For decades, doctors have relied on the penetrating clarity of computed tomography or CT to enable them to visualize disease, organs and structural abnormalities deep within the body, greatly reducing the need for exploratory and other types of surgeries. Through the years, advances in the technology have made CT scanning faster, safer and more comfortable and convenient for patients, while giving physicians a valuable and versatile tool for screening, diagnosing, surgical planning, treatment and reconstruction. 

CT, also known as cat scan, uses powerful x-ray technology that circles the body as the patient, lying on a moving, flat table, passes through a very shallow tunnel, commonly referred to as the "donut." The fast moving parts of the x-ray source and detectors are within the donut and out of sight.

As the x-ray assembly rotates around the patient's body, the scanner produces images in thin slices which a computer reconstructs into sharp, three-dimensional (3D) images of the scanned body part. Doctors utilize this detailed view on the monitor to isolate small areas, view the area as a whole or manipulate the image on screen - turning it, zooming in, etc. This advanced technology enables them to confirm the presence, characteristics and/or precise location of tumors, blockages, abnormalities or other problems that may exist.

CT's ability to scan from head to toe makes it very versatile. Organs and areas of the body typically scanned with CT at Florida Hospital include:

CT3D MAP OF CARDIAC ARTERIAL ANATOMY                     

• Brain
• Heart and blood vessels
• Head and face, including sinuses
• Chest, stomach and pelvic areas
• Spine, bones and joints

CT scanners basically look alike, but can vary in speed, imaging capabilities and amount of radiation to which they expose patients. Generally, the higher the number of image "slices" a scanner produces, the more detailed are the images it makes. Florida Hospital has several types of CT systems, including the 64-slice scanner, used for cardiac CT angiography (CCTA) and other procedures requiring the highest resolution and detail to the Flash CT offering the fasted scanning speed using an extremely reduced radiation dose. Our expert radiologists consider all factors to determine the right scanning system to use for each individual to ensure the best outcome for each patient.

Safety

Radiation Risk:  Compared to other imaging modalities that utilize x-ray technology, CT scanners emit relatively high levels of radiation. This is necessary to achieve the exceptional image quality CT provides. Radiation dose varies depending on the equipment used. Other factors that affect radiation exposure include: the part of the body under study, the patient's size and the image quality required to yield successful results.

Studies suggest that exposure to x-rays may increase the risk of cancer in some patients, although there is no data showing an increased cancer risk directly attributed to CT scanning. Taking all factors into consideration, doctors have determined that in many cases the benefits of CT outweigh the risks. Caution: Exposure to radiation can cause serious harm to a developing fetus (unborn child). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant.

Allergic Reactions

Some CT procedures require the use of contrast agents. Depending on the area of study, the contrast agent is administered orally, rectally or injected intravenously. Allergic reactions to contrast agents are infrequent and generally mild, typically hives and itchiness. On rare occasions, allergic reactions can be serious, even life-threatening.

Patients with a history of heart problems, diabetes or kidney disease should tell their doctors about their history, as these conditions may increase the risk of allergic reaction. Also inform your doctor about any allergies you may have, especially if you have had a prior allergic reaction to contrast agents.

CT Scan Results

Once obtained, your CT image remains an electronic file. Florida Hospital has the most sophisticated network, viewing stations and software for processing, transmitting, reviewing and storing these electronic images.

One of our physicians, specializing in CT radiology, will examine and interpret your CT scan and create a report of his/her findings that will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor will present the results and discuss them with you.