EXPLORING CT SCANS AND CT ANGIOGRAPHY: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Exploring CT Scans and CT Angiography: What You Need to Know

Exploring CT Scans and CT Angiography: What You Need to Know

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Do you know that a CT scan can create detailed images of any of your internal organs in just a few minutes to help doctors diagnose a particular condition without doubt or any invasive procedure? A CT scan is one of the powerful imaging tools that relies on X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the organs. CT angiography is the advanced form of CT scan, which is a further step and allows for visualization of blood vessels and detection of different issues like blockage of blood vessels. These two imaging techniques hold extreme importance for diagnosing a wide range of conditions, such as minor fractures or tumors within the blood vessels. 

If you are having an uncomfortable feeling under the right rib cage,  then a CT scan might help you investigate the potential cause of the pain. In this article,  you will explore what CT scans are, how they differ from CT angiography,  and the benefits of both scans. Whether you are planning for a CT scan or just simply curious about knowing it,  this guide will help you understand the process of it

What is a CT Scan? 


A CT scan is also known as a computer tomographic scan, an emerging medical imaging procedure. This imaging test involves the use of X-rays and computer technology to create detailed pictures of any part of the body. During the procedure,  the patient lies on the table while a scanner rotates around the body to capture multiple images of a specific part of the body from different angles. These images are combined with computer technology to create a 3D version of bones and organs,  and in that way, it offers a comprehensive view of a specific area, such as the lungs. These scans are a versatile tool to diagnose a wide range of health conditions in all different parts of the body, including the brain, kidneys,  and lungs.  This can also detect fractures and infections in the board. 


What is a CT Angiography?


CT angiography is a type of CT scan that helps to visualize blood vessels.  This can help detect issues such as vascular abnormalities and blockage. This scan differs from a standard CT scan because it involves the injection of contrast dye into the bloodstream to visualize the blood vessels without any interruption. The contrast dye specifically highlights blood vessels and allows the scanner to capture detailed images of the blood vessels. This advanced scan is particularly important for diagnosing different conditions such as heart disease,  pulmonary embolism,  and peripheral artery disease. The detailed images allow identify the main issue. The test is beneficial as it is a completely non-invasive procedure, and it is less risky than traditional angiography.

What is the procedure for CT scans and CT angiography?


The process of a CT scan or CT angiography is simple, and it takes only about 20 to 30 minutes. If it is an abdominal scan,  then the patient might need to fast a few hours before the scan, and you must not be wearing any metal jewelry during the scan. The scanner revolves around the body and captures detailed images of the specific part.

On the other hand, CT angiography involves the injection of a contrast dye into the bloodstream to enhance the visibility of blood vessels. The entire process is painless, but some patients often experience a warm sensation due to the contrast dye. In addition,  some patients also experience an uncomfortable feeling under the right rib cage due to the circulation of dye. Apart from these minor discomforts,  the entire process is safe and non-invasive. This scan helps to identify a range of conditions.

 

What are the benefits of CT scans and CT angiography?


Some of the benefits of CT scans and CT angiography include the following:

  • They are highly accurate and offer detailed images of different parts of the body.

  • Secondly, this scan only takes about 20 to 30 minutes, and the results also come out quickly and allow doctors to start the treatment procedure as soon as possible. 

  • The test procedures are noninvasive and do not involve the insertion of any kind of material. Thus, it is more comfortable than a surgical treatment.

  • The scan plays a critical role in detecting different conditions, such as tumors within the blood vessels of the heart and lungs. 


Conclusion 


A CT scan is one of the powerful imaging tools that relies on X-rays and computer technology to create cross-sectional images of the organs. CT angiography is the advanced form of CT scan, which is a further step and allows for visualization of blood vessels and detection of different issues like blockage of blood vessels. ViaScan of Las Colinas offers both scans. The lab also uses advanced equipment for high scan accuracy.

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