A CT scan (computerised tomography) scan is a radiation based scan, which uses a computer to display the scan images of the inside of your body. The scan images produced during a CT scan helps your doctor to determine and diagnose certain diseases and disorders of your body.it can also be used to keep an eye on your treatment progression, to check how well it is going and how effective it is.
What a CT Scan Tells?
A CT or CAT scan uses a rotating X-ray machine system which, with the help of a computer, shows cross-sectional images of the inside of your body. The CT scan is a more detailed imaging technique than a traditional x-ray system. These are capable of showing the
- Soft tissues
- Bones
- Blood vessels
- Internal structures such as
- Head
- Shoulders
- Spine
- Heart
- Abdomen
- Knee
- Chest
- Arm
- Joints
A CT scan may help your doctor–
- To diagnose a muscle or bone disorder such as a tumour or fracture.
- It can clearly and precisely pinpoint the location of the tumour, infection or blood clot.
- It is also used to guide certain procedures such as needle biopsy, surgery or any radiation therapy.
- Internal bleeding or haemorrhage can be clearly visualised in internally injured cases.
- Ct scan can help us keep a followup and note on how well the treatment is going, and how effective certain medicine is, such as in case of cancer.
- It is useful in helping make the diagnosis of certain conditions such as heart disease, lung nodules or liver masses.
Types of a CT Scan
There are many types of CT scans such as
- CT Angiography
- CT abdomen scan
- CT bones scan
- Head CT
- CT of Chest/lungs
- Cardiac CT
- CT neck
- Pelvic CT scan
- CT scan for kidney
- CT scan of the spine
What is The Difference Between a CT scan or a CAT Scan?
A CT and a CAT scan are not different scans but the same thing. CT stands for computerised tomography and CAT stands for Computerised Axial Tomography. The CAT scan was earlier named EMI Scan, it was named after a company that created the technology. The names and technology evolved and it was called CAT scan , with a simpler version the scan is now popularised by the name of a CT scan.
How Much a CT Scan Cost?
There is no one fixed price for a CT scan, the price varies according to the location and purpose for which a CT scan is being performed, it also depends from one diagnostic centre to another. A CT scan may generally vary from 2000-4000/- INR it may cost higher as well, depending upon the purpose
Things that determine the pricing of a CT scan are
- If you are undergoing a plain CT scan or CT scan with contrast dye
- Which part of your body is to be CT scanned
- The place where you live
- If you are getting CT scan as inpatient or outpatient facility
- If your scan is getting covered under your Insurance
- Whether the facility if near you or out of network
- What is the charge of the Technician doing the scan and the fee of the radiologist reading and interpreting the scan reports
What Are the Risks and Side Effects of a CT Scan?
- The CT scan procedure is usually performed by trained personnel and under safety guidelines, but there is a chance that you may develop cancer. Because a CT scan uses ionising radiation, which may damage your DNA structure, leading to a cancer.the chances of cancer are very low, but if it still bothers you, you should consult your doctor.
- The radiation effects keep on getting added with each scan that you are getting, consulting the doctor every time you are getting scanned can reduce the risk of increasing the possibility of side effects.
- Children are more susceptible to ionising radiations used by a CT scan and its side effects. Any scan for a child is only done when required, also you can check with the technician if he has put the Ct scanning machine setting for a child.
- If you are pregnant, you should inform your healthcare provider beforehand only, as the radiation may harm the unborn child. The scan which is usually performed during pregnancy is an Ultrasound scan.
- Some people might develop allergic reactions to the contrast dye that is used for Ct scan. The allergic reaction may start as a rash or itching and redness. There are certain medications that help reduce and resolve the allergic reaction, you should inform your doctor as soon as the first symptom appears.
- If you are on diabetic medications such as metformin, your doctor might ask to not take the medication before and after the scan.
- There is a rare chance that your kidney gets affected , it can happen due to the contrast medium.
Summary
A CT scan is a great way to look into one’s body in order to help evaluate and diagnose certain disorders and diseases. It can be very helpful for your doctor to determine and develop a treatment plan to effectively and precisely treat you. Look for the Best CT Scan diagnostic centre near you to get yourself diagnosed on time, with accuracy.