Computed tomography, more commonly known as a CT or CAT scan, is a diagnostic medical imaging test. Like traditional x-rays, it produces multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body.
A CT scan generates images that can be reformatted in multiple planes. It can even generate three-dimensional images. Your doctor can review these images on a computer monitor, print them on film or via a 3D printer, or transfer them to a CD or DVD.
CT images of internal organs, bones, soft tissue, and blood vessels provide greater detail than traditional x-rays. This is especially true for soft tissues and blood vessels.
CT scanning provides more detailed information on head injuries, stroke, brain tumors, and other brain diseases than regular x-rays.
What are some common uses of the procedure?
Doctors typically use head CT to detect:
bleeding, brain injury and skull fractures in patients with head injuries.
bleeding caused by a ruptured or leaking aneurysm in a patient with a sudden severe headache.
a blood clot or bleeding within the brain in a patient with symptoms of a stroke.
