CT Scan : Purpose, Benefits and Risks
A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a medical imaging technique that combines X-ray images taken from different angles to produce cross-sectional images of the body.
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Purposes
Diagnosis: CT scans are instrumental in diagnosing conditions such as fractures, tumours, infections, and internal bleeding.
Treatment Planning: They help healthcare professionals plan surgeries, radiation therapy, and other medical interventions.
Monitoring: CT scans are used to monitor the progression of diseases and the effectiveness of treatments over time.
Benefits
Accuracy: CT scans provide detailed images of internal structures, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Speed: They are relatively quick, producing images in a matter of minutes, which is crucial in emergency situations.
Non-invasive: Unlike some diagnostic procedures, CT scans are non-invasive and generally well-tolerated by patients.
Risks
Radiation Exposure: CT scans involve exposure to ionising radiation, which carries a small risk of causing cancer, particularly with repeated scans.
Contrast Material: In some cases, a contrast material may be injected to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels. Allergic reactions to contrast material are rare but possible.
In conclusion, CT scans play a vital role in modern medicine by providing detailed images for diagnosis and treatment planning. While they offer numerous benefits, including accuracy and speed, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with radiation exposure and contrast material. Healthcare providers carefully weigh these factors to ensure the benefits outweigh the risks for each patient.
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