What Is A CAT Scan?

A CAT scan (Computed Axial Tomography), also abbreviated CT scan, is a process that uses computers to generate three-dimensional images from flat X-ray pictures. X-rays only take flat, two-dimensional scans, whereas the CAT scan takes 3D pictures. By examining 3D scans, doctors can examine a portion of the body one narrow slice at a time. This ability enables more accurate diagnosis by pinpointing specific areas that are causing the problem. The machine takes the images at many different angles around the body that produces cross-sectional pictures. The pictures are processed by a computer and recorded on a film. The recorded image is called a tomogram.

The Computed Axial Tomography refers to the tomogram sections of the body. If a patient only has a conventional X-ray of bones and a larger bone overshadows a smaller bone, the larger bone may cover the small bones, resulting in an incorrect diagnosis. In order to see all bones, the patient must turn different ways to continually move the X-ray machine. The CAT scan machine has the ability to move the X-ray beam all around the patient from hundreds of different angles. The easiest way to visualize the slices is to compare the images to a loaf of bread. Each slice enables you to see the entire surface, slice by slice, from the crust to the center of the bread.

The actual machine looks like a donut on its side. The patient lies on a table, which slowly moves through the X-ray tube (or donut hole) while the scan is being snapped slice by slice. Radiation is involved during the use of the CAT scan, so the technician who is operating the machine does so from a different room so he/she won’t be repeatedly exposed to it. Doctors usually scan only a portion of the body. After the scan is completed, the computer combines all the information from each scan. The CAT scan is a more sophisticated X-ray machine. The test is painless and offers diagnosis for a number of aliments including head traumas, osteoporosis, and cancer.

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