Full-Body CT Scans: a Powerful Tool for Early Disease Detection
Computerised tomography (CT) scans are a medical tool that uses x-rays to produce a 3D image of the entire body. Using these scans, medical professionals can build up a picture of your bones, brain, heart, lungs, GI tract and other vital organs. Doctors can use these images to detect health issues that otherwise could go unnoticed until they have become a more severe problem. Therefore, a CT scan can be a valuable medical technology for early diagnoses, but how do they work, and should you get one?
How do they Work?
CT scans use x-rays to scan bones and tissues and then process these using computer software to output a detailed 3D image of the inside of your body. They are carried out in hospitals using specialised equipment by trained operatives called radiographers. These may be done if you are admitted to the hospital or during a scheduled visit after a referral.
What CT Are Scans Used For?
CT scans have several clinical functions, but the primary use is for diagnosing conditions. CT scans are effective tools for finding issues within the body such as bone damage, internal organ damage, cancers, strokes or blood flow problems. In general, CT scans are not offered on the NHS to check for problems if you are not exhibiting any symptoms, but private options exist if you want a better view of your internal health. The full-body CT scan cost in the UK can be found here.
Additionally, such scans can be used to guide treatments for previously diagnosed problems. For example, if you have been diagnosed with cancer, a CT scan can be used to determine the size and location of the tumour before beginning radiotherapy.
Finally, CT scans can be used to monitor conditions during and after treatments. For example, if you have undergone radiotherapy, doctors may use CT scans to assess the tumour’s size in the weeks and months following the treatment.
What Happens During a Scan?
In general, during a full-body CT scan, you will be asked to flat on your back on a bed that will gradually pass through the scanner. The scanner itself is circular in shape that rotates around each segment of your body in stages as you pass through it.
CT scans are often confused with MRI scans, but unlike an MRI, your body is not entirely surrounded by a scanner during a CT scan. This means that people are much less likely to feel claustrophobic during a CT scan. However, you will still be required to lie very still and breathe normally to ensure the accuracy of the scan.
The radiographer will be located in a separate room while operating the machinery, but you will communicate with them via an intercom.
Summary
Overall, CT scans can be an excellent way to diagnose, treat and monitor internal conditions. Using x-rays in the configuration used by the scanner allows medical professionals to build a detailed picture of your internal organs and bones. Ultimately, this can lead to better treatment of diseases like cancer and help track recovery from such conditions.
