The word Tomography is derived from the Greek word Tomos which

means “slice” and graphien which means “to write”

A CT scan is a diagnostic imaging

procedure that uses a combination of X-
rays and computer technology to produce
images of the inside of the body.
Parameters
 Slice
 Matrix
 Pixel
 Voxel
 CT number
 Windowing
 Window width
 Window level
 Pitch
Equipment

 The CT scanner is typically a large box

like machine with a hole, or short tunnel, in the center.
 The patient lies on a narrow examination
table that slides into and out of this tunnel.
 Rotating around the patient, the x-ray tube
and electronic x-ray detectors are located opposite each other
in a ring, called a gantry.
 The computer workstation that processes the
imaging information is located in a separate control room, where the technologist
operates the scanner and monitors your examination.
Tools used in CT Scanner

Filter:
The filter stays between the patient and the source of the x-ray.
Detector array:
Now, the detector array is one of the most functional parts of a CT scan. Collimator:
The collimator is located immediately in front of the detectors to protect them from
scattered X-rays.
Gantry:
Gantry is the most significant part of a CT scanner. Well, it is nothing but a circular and
rotating frame. At one side of the gantry, an x-ray tube is mounted. And on the other
hand, the detector is placed.
What does a CT scan show?
Your healthcare provider will order a CT scan to help
make a diagnosis of your health. The scan enables
providers to closely examine bones, organs and other
soft tissues, blood vessels and suspicious growths.
Things that a CT scan can find include:
 Certain types of cancer and benign (noncancerous)
tumors.
 Fractures (broken bones).
 Heart disease.
 Blood clots.
 Bowel disorders (blockages, Crohn's disease).
 Brain and spinal cord diseases or injuries.
 Internal bleeding.
 Indications of CT Scan:

1. Brain:
tumors,
stroke,
edema,
skull fracture,
hydrocephalus,
2. Neck:
 tumors,
 benign masses,
 3. Chest:
 tumor,
 pneumonia,
 metastasis,
4. Abdomen:
primary tumors,
abscess,
cholecystitis,
appendicitis
pancreatitis,
 5. Spine:

fractures,
 degenerative changes,
 disc pathology
 Primary tumors,
 Metastasis
 6. Bone:
 complex bone fractures,
 Primary bone tumors,
 Osteomyelitis
 Bone metastasis
 9. CT Angiography:

brain,
heart,
lung,
kidney,
extremities (upper & lower limbs)

10. Intraoperative:

 CT scan can be used for neuronavigation

procedures during:
- brain biopsy
- or tumor resection.
Absolute Contraindications

1) Because of the relatively high radiation dose involved in

CT scans, it is important to avoid scanning patients who are
pregnant, particularly in the first trimester. Radiation exposure
to a foetus can cause developmental problems.
2) Hyperthyroidism or goitre may be a contraindication to the
use of IVCM, It can induce thyrotoxic crisis in these patients.
3) Patients who have a known allergy to the IVCM used in CT
scans should not be referred for scans where IVCM is required
to attain a diagnosis.
4) Renal impairment may also prohibit your patient from
having IVCM. You should check the patient’s creatinine and
estimated glomerular filtration rate before referral
● Benefits of CT Scan:
1. CT scans can detect bone and joint problems,
like complex bone fractures and tumors.

CT Scan of Bone Tumor

2. If you have a condition like cancer, heart
disease, emphysema, or liver masses, CT scans
can spot it or help doctors see any changes.

CT Scan of liver masses and Coronary artery disease

3. It shows internal injuries and bleeding, such
as those caused by a car accident.

Internal Bleeding of Abdomen

4. They can help locate a tumor, blood clot, excess fluid, or
infection.

CT Scan of Lung Infection

5. A major advantage of CT is its ability to image
bone, soft tissue, and blood vessels all at the same time.

CT Scan of Neck bone, soft tissues & blood vessels

7. CT scanning is painless, noninvasive, and
accurate.

8. No radiation remains in a patient's body after a

CT exam.
9. CT has been shown to be a cost-effective imaging
tool for a wide range of clinical problems.

10. CT scan is less sensitive to

patient movement than MRI.
 RISKS Of CT Scan
 Certain factors or conditions may interfere with the accuracy of a CT scan
of the chest. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following:
 Metallic objects within the chest, such as surgical clips or a pacemaker.
 Body piercings on the chest.
 Barium in the esophagus from a recent barium study.
 The amount of radiation used during a CT scan is
considered minimal; therefore, the risk for radiation
exposure is low.
 Radiation exposure during pregnancy may lead to birth
defects.
 If contrast dye is used, there is a risk for allergic reaction to
the dye. Patients who are allergic to or sensitive to
medications, contrast dye, iodine, or shellfish should notify
their physician.
 Patients with kidney failure or other kidney problems
should notify their physician.