CT (Computed Tomography) Scan

Used by Doctors to mostly detect disease and injuries, CT or Computed Tomography Scan uses a series of X-rays and a computer to form detailed images of one’s bones and tissues. It is a non-invasive procedure and is painless.

For a CT Scan one needs to lie down on a table that slowly slides into the scanner. It then provides detailed clear pictures of the desired body organs, muscles or bones.

What is a CT scan and why is it done!

CT Scan is a type of imaging that uses X-ray techniques to create detailed images of the body and furthermore with the help of a computer cross-sectional images are created, also known as slices, of the desired bone, blood vessel or soft tissue. The images derived from a CT Scan are more detailed than a simple X-ray.

A CT scan has multiple uses from diagnosing disease or injury to helping Doctors in planning medical, surgical or radiation treatment.

The images derived from a CT scan are a combination of multiple X-ray pictures taken from various angles to create a 3D image. This lets the Doctor see each part clearly and is hence much more detailed than a normal X-ray.

You may be suggested to go for a CT scan for many reasons. For instance, a CT scan can help:

• To diagnose muscle and bone state, like bone tumors and breaks, also commonly known as fractures.
• Locate a tumor, infection or blood clot.
• Guide in procedures like surgery, biopsy and radiation therapy.
• Analyse the progress in the condition of patients in cases of cancer, heart disease, lung nodules and liver masses.
• Help in finding injuries and bleeding inside the body that might happen after a trauma.

CT scans can detect abnormalities like tumors, injuries and diseases. For instance:

• Pneumonia and emphysema
• Heart disease
• Blood clots
• Bowel disorders (appendicitis, diverticulitis, blockages, Crohn’s disease)
• Kidney stones
• Brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal bleeding

How does one prepare for a scan?

Your trusted diagnostic lab — offering the best CT Scan services in Lusaka — will tell you everything you need to know before a CT scan. Here are some common guidelines one can follow:

• Schedule your appointment beforehand and arrive a little early to avoid delay.
• Wear comfortable clothes for the CT Scan and remove all metal jewelry. You might be provided with a gown for the CT Scan.

Sometimes your provider might use contrast that helps to make certain tissues, organs or blood vessels easier to see. In case a contrast is being used, the provider will inject the contrast (dye) into your vein through an IV. Interestingly, at Sanket Diagnostic for CT Scan in Lusaka, we use high-quality contrast that has no effect on the kidney and you can simply skip your creatinine test.

What to expect when you go for a CT Scan?

When one goes for a CT Scan test, the patient lies on the back on a table (like a bed). When the CT scan begins:

1. The bed slides into the machine. The patient needs to stay as still as possible.
2. The scanner will take pictures of the area that needs to be scanned.
3. When the scan is over, the table slides out of the scanner.
4. A trained technologist will be present for the entire CT Scan.

How long does a CT scan take?

CT scans usually take approximately 30–40 minutes, most of the time is for preparation. The CT scan itself usually takes fewer than 4–5 minutes.

Are there risks or side effects?

CT scans are safe. Similar to X-rays, CT scans use a minimal amount of ionizing radiation to capture images. The level of radiation you’re exposed to is comparatively very less. One should definitely talk to the healthcare provider to make informed decisions about your CT Scan.

What happens after a CT scan?

It is safe to go home after a CT scan and resume normal activities.

The images are then analyzed by a Radiologist and the findings are explained.

How much time does it take to get the results?

Approximately 24 to 48 hours to get the results of your CT scan. In an emergency setting, and if the provider is informed beforehand, results can be provided in an hour or so.

FAQ’s

Can a CT scan detect cancer?

Yes. CT scans detect cancer because they show tumors, abnormal growths or changes in your organs that could be cancer. Providers also use CT to see if cancer has spread or if treatment is working.

Is a CT scan safe during pregnancy?

One should inform the provider about pregnancy. In the case that CT scans are of the pelvis and abdomen, there are chances of the fetus getting exposed to radiation, but it usually isn’t harmful. CT scans of other parts of the body have almost no exposure to the fetus.

A Note from Sanket Diagnostics

Sometimes a CT Scan can be overwhelming. One should always choose a Diagnostic Lab that offers CT Scan services with high-quality contrast. At Sanket Diagnostic, we provide all types of CT Scan in Lusaka and use contrast that has no effect on the kidney. You can also get reporting within 2 hours by an experienced radiologist team. Being ranked as one of the best Diagnostic Labs in Zambia, we are glad to provide CT Scan services in Zambia.