Computer Assisted Tomography (CAT scan or CT scan) is a medical imaging technique used to obtain a detailed cross-sectional image of the inside of the body. It combines X-ray technology with advanced computer processing to produce highly detailed, three-dimensional images of organs, tissues, and bones.
During a CT scan, the patient lies on a table that moves through a ring-shaped machine known as a gantry. Inside the gantry, an X-ray source rotates around the patient, emitting a series of X-ray beams. Detectors on the opposite side of the gantry measure the X-rays that pass through the body and convert them into electrical signals. These signals are then processed by a computer, which constructs a series of images or slices that represent different levels or planes of the body. The final result is a set of highly detailed, cross-sectional images that can be viewed on a computer monitor or printed.
Computer Assisted Tomography is widely used for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of medical conditions such as tumors, fractures, blood clots, infections, and diseases affecting the head, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and spine. It provides healthcare professionals with a valuable tool to accurately identify and evaluate abnormalities or diseases in various parts of the body, aiding in the development of appropriate treatment plans.
With its ability to capture highly detailed images in a non-invasive manner, CT scans have revolutionized the field of medical imaging and become an integral part of modern medical diagnostics.
