Computed Tomography (CT)

Computed Tomography (CT) is an X-ray system that produces images of various body parts, which doctors use to help diagnose and treat diseases. You may have also heard the technique called computerized tomography or computerized axial tomography (CAT scan). A CT may be required to rule out disease or to facilitate medical, surgical and other treatments for a variety of conditions.

CLIC uses our advanced GE Lightspeed 16 TM Scanner to perform all CT scans. During this procedure, the patient lies on a table that passes through our scanner. The table is positioned so that the specific body part to be scanned lies in the center of the round portion of the scanner, which is called the gantry. A tube on the gantry beams x-rays through the patient's body and into special detectors that analyze the image produced. The gantry rotates around the patient and produces a variety of images from different angles. A computer then processes the information to produce a cross-sectional image on a video screen. By moving the table in the gantry, doctors can obtain scans at different levels of the same area. CLIC can use our Vitrea 3-D Imaging Workstation to create three-dimensional computer images of the scans, which provide even more depth and increase our diagnostic capabilities.

Sometimes contrast agents are necessary with certain types of CT exams. Contrast agents are used to enhance certain organs or disease processes, which allows for more precise images. If necessary, the contrast agents may be administered orally, via I.V., or rectally, depending on the type of CT exam ordered by your physician.

Doctors use CT scans to diagnose conditions, such as tumors, infections, blood clots, and broken bones. CT scans also may be used to guide a biopsy needle into diseased tissue. In addition, it assists in treating some diseases that might otherwise require surgery. For example, doctors can use a CT scan to guide catheters (small tubes) to an abscess in the body and drain pus from the infected area.

CLIC provides the following CT imaging services:

• Head CT Scan
• IAC CT Scan
• Temporal Bone CT Scan
• Orbit CT Scan
• Sinus CT Scan
• Facial Bones CT Scan
• Neck CT Scan
• Chest CT Scan
• Abdomen CT Scan
• Pelvis CT Scan
• Renal Stone CT Scan
• CT Arteriography for Pulmonary Embolus
• CT Scan of the Extremities
• CT Aortography
• High Resolution Lung CT Scan
• Radiation Therapy Planning CT Scan
• CT Angiography of the Brain, Neck & Lower Extremities