What is a CT scan?

A computerised tomography (CT) scanner uses X-rays & a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body.

CT scans can sometimes be referred to as CAT scans, or computed tomography scans.

CT scans produce detailed images of multiple structures inside the body, including the internal organs, blood vessels & bones.

CT can be used to:

Diagnose conditions – including damage to bones, injuries to internal organs, problems with blood flow, such as coronary artery disease, strokes & cancer.
Guide further tests or treatments – for example, CT scans can help to determine the location, size & shape of a tumour before having radiotherapy, or allow a doctor to take a needle biopsy (where a small tissue sample is removed using a needle) or drain an abscess
Monitor conditions– including checking the size of tumours during & after cancer treatment

This article was published on 2024-08-22