What is a computerized tomography (CT) scan?

Cardiac computed tomography (CT scan), also called computerized axial tomographic (CAT) scan, is an X-ray imaging technique that uses a computer to produce cross-sectional ( tomographic) images of the chest (including the heart and great vessels) or the brain. It’s used to diagnose and evaluate heart diseases such as aortic diseases, cardiac masses and pericardial disease and to define the areas in the brain affected by stroke.

A computed axial tomography scan (CAT scan or just CT scan) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.

A CT scan is a medical imaging method employed to generate a three-dimensional image of the inside of an object from a large series of two-dimensional x-ray images taken around a single axis of rotation.

A "CT scan" is the term used to describe a radiologic test known as "computerized tomography." The CT scanner is a doughnut-shaped machine that uses advanced x-ray technology to take pictures of your body. A computer then reconstructs the data into cross-sectional pictures of your body, called slices or sections.

CT can be used to see inside the brain and other parts of the body areas that cannot be seen with regular x-ray examinations. Recent advancements in CT technology now make it possible to diagnose certain diseases earlier and more accurately than with other imaging tools.

A computed tomography (CT) scan is a scan that uses x-rays to take detailed cross-sectional images of the body, including the arteries and beating heart. A contrast dye is injected into a vein. As this dye moves through the heart and blood vessels, the CT scan will take detailed pictures. These pictures can then be used to create a 3-D reconstruction of the heart and major blood vessels. Your doctor can use these images to identify problems with the heart or blood vessels and develop a treatment plan if necessary.

A computed tomography (CT) scan is taken by a special x-ray machine. Rather than sending one wide x-ray beam through your body, this machine sends out many beams from many angles. A computer uses the results to generate detailed, cross-sectional pictures of your body. The CT scan provides a much clearer picture of your head than a regular x-ray. The test is painless and can help identify tumors, bleeding, areas of damaged brain tissue, and even sinus infections. It takes approximately 10 minutes. In some cases, a contrast dye is administered intravenously to define the brain structures more clearly. However, these scans expose you to far more radiation than a conventional x-ray and should be avoided when possible.