Computed tomography (CT) is a medical imaging technique that uses X-

rays and computer processing to create detailed images of the body. CT

scans are often used to diagnose bone and joint problems, like complex
bone fractures and tumors1.

CT scans are also used to image the non-bony parts or soft tissues of the
body. They differ from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in that they use
ionizing radiation of x-rays. The brain, spinal cord and nerves, as well as
muscles, ligaments, and tendons are seen much more clearly with MRI than
with regular x-rays and CT; for this reason MRI is often used to image knee
and shoulder injuries. In the brain, MRI can differentiate between white
matter and grey matter and can also be used to diagnose aneurysms and
tumors. Because MRI does not use x-rays or other radiation, it is the
imaging modality of choice when frequent imaging is required for diagnosis
or therapy, especially in the brain1.

The length of a CT scan depends on the type of scan being performed. A

typical CT scan of the head takes about 5-10 minutes. However, more
complex scans may take longer. Your doctor will be able to give you a
better idea of how long your specific scan will take.

CT scans are used for a variety of reasons. They are often used to
diagnose bone and joint problems, like complex bone fractures and tumors.
CT scans are also used to image the non-bony parts or soft tissues of the
body. They differ from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in that they use
ionizing radiation of x-rays. The brain, spinal cord and nerves, as well as
muscles, ligaments, and tendons are seen much more clearly with MRI than
with regular x-rays and CT; for this reason MRI is often used to image knee
and shoulder injuries. In the brain, MRI can differentiate between white
matter and grey matter and can also be used to diagnose aneurysms and
tumors. Because MRI does not use x-rays or other radiation, it is the
imaging modality of choice when frequent imaging is required for diagnosis
or therapy, especially in the brain.

The length of a CT scan depends on the type of scan being performed. A

typical CT scan of the head takes about 5-10 minutes. However, more
complex scans may take longer. Your doctor will be able to give you a
better idea of how long your specific scan will take.