Doctors and physicians choose different medical imaging methods to diagnose patients’ health conditions and provide the right treatment. Among many popular scanning techniques, CT scan proves to be more effective. Experts say this diagnostic imaging tool is non-invasive and painless and simultaneously aids doctors in making the right medical decision. Let’s unfold the secrets about this scan.
What is a CT imaging procedure?
Computed Tomography or CT is one of the most common medical imaging techniques that help doctors figure out the disease in a short time. It uses the ionized radiation method for X-rays and a computer screen to display high-definition images. Though being so popular, many people have multiple misconceptions. For example, some say it is invasive. Some say it requires multiple steps and cause risks. And many more. However, reality speaks the truth.
Why shouldn’t you hesitate to get a CT imaging test?
Though many people wonder whether it is good to go with a CT imaging procedure, you should not hesitate to perform this test. This is due to the following reasons.
1. Highly-detailed images: Images captured using computed tomography are highly detailed compared to other medical scanning processes. They are vibrant and appear in black and gray colors without contrast. For example, if a fractured bone is scanned, the CT scan images will also highlight the blood vessels and soft tissues near that area. This helps doctors determine the exact problematic area and its effect on the body.
2. Computerized images: Besides providing clear and detailed pictures of the tissues, bones, blood vessels, and other internal sections, doctors can enhance and enlarge images if required. This is possible because these images are displayed on computer screens. Just like you have the flexibility to zoom in and out your images on a computer, laptop, or other mobile devices, doctors can do the same with these scanned images. Moreover, they can even send the images electronically to other devices whenever they feel like taking a second opinion of their seniors or specialists. Due to such leverages, many people assume that the CT scan price in Delhi or nearby regions are higher. Well, that again varies from one diagnostic center to another.
3. Quicker recovery time: CT imaging process does not require enough time to capture detailed images of the cross-sectional areas of the body. It takes around 15 minutes to complete the entire process. Since doctors or physicians get the reports in a short period, they can make early detection and early diagnosis of the disease. As a result, patients can experience faster recovery with the right course of treatment.
This is definitely one strong reason to get a CT test without hesitation. But make sure you schedule a scan after clarifying the CT scan price in Delhi or other regions.
Is it riskier to get a CT scan?
Computed tomography scans are comparatively safer and painless. However, if you are talking about a CT with contrast, there are certain things to remember. The contrast or the dye used in this procedure is not suitable for all patients. This is because it contains iodine or barium, which often causes allergies.
In most cases, patients have rashes and itching problems after getting a CT scan with contrast. In extreme cases, it may cause kidney problems and even life risks. Therefore, patients must share their past medical history and current health conditions with the doctor or the radiologist before getting a scan with contrast.
Yes, it is true that for some patients, this scan with contrast can be riskier. But the question is, why do doctors suggest this particular scan for some patients?
A scan without contrast uses black and gray shades to display images of the internal body organs. Unfortunately, it becomes difficult at times to identify the critical areas. As a result, it causes a delay in the overall treatment. Hence, doctors suggest the scan with contrast.
The contrast is mainly used to highlight the areas that show abnormal behavior. It uses white color to differentiate between the two soft tissues or blood vessels. Though a scan without contrast can also provide detailed images, the one with contrast makes the diagnosis process easier.
Different types of computed tomography scan doctors usually suggest
The computed tomography process is used to diagnose multiple sections of the body. It can be the brain, heart, abdomen, pelvis, kidney, lungs, and so on. Types of scans are based on these body organs. Moreover, the CT scan price in Delhi or other regions also depends upon the organ for which the scan is performed. Some kind of scan types include –
- CT angiography
- CT bone scan
- CT neck
- Cardiac CT
- Head CT
- Pelvis CT
- Kidney CT
- Spinal CT
- CT chest or lungs
No matter which scan type your doctor suggests, it is good to discuss with the physician whether you should go for the scan with or without contrast.
Preparations and protections you require before a CT test
Every medical imaging method requires proper preparations and protection. For CT diagnostic process, there is no exception. Though the imaging procedure doesn’t require much preparation, there are certain things to take care of before the examination.
For a CT scan, patients need to lie down inside a cylindrical tube where X-rays are used to scan the whole body. Any presence of a metallic object on the body may affect the overall process. As X-rays can’t penetrate through metallic objects, these can even cause damage to the machine. Hence, the initial step of the scanning procedure is to remove all metallic and medication objects from the body. Such as –
- Jewelry
- Watches
- Piercing
- Hairpins
- Hearing aids
- Nicotine patches
- Other medication patches
Secondly, it is important to check out the CT scan price in Delhi or in your region instead of selecting any random medical imaging center. Thirdly, it is necessary to share your health condition, especially if you have a past medical history of claustrophobia. Claustrophobic patients find it difficult to stay 15 minutes in a closed chamber. Hence, they are given a mild sedative to feel relaxed. These preparations and precautions are extremely needed before the examination.