Computed axial tomography (CAT) or computed tomography (CT) is a medical imaging technique that utilizes computer processing and x-ray technology to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body. It involves a series of x-ray images taken from different angles around a person's body, which are then processed by a computer to create a three-dimensional image of the targeted area.
The process of CAT scans involves the patient being positioned on a movable table that slowly moves through a doughnut-shaped machine called a gantry. The gantry contains an x-ray tube that rotates around the patient, emitting x-rays through the body. Special detectors on the opposite side of the gantry capture the x-rays that pass through the body, creating a profile of the internal structures. This data is then processed by a computer to generate a detailed cross-sectional image, or "slice," of the body part being examined. Multiple slices can be obtained by moving the table through the gantry, which enables the creation of a complete 3D image.
Computed axial tomographies provide healthcare professionals with valuable information about the patient's anatomy, helping to detect, diagnose, and monitor a wide range of conditions, including cancers, bone fractures, cardiovascular diseases, and internal injuries. CAT scans are particularly useful in examining soft tissues, blood vessels, and bones simultaneously. They have become an integral tool in modern medicine due to their noninvasive nature, high level of detail, and ability to capture images from different angles, producing highly accurate results.
Despite being an invaluable imaging technique, the use of CAT scans involves exposure to ionizing radiation, which may pose risks to patients. Consequently, medical professionals carefully consider the benefits versus risks when recommending or performing computed axial tomographies.
