What is the difference between a CAT scan and a CT scan. How are CT scans used in medical diagnostics. What should patients expect during a CT scan procedure. What are the benefits and potential side effects of CT scans.

The Evolution of Terminology: From CAT Scan to CT Scan

In the world of medical imaging, terminology can sometimes be confusing. This is particularly true when it comes to the terms “CAT scan” and “CT scan”. Despite sounding different, these acronyms actually refer to the same diagnostic procedure.

CAT stands for “computed axial tomography”, while CT is an abbreviation for “computed tomography”. The term “CAT scan” was initially more prevalent, but “CT scan” has gained popularity in recent years. Regardless of which term is used, they both describe an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body.

Why the Shift in Terminology?

The transition from “CAT scan” to “CT scan” reflects the evolution of the technology and its applications. Initially, these scans were primarily axial, meaning they produced images in a single plane. However, as the technology advanced, it became possible to create multi-planar reconstructions, making the term “axial” less relevant. This led to the simplified term “CT scan” becoming more widely adopted in medical circles.

The Science Behind CT Scans: How They Work

CT scans employ a sophisticated imaging technique that combines X-ray technology with advanced computer processing. During a CT scan, an X-ray tube rotates 360 degrees around the patient’s body, capturing images from multiple angles. These images are then processed by a computer to create detailed cross-sectional views of the body’s internal structures.

Key Components of a CT Scanner

• X-ray tube: Emits X-rays that pass through the body
• Detectors: Measure the amount of X-ray radiation that passes through the body
• Rotating gantry: Allows the X-ray tube and detectors to move around the patient
• Computer system: Processes the data to create detailed images

The ability to capture images from various angles and combine them into a single, detailed view is what sets CT scans apart from traditional X-rays. This technology allows healthcare professionals to visualize internal structures with unprecedented clarity and precision.

Medical Applications: When and Why CT Scans are Ordered

CT scans have become an indispensable tool in modern medicine, offering valuable insights into a wide range of medical conditions. Physicians may order a CT scan for various reasons, depending on the patient’s symptoms and medical history.

Common Reasons for Ordering a CT Scan

1. Diagnosing bone and joint problems
2. Detecting masses associated with various diseases
3. Locating blood clots, tumors, or infections
4. Assessing internal injuries after trauma
5. Planning for surgeries or other medical procedures
6. Monitoring the effectiveness of treatments

CT scans are particularly useful in emergency situations, where rapid diagnosis is crucial. They can quickly reveal internal injuries, bleeding, or other urgent conditions that may not be visible through external examination or other imaging methods.

CT Scans in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

In oncology, CT scans play a vital role in the diagnosis, staging, and monitoring of various types of cancer. They can help identify the location and size of tumors, determine if cancer has spread to other parts of the body, and assess how well a patient is responding to treatment.

Do CT scans detect all types of cancer? While CT scans are highly effective in detecting many types of cancer, they may not be suitable for all cases. Some cancers, particularly those in soft tissues, may be better visualized using other imaging techniques such as MRI or PET scans. The choice of imaging method depends on the specific type of cancer and its location in the body.

CT Scans with Contrast: Enhanced Imaging for Detailed Diagnosis

In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend a CT scan with contrast to obtain more detailed images of certain body structures. Contrast material is a special dye that can be administered orally, rectally, or intravenously, depending on the area being examined.

Benefits of Contrast-Enhanced CT Scans

• Improved visibility of blood vessels and organs
• Enhanced detection of tumors and other abnormalities
• Better differentiation between normal and abnormal tissues
• Increased accuracy in diagnosing certain conditions

How does contrast material work in CT scans? Contrast agents work by temporarily changing how X-rays interact with the body. They can make certain structures appear brighter or darker on the CT images, helping to highlight specific areas of interest. This enhanced visibility allows radiologists to detect and characterize abnormalities more accurately.

Potential Risks and Side Effects of Contrast Agents

While contrast agents are generally safe, some patients may experience mild side effects or, rarely, allergic reactions. It’s essential for patients to inform their healthcare providers of any allergies or medical conditions before undergoing a contrast-enhanced CT scan.

Common side effects may include:

• A metallic taste in the mouth
• Warm sensation throughout the body
• Nausea or vomiting
• Itching or hives

The CT Scan Procedure: What Patients Can Expect

Understanding the CT scan procedure can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth experience for patients. While specific protocols may vary depending on the healthcare facility and the type of scan being performed, the general process remains consistent.

Before the Scan: Preparation and Precautions

Preparation for a CT scan depends on the area being examined and whether contrast material will be used. In some cases, patients may be asked to:

• Fast for several hours before the scan
• Avoid certain medications
• Remove metal objects, such as jewelry or dentures
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing

Are there any restrictions before a CT scan? Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they are pregnant or think they might be pregnant, as CT scans involve exposure to ionizing radiation. Additionally, patients with certain medical conditions or implants may require special considerations.

During the Scan: The Imaging Process

The actual CT scan procedure typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the area being scanned. Patients lie on a table that slides into the CT scanner, which resembles a large donut. The scanner rotates around the body, capturing images from various angles.

Throughout the procedure, patients may hear humming or whirring noises as the machine operates. The technologist may provide instructions through an intercom, such as asking the patient to hold their breath briefly to ensure clear images.

After the Scan: Recovery and Results

Following the CT scan, patients can usually resume their normal activities immediately. If contrast material was used, they may be advised to drink plenty of water to help flush it out of their system.

How long does it take to get CT scan results? The images are typically reviewed by a radiologist, who then sends a report to the referring physician. While some results may be available quickly, especially in emergency situations, it usually takes a few days for the full report to be completed and discussed with the patient.

Comparing CT Scans to Other Imaging Techniques

While CT scans are a powerful diagnostic tool, they are not the only imaging technique available to healthcare providers. Understanding how CT scans compare to other imaging methods can help patients and healthcare providers choose the most appropriate diagnostic approach.

CT Scans vs. X-rays

CT scans and traditional X-rays both use ionizing radiation to create images of the body’s internal structures. However, CT scans offer several advantages over conventional X-rays:

• 3D imaging capabilities
• Higher resolution and detail
• Better visualization of soft tissues
• Ability to detect smaller abnormalities

When are X-rays preferred over CT scans? Despite the advantages of CT scans, X-rays remain useful for certain applications, such as:

• Initial screening for bone fractures
• Evaluating lung conditions
• Dental imaging
• Situations where lower radiation exposure is preferred

CT Scans vs. MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is another advanced imaging technique that provides detailed images of the body’s soft tissues. Unlike CT scans, MRI does not use ionizing radiation but instead relies on strong magnetic fields and radio waves.

Key differences between CT scans and MRI include:

• CT scans are generally faster and more widely available
• MRI provides better soft tissue contrast
• CT scans are superior for imaging bone structures
• MRI is preferred for neurological and musculoskeletal imaging

How do doctors decide between CT and MRI? The choice between CT and MRI depends on various factors, including the specific condition being investigated, the urgency of the diagnosis, and any contraindications for either technique. In some cases, both CT and MRI may be used complementarily to provide a comprehensive evaluation.

Advancements in CT Technology: Improving Diagnosis and Patient Care

The field of CT imaging continues to evolve, with ongoing advancements aimed at improving image quality, reducing radiation exposure, and expanding the applications of this technology. These innovations are enhancing diagnostic capabilities and patient care across various medical specialties.

Low-Dose CT Scans

One of the primary concerns with CT scans has been the radiation exposure associated with the procedure. In response, manufacturers have developed low-dose CT protocols that maintain image quality while significantly reducing radiation exposure.

What are the benefits of low-dose CT scans? Low-dose CT scans offer several advantages:

• Reduced radiation exposure for patients
• Increased safety for patients requiring frequent scans
• Expanded use in screening programs, such as lung cancer screening
• Improved public perception and acceptance of CT imaging

Dual-Energy CT

Dual-energy CT is an advanced technique that uses two different energy levels to create images. This technology offers several benefits over conventional CT scans:

• Improved tissue characterization
• Enhanced contrast resolution
• Reduced artifacts from metal implants
• Ability to create virtual non-contrast images, potentially reducing the need for multiple scans

How does dual-energy CT improve diagnosis? By providing additional information about tissue composition and material properties, dual-energy CT can help radiologists differentiate between various types of tissues and abnormalities more accurately. This can lead to more precise diagnoses and better treatment planning.

Artificial Intelligence in CT Imaging

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms into CT imaging is revolutionizing the field. AI applications in CT imaging include:

• Automated image reconstruction and enhancement
• Faster and more accurate image analysis
• Detection and characterization of abnormalities
• Predictive modeling for disease progression and treatment response

What role will AI play in the future of CT imaging? As AI technology continues to advance, it is expected to play an increasingly important role in improving the efficiency and accuracy of CT image interpretation. This could lead to earlier detection of diseases, more personalized treatment plans, and ultimately, better patient outcomes.

In conclusion, CT scans, whether referred to as CAT scans or CT scans, remain a cornerstone of modern medical imaging. Their ability to provide detailed, cross-sectional images of the body’s internal structures makes them an invaluable tool for diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring across a wide range of medical conditions. As technology continues to advance, we can expect CT imaging to become even more precise, safer, and more widely accessible, further enhancing its role in improving patient care and outcomes.

CAT Scan vs. CT Scan: Are They the Same Procedure?

CAT Scan vs. CT Scan:

What’s the Difference?

Medicine is a field with countless acronyms. Two that can be confusing are CAT scan and CT scan. Sometimes thought to be different types of diagnostic tests, they actually refer to the same X-ray procedure. CAT stands for “computed axial tomography” and CT is simply “computed tomography.” CAT scan was the first of the two terms to be used; CT scan has become more common in recent years. These two procedures are the same, though.

What is a CT Scan For?

A CT scan produces images using an X-ray tube that travels 360 degrees around your body. As it moves, it gathers information from multiple angles to create cross-sectional images.

Doctors order CT scans for a number of reasons, including to:

• Look for bone and joint problems such as complex fractures and tumors
• Detect masses and spots associated with conditions like heart disease, cancer and emphysema
• Locate clots, tumors, infection or fluid buildup
• Check for internal injuries and bleeding following a traumatic event like a car accident
• Provide information in preparation for a surgery, biopsy or other procedure
• Compare images taken over a period of time to gauge the effectiveness of a treatment such as the chemotherapy or radiation used to shrink a tumor

In some cases, what’s called a CT scan “with contrast” is needed. With this procedure, the technician performing the procedure inserts a catheter into one of your arms in order to administer a special dye called contrast material. This dye makes it easier for the scan to create a crisp image of tissues and organs that are less dense than bone and therefore may not show up as clearly.

The detail in a CT scan with contrast may make it the preferred approach over other imaging techniques in some instances. For example, a CT scan can provide better information on the bones of the spine than either a standard X-ray or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan, which is helpful when assessing conditions that affect the vertebrae and other bones.

There are some instances when a CT scan isn’t advisable. If you’re pregnant or think you may be pregnant, you should tell your doctor. There is also a weight limit for receiving a CT scan.

A CT Scan is a Pain-Free Procedure That Produces Crucial Images

Other than the poke if contrast material is needed, a CT scan is completely painless and provides your care team with critically important information on your condition. For many patients, the only unpleasant aspect of the scan is the feeling of being enclosed in the CT scan machine. However, that temporary discomfort is worth the valuable information the procedure produces.

At Baptist Health, the procedure takes place as follows:

• Preparation. How you prepare for your CT scan will depend on the type of scan performed. If your abdomen/pelvis, chest or head is being scanned with contrast, you may be instructed not to eat or drink for several hours prior to your exam. You may also have to drink a contrast medium or have it administered intravenously. If you’re having a head scan with no contrast, you can eat up until the time of the exam, and no liquid or intravenous contrast medium is required.
• Exam. A CT scan typically takes 15-30 minutes. A certified technologist helps you get positioned on the scan table, which is then moved into the machine. You’ll hear humming as the machine works and the table may move as different images are captured. You may also receive instructions, such as holding your breath for a short time, from the technologist, who observes the entire test and communicates with you through two-way microphones.
• Side effects. Depending on the type of exam, afterward, you may experience a metallic taste in your mouth (if contrast dye is used), fatigue, headache, weakness or constipation.
• Follow-up. After your exam, a radiologist (a doctor that specializes in imaging) reviews the images and sends a report to your physician who will discuss it with you at your next appointment.

Get a CT Scan at Baptist Health

Learn more about CT scans available from Baptist Health, along with pre-and post-exam expectations.

Learn More.

Categories

• Baptist Health

Tags:

• Baptist Health Imaging
• CAT Scan
• CT Scan
• Diagnostics
• Imaging
• Medical Imaging

Related Blog Articles

• 
  

  CT Scan vs X-Ray

  
  
  Learn More

  
  

• 
  

  MRI vs. fMRI: What Are the Differences?

  
  
  Learn More

  
  

• 
  

  Are There Differences Between a Sonogram vs. an Ultrasound?

  
  
  Learn More

  
  

Let’s Stay in Touch

Sign up to receive Baptist Health emails to learn more about your health from our blog, e-newsletter, and Flourish. Or follow one of our social media accounts.

Sign Me Up

CT scan or CAT scan: How does it work?

A computerized tomography (CT) or computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan combines data from several X-rays to produce a detailed image of structures inside the body.

CT scans produce 2-dimensional images of a “slice” or section of the body, but the data can also be used to construct 3-dimensional images. A CT scan can be compared to looking at one slice of bread within a whole loaf.

CT scans are used in hospitals worldwide.

A CT scanner emits a series of narrow beams through the human body as it moves through an arc.

This is different from an X-ray machine, which sends just one radiation beam. The CT scan produces a more detailed final picture than an X-ray image.

The CT scanner’s X-ray detector can see hundreds of different levels of density. It can see tissues within a solid organ.

This data is transmitted to a computer, which builds up a 3-D cross-sectional picture of the part of the body and displays it on the screen.

Sometimes, a contrast dye is used because it can help show certain structures more clearly.

For instance, if a 3-D image of the abdomen is required, the patient may have to drink a barium meal. The barium appears white on the scan as it travels through the digestive system.

If images lower down the body are required, such as the rectum, the patient may be given a barium enema. If blood vessel images are the target, a contrast agent will be injected into the veins.

The accuracy and speed of CT scans may be improved with the application of spiral CT, a relatively new technology. The beam takes a spiral path during the scanning, so it gathers continuous data with no gaps between images.

CT is a useful tool for assisting diagnosis in medicine, but it is a source of ionizing radiation, and it can potentially cause cancer.

The National Cancer Institute advise patients to discuss the risks and benefits of CT scans with their doctors.

Share on PinterestA CT scan can detect abnormalities in the soft tissue.

It is useful for obtaining images of:

• soft tissues
• the pelvis
• blood vessels
• lungs
• brain
• abdomen
• bones

CT is often the preferred way of diagnosing many cancers, such as liver, lung, and pancreatic cancers.

The image allows a doctor to confirm the presence and location of a tumor, its size, and how much it has affected nearby tissue.

A scan of the head can provide important information about the brain, for instance, if there is any bleeding, swelling of the arteries, or a tumor.

A CT scan can reveal a tumor in the abdomen, and any swelling or inflammation in nearby internal organs. It can show any lacerations of the spleen, kidneys, or liver.

As a CT scan detects abnormal tissue, it is useful for planning areas for radiotherapy and biopsies, and it can provide valuable data on blood flow and other vascular conditions.

It can help a doctor assess bone diseases, bone density, and the state of the patient’s spine.

It can also provide vital data about injuries to a patient’s hands, feet, and other skeletal structures. Even small bones are clearly visible, as well as their surrounding tissue.

CT versus MRI

The main differences between CT and MRI are:

• A CT scan uses X-rays, but an MRI uses magnets and radio waves.
• Unlike an MRI, a CT scan does not show tendons and ligaments.
• MRI is better for examining the spinal cord.
• A CT scan is better suited to cancer, pneumonia, abnormal chest x-rays, bleeding in the brain, especially after an injury.
• A brain tumor is more clearly visible on MRI.
• A CT scan shows organ tear and organ injury more quickly, so it may be more suitable for trauma cases.
• Broken bones and vertebrae are more clearly visible on a CT scan.
• CT scans provide a better image of the lungs and organs in the chest cavity between the lungs.

The patient may need to abstain from food, and possibly drink, for a specific period before the scan.

On the day

In most places, the patient will need to undress, usually down to their underwear, and put on a gown that the health center will provide. Avoid wearing jewelry.

If the hospital does not provide a gown, the patient should wear loose-fitting clothes free of metal buttons and zippers.

Some patients may have to drink a contrast dye, or the dye may be given as an enema, or injected.This improves the picture of some blood vessels or tissues.

Any patient who has an allergy to contrast material should tell the doctor beforehand. Some medications can reduce allergic reactions to contrast materials.

As metal interferes with the workings of the CT scanner, the patient will need to remove all jewelry and metal fastenings.

During the scan

The patient will need to lie down on a motorized examination table that slides into a doughnut-shaped CT scanner machine.

In most cases, the patient will lie on their back, facing up. But, sometimes, they may need to lie facedown or sideways.

After one x-ray picture, the couch will move slightly, and then the machine will take another image, and so on. The patient needs to lie very still for the best results.

During the scan, everybody except for the patient will leave the room. An intercom will enable two-way communication between the radiographer and the patient.

If the patient is a child, a parent or adult might be allowed to stand or sit nearby, but they will have to wear a lead apron to prevent radiation exposure.

Share on PinterestThe doctor should explain why the scan is needed, any other options available, and the pros and cons of having a CT scan.

A CT scan involves a small, targeted dose of radiation.

These levels of radiation, even in people who have undergone several scans, has not proven to be harmful.

The chance of developing cancer as the result of a CT scan is thought to be less than 1 in 2,000.

The amount of radiation involved is estimated to be around the same as a person would be exposed to in a space of between several months and several years of natural exposure in the environment.

A scan is only given if there is a clear medical reason to do so. The results can lead to treatment for conditions that could otherwise be serious. When the decision is taken to perform a scan, doctors will ensure that the benefits outweigh any risk.

Problems that could possibly arise from radiation exposure include cancer and thyroid issues.

This is extremely unlikely in adults, and also unlikely in children. However, are more susceptible to the effects of radiation. This does not mean that health issues will result, but any CT scans should be noted on the child’s medical record.

In some cases, only a CT scan can show the required results. For some conditions, an ultrasound or MRI might be possible.

Can I have a CT scan if I am pregnant?

Any woman who suspects she may be pregnant should tell her doctor beforehand, because there is a risk that the x-rays could harm the fetus.

Citing the American College of Radiography, the American Pregnancy Association (APA) point out that “No single diagnostic x-ray has a radiation dose significant enough to cause adverse effects in a developing embryo or fetus.”

However, the APA notes that CT scans are not recommended for pregnant women, “Unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risk. ”

CT scans and breastfeeding

If a lactating, or breastfeeding, mother needs an iodinated intravenous dye for contrast, she should avoid breastfeeding for about 24 hours as may pass into the breast milk.

I have claustrophobia: Can I have a CT scan?

A patient who has claustrophobia should tell their doctor or radiographer beforehand. The patient may be given an injection or tablet to calm them down before the scan.

Your health care provider will usually be able to recommend a suitable facility for a scan. You can check if a radiologist is accredited by searching on the website of the American College of Radiology.

Use of MRI and CT for pets

MRI and CT

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-ray computed tomography (CT) are methods of examining various organs by computer-assisted reconstruction of sliced ​​or 3D images. Currently, these are one of the most accurate methods for diagnosing structural disorders of bones, joints, brain, blood vessels, internal organs, and soft tissues in animals.

MRI – what is it

Magnetic resonance imaging is a complex highly informative diagnostic method based on the phenomenon of nuclear magnetic resonance of hydrogen atoms in the cells of the body. With MRI pulses in a magnetic field, vibrations of hydrogen atoms are received in the form of echo signals, which are converted into a picture by means of a computer program. This image can be in different planes. Analysis of these images helps establish the diagnosis. X-ray or other types of ionizing radiation are not used in MRI, only a magnetic field.

When MRI is used for animal diagnostics

Animal MRI is most commonly used for effective soft tissue assessment. For example, studies of the organs of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord), spine and ligamentous and muscular systems (musculoskeletal system), as well as organs of the small pelvis and abdominal cavity. MRI for dogs allows you to assess the structure of the soft tissues of internal organs, identify developmental disorders, traumatic changes, tumors, etc. (photo 1, 2).

What is CT

Computed tomography is one of the most modern methods of X-ray diagnostics. A CT scanner is a coil (gantry) into which the patient enters during the examination, located on the table. The gantry rotates the source or sources generating radiation around the patient, then the x-ray image data is processed by a computer and an x-ray image is obtained. Scanning the patient’s body with x-rays from all sides at different angles, a CT scanner creates a layered x-ray image of the internal organs.

When to use CT

This examination method is well established for assessing bone and cartilage structures, tumors and fluids. CT in animals is widely used to diagnose bone damage, trauma and bleeding. It is used as a method of angiography and can evaluate the excretory (excretory) properties of organs (photo 3, 4, 5, 6).

What is the difference between MRI and CT

The main difference between MRI and CT lies in the different physical phenomena used in the devices. In the case of CT, this is X-ray radiation, which gives an idea of ​​the physical state of a substance, and in the case of MRI, it is a constant magnetic field and radio frequency electromagnetic radiation, which gives information about the chemical structure of tissues. These methods combine the possibility of layer-by-layer tissue scanning.

Both methods are widely used in veterinary medicine in patients with neurological problems, but there is a particular difference. On MRI in dogs, the structures of the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nerves are well visualized, while on CT they are not so well visualized. On CT, the vertebrae themselves, intervertebral discs and spinal canals are well visualized.

Both methods additionally include the possibility of contrasting. Injected contrast agents can accumulate in the pathological tissue and improve the visualization of the necessary structures. This is especially true in the diagnosis of tumors of various localization.

CT is preferred for diagnosing lung pathologies.

Before prescribing a study, it is necessary to understand which of the methods will be most informative and useful to a specialist. In some cases, it is necessary to use MRI and CT at the same time. These techniques require general anesthesia in animals, and therefore some patients may have contraindications to anesthesia. Metal objects (constructions for osteosynthesis, pacemakers) are a contraindication to MRI.

Dear pet owners! At the moment, MRI and CT diagnostics are not performed at the veterinary center of Dr. Vorontsov. If necessary, we send these studies to other institutions. We review the brought pictures and records to make a diagnosis.

CT for animals in St. Petersburg

Accurate diagnosis in a few minutes

the animal may deteriorate rapidly.

CT gives a unique chance – in just a couple of minutes
using special protocols, we obtain comprehensive information about
condition of bones, central nervous system, internal organs, soft
tissues, vessels with minimal radiation exposure, we find out the cause of the disease
and immediately begin treatment.

CT scan at the PRIDE veterinary center is:

Accurate diagnosis

for one anesthesia

Only we do CT and MRI at the same time. No need for an accurate diagnosis
to go and overload the pet with drugs.

Animal research

weighing from 300 g to 120 kg

We select an individual level of radiation exposure for each pet.

Biopsy under

CT control

We immediately do a “targeted” biopsy of the area where the changes were found.

Research of any

difficulty level

Including contrast to improve diagnostic accuracy.

3D view

for more precision

Special protocols enable us to carry out complex examinations of the central
nervous system, blood vessels, internal organs.

Automatic

dose control

Independent of the area to be examined, via software
CARE Dose4D. Radiation exposure reduced by 68%.

Comfort during

examinations and after

Each examination is carried out with the participation of an anesthesiologist, he continuously monitors
the state of the animal.

Result control

after surgery

The doctor assesses how successful the operation was and plans further
treatment.

CT is indispensable in diagnosis:

Neoplasms – benign, malignant, metastases:

• Brain
• Internal organs: lungs, liver, pancreas, kidneys, spleen
• Bones
• Joints

Injuries – isolated and combined injuries:

• Spine
• Bones of the vault and base of the skull
• Chest
• Belly
• Limbs

Pathologies of the nervous system

• Strokes
• Post-traumatic hemorrhage
• Tumors
• Hydrocephalus
• Edema and atrophy of the brain
• Brain abscess
• Spinal cord compressions

Heart diseases

• Defects
• Camera extensions
• Scars after a heart attack
• Aneurysm
• Thrombus
• Tumors

Urological pathology

• Kidney and bladder stones
• Tumors of the genitourinary system
• Abnormalities of renal hypoplasia, hydronephrosis, ectopic ureters

Vascular diseases

• Thrombosis
• Emboli
• Aneurysm
• Portosystemic shunts
• Development options

Orthopedic diseases

• Fractures and fractures of bones
• Joint injuries
• Areas of bone destruction and sclerosis
• Herniated and protrusion of the intervertebral discs
• Arthritis and arthrosis

Anomalies of the body

• Malformations of the spine, joints, abdominal organs, urogenital
  systems

Are you looking for answers to these questions:

X-ray

• Suitable for primary diagnosis
• Only gross deviations are visible in the images
• Displays an image in one plane
• In the images, the shadows of organs and tissues are superimposed on each other, slight
  changes are not visible.

CT

• Indispensable for a quick definitive diagnosis
• Scans show lesions as small as 0.6 mm
• Produces dozens of images in various planes and modes – for bones,
  soft tissues

• Duration of the procedure – several minutes
• Radiation exposure reduced by 68%
• Areas of the body not to be examined are covered with special screens
• For sedation during the study, use lower doses of drugs,
  than for operation

• To exclude contraindications, the animal is examined before the procedure
• The doctor constantly monitors the condition – conducts an examination before the procedure,
  administers drugs, and monitors the animal until the very awakening
• All manipulations are carried out quickly and accurately

Indications and contraindications

Indications:

• Polytrauma – head, chest, abdomen, spine, limbs,
• Suspicion:
• • hemorrhage
  • “acute abdomen”
  • neoplasm
  • thrombosis and thromboembolism
  • the presence of foreign bodies, including those not visible on radiographs,
• Search for neoplasm metastases
• Bone and joint deformities
• Movement disorder
• Planning complex bone and joint surgeries

Contraindications:

• Conditions where anesthesia is contraindicated
• Renal failure for contrast administration

CT in PRIDE in numbers

100%

reliability

Thanks to the new modern device SIEMENS SOMATOM Emotion, many years of
experience and high qualification of the radiologist.