What’s a CT scan?
A CT scan uses special X-ray equipment to take pictures of the inside of your body from different angles. You’ll lie on a bed that slowly moves through a donut-shaped structure that holds an X-ray tube. The X-ray tube moves around your body to take a series of pictures. A computer uses these pictures, also called “slices,” to create a 3D image. Your doctor can rotate the 3D image or view individual slices one after another.
Why do I need a CT scan?
Your doctor may recommend a CT scan to examine your body for signs of:
- Aortic aneurysm
- Arthritis
- Blood disease
- Blood clots
- Bowel disease
- Brain tumor
- Broken bones
- Cancer
- Cystic fibrosis
- Gum disease
- Heart disease
- Infection
- Internal bleeding or swelling
- Osteoporosis
- Pulmonary embolism
- Sinus problems
- Spinal column damage
- Stroke
- Urinary tract issues