is a medical imaging method employing tomography. Digital geometry processing is used to generate a three-dimensional image of the inside of an object from a large series of two-dimensional X-ray images taken around a single axis of rotation. The word "tomography" is derived from the Greek tomos (slice) and graphein (to write).
CT produces a volume of data which can be manipulated, through a process known as windowing, in order to demonstrate various structures based on their ability to block the X-ray beam. Although historically (see below) 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 healthcare, CT is also used in other fields, for example nondestructive materials testing. Another example is the DigiMorph project at the University of Texas at Austin which uses a CT scanner to study biological and paleontological specimens. Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ct_scan
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at Thursday, 28 October 2010 18:36by Paul Responding to Sandy. Hi, I am living in NZ but am an Australian so have been treated in both hospital systems. The approach differs but basically it seems that a CT scan is useful for identifying if you have a cancer that has spread to another part of your body. The oncologists in NZ tend to do one immediately after removing a melanoma so they have a "baseline" to compare from (since it is apparently possible to have both false positive and negative results). They then do a follow up every 6 months. They have made it clear that finding a tumor that has spread doesn't mean it can be treated but it might help. In contrast, the oncologist I consulted in Australia (at Mater) explained that it was not standard in Qld to do a CT scan but if a patient insisted they would. He believed the best early warning of a spreading tumor was if you didn't feel well (also reinforced by NZ doctors). So bottom line seems to be that if it helps you feel better then insist but it seems to be a tool to identify a tumor that has already spread at which point options become a bit more limited.
5"Mrs"
at Friday, 19 February 2010 11:33by Sandy O\'Hare I had a level 4 melanoma removed from my back last year. Fortunately the margins were clear and I just have to go in for follow-up every few months.
At my last follow-up appointment at the hospital the doctor said something about having full-body scans with my GP every 6 months. At the time I assumed he was talking about mole-checks but have since wondered whether he actually meant I should be having CT scans to monitor for metastases. The bean counters at the hospital have decided to leave my next appointment for an additional 3 months, making it 6 months between appointments (I am still supposed to be having 3-monthly follow-ups) and it seems my concerns are not important enough for a doctor from the hospital to respond to over the phone. My GP is wonderful but unsure of the protocols for monitoring melanoma. Therefore I am asking those who have experience with the disease whether it is likely that I should be having regular CT scans to monitor for metastases. I am a 36-year-old mother of 3 beautiful boys who need me and I don't want to take ANY chances. 4"Ms"
at Sunday, 16 November 2008 12:15by Rosemary I have had regular CT scans over the last 5 years - and anticipate I'll be having them for a while longer. Often I have had them after a PET scan
A few tips that i've found makes the process easier: firstly some hospitals give you the solution at the hospital, rather than taking the thick solution home. The drink at the hospital is much more palatable(for some reason it can't be taken home), it is just like water, and of cordial consistency. It just requires sitting in the waiting room for an hour or so, but this was much better taha gagging on the other stuff! Also - I found having a CT and PET on the same day, (if they have been ordered), much easier than over separate days. It does mean you only have to fast once, you only have one jab to the arm - and you get them both out of the way. Do make sure to drink lots of water before scans - it makes finding a vein so much less painful! Also - I usually wear comfy clothes like a track paints and teeshirt, no bra, no jewellery, so you can go through the machines in your own clothes, rather than get cold in the white gown. 3"Ms"
at Tuesday, 12 August 2008 14:17by Judy Middlebrook The "What's it like" segment is excellent. The advice given by others for coping with CT and MRI scans is good, but to elaborate, I have found that the best way to keep calm is to pick a piece of music (Mozart's Ave Verum fits the bill) and when you are in the machine, use it as the focus of your meditation - sing it in your head, try to remember the different parts, imagine a choir singing it etc.
If you would like to add a segment on PET scans I can contribute to the "what's it like" personal stories. Thanks again for the help. 2"Mrs"
at Monday, 24 March 2008 17:28by Barb Rix I believe the 1st CT Scan is the worst – the fear of the unknown! I have these Scans 3-monthly and I don’t think I will ever get used to ‘the drink’. Once checking in at Reception you’re asked to sign a form to allow the Scan with dye to be done and you’re issued with 1 Litre of thick White mixture, and told to drink 1 cup every 15 mins until it’s all gone in the hour. Just psyche yourself up and once you get into it it's not too bad. Probably better not to sip it because it then takes forever to get down – a few good gulps are better! You’re then taken into start the process and a series of scans are done before the dye is injected. You have to lie still and have your arms up over your head for the whole process. As soon as the dye is injected you feel a rush of warmth throughout your body, and for the ladies a feeling of real urgency to do a wee (but let me assure you it doesn’t happen). The whole thing doesn’t take very long but you do have to wait a while before they let you leave, just to make sure you are OK. I’ve never had any problems though. Waiting for the results is the worst part I think.
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at Friday, 21 March 2008 13:36by Herman My first CT scan, I remembert thinking how am I going to drink all of that drink they give you - think of it as Baileys - after consuming the drink I went into the room and was told I was on the list to have the injection that makes parts of your body feel warm - mainly the top of my head (a warm and fuzzy feeling without the feel good stuff) You will be told to hold your breath for periods of time as per normal x-rays only excetion for me was the lady doing the test forgot to say breath again until I couldn't hold my breath any longer
Summary Not painful apart from the needle Try to relax Breath |
Computed tomography was originally known as the "EMI scan" as it was
developed at a research branch of EMI, a company best known today for
its music and recording business. It was later known as computed axial
tomography (CAT or CT scan) and body section roentgenography.