Are CAT scans and CT scans different procedures. How do these imaging techniques work. What are the common uses of CT scans in medical diagnostics. What should patients expect during a CT scan procedure. How do CT scans compare to other imaging methods.

The Truth Behind CAT and CT Scans: Demystifying Medical Imaging Terminology

In the world of medical imaging, acronyms abound, often leading to confusion among patients. Two terms that frequently cause misunderstanding are CAT scan and CT scan. Despite their different names, these procedures are actually identical.

CAT stands for “computed axial tomography,” while CT is an abbreviation for “computed tomography.” The term CAT scan was initially used when the technology was first introduced, but CT scan has become more prevalent in recent years. Regardless of which term is used, they refer to the same advanced imaging technique.

The Evolution of Terminology in Medical Imaging

The shift from CAT to CT in medical jargon reflects the evolution of the technology and the simplification of medical terminology. The word “axial” was dropped as it became redundant, given that all tomography scans are axial by nature. This change in nomenclature, however, did not alter the fundamental principles or capabilities of the imaging procedure.

How CT Scans Work: A Deep Dive into Advanced Medical Imaging

CT scans employ a sophisticated process to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body. The procedure involves an X-ray tube that rotates 360 degrees around the patient, gathering information from multiple angles. This data is then processed by a computer to generate highly detailed, three-dimensional images of internal structures.

The Technical Marvel of CT Imaging

What sets CT scans apart from conventional X-rays? Unlike traditional X-rays that produce flat, two-dimensional images, CT scans offer a more comprehensive view. They can display bones, soft tissues, and blood vessels all in a single image, providing physicians with a wealth of information about a patient’s internal anatomy.

• CT scans use X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images
• The X-ray tube rotates around the patient, capturing data from multiple angles
• Advanced computer algorithms reconstruct the data into high-resolution 3D images
• CT scans can differentiate between various types of tissue, offering superior diagnostic capabilities

The Versatility of CT Scans: Common Applications in Modern Medicine

CT scans have become an indispensable tool in modern medicine, offering a wide range of diagnostic applications. Physicians order CT scans for numerous reasons, each tailored to specific medical concerns and diagnostic needs.

Diagnosing Bone and Joint Problems

CT scans excel at visualizing complex fractures and bone tumors. The detailed images allow orthopedic specialists to assess the extent of injuries and plan appropriate treatments.

Detecting Masses and Abnormalities

From heart disease to cancer and emphysema, CT scans can reveal masses and spots associated with various conditions. This capability makes them invaluable in early detection and monitoring of diseases.

Identifying Clots, Tumors, and Infections

CT scans can locate blood clots, tumors, infections, or fluid buildup in different parts of the body. This information is crucial for timely intervention and treatment planning.

Assessing Internal Injuries

In cases of trauma, such as car accidents, CT scans can quickly check for internal injuries and bleeding. This rapid assessment can be life-saving in emergency situations.

Surgical Planning and Treatment Monitoring

CT scans provide essential information for surgical planning and can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

CT Scans with Contrast: Enhancing Diagnostic Clarity

In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend a CT scan “with contrast.” This variation of the standard CT procedure involves the administration of a special dye, known as contrast material, to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels.

How Does Contrast Material Work?

Contrast material is typically iodine-based and is administered either orally or intravenously, depending on the area being examined. This dye temporarily changes how X-rays interact with the body, allowing for clearer visualization of blood vessels, organs, and other structures that might otherwise be difficult to see.

• Contrast material can highlight specific areas of the body
• It’s particularly useful for examining blood vessels and soft tissues
• The dye is typically eliminated from the body within 24 hours
• Patients with certain allergies or kidney problems may not be eligible for contrast CT scans

CT Scans vs. Other Imaging Techniques: When is CT the Preferred Choice?

While there are various medical imaging techniques available, CT scans offer unique advantages in certain situations. Understanding when CT is the preferred choice can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions about diagnostic procedures.

CT Scans vs. Standard X-rays

CT scans provide significantly more detail than standard X-rays, especially when it comes to soft tissue structures. While X-rays are excellent for basic bone imaging, CT scans offer a comprehensive view of bones, organs, and blood vessels simultaneously.

CT Scans vs. MRI

Both CT and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans produce detailed images of the body, but they use different technologies. CT scans are generally faster and better at imaging bone, lung, and blood vessel details. MRI, on the other hand, excels at soft tissue imaging and doesn’t use ionizing radiation.

When CT Scans Shine

CT scans are particularly valuable for:

• Emergency situations requiring rapid diagnosis
• Detailed bone and joint imaging
• Lung and chest imaging
• Detecting internal bleeding
• Guiding biopsies and other interventional procedures

The CT Scan Experience: What Patients Can Expect

Understanding the CT scan procedure can help alleviate anxiety and ensure a smooth experience for patients. While the specifics may vary depending on the facility and the type of scan, there are general steps that most CT examinations follow.

Preparation for a CT Scan

Preparation requirements depend on the type of CT scan being performed. For some scans, particularly those involving the abdomen or pelvis, patients may be asked to fast for several hours before the exam. In cases where contrast material is used, additional preparations may be necessary.

During the CT Scan Procedure

The actual CT scan typically takes between 15 to 30 minutes. Patients lie on a table that moves into the CT scanner, which resembles a large donut. The machine makes a humming noise as it rotates around the body, capturing images. Patients may be asked to hold their breath briefly at certain points to ensure clear images.

After the CT Scan

Following the scan, patients can usually resume their normal activities immediately. If contrast material was used, drinking plenty of fluids can help flush it out of the system. Some patients may experience minor side effects such as a metallic taste in the mouth or mild headache, but these typically resolve quickly.

Safety Considerations and Limitations of CT Scans

While CT scans are generally safe and provide invaluable diagnostic information, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and limitations associated with the procedure.

Radiation Exposure in CT Scans

CT scans use ionizing radiation to produce images. While the radiation dose from a single CT scan is generally low, it’s higher than that of a standard X-ray. Healthcare providers weigh the benefits of the diagnostic information against the potential risks of radiation exposure when ordering CT scans.

Pregnancy and CT Scans

Pregnant women or those who suspect they might be pregnant should inform their healthcare provider before undergoing a CT scan. In many cases, alternative imaging methods that don’t use ionizing radiation, such as ultrasound or MRI, may be recommended for pregnant patients.

Weight Limitations

CT scanners have weight limits, typically around 450 pounds (204 kg). Patients exceeding this weight may need to explore alternative imaging options or seek facilities with specialized equipment designed for larger individuals.

Contrast Material Allergies

Some patients may have allergies to the iodine-based contrast materials used in certain CT scans. It’s crucial to inform healthcare providers of any known allergies before the procedure. In some cases, premedication or alternative imaging methods may be necessary.

By understanding these safety considerations, patients and healthcare providers can make informed decisions about the use of CT scans in diagnostic procedures, ensuring the best possible outcomes while minimizing potential risks.

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.

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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.