CT scan
Computed tomography scans, also known as CT scans, not only give more diagnostic information to your doctors than an X-ray – they can also save precious exam time. A CT scan can rule out a major illness or give a swift diagnosis to get you started on a treatment plan to get you back on the path to feeling better.
Learn more
What is a CT scan?
A computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging method that uses X-rays to create cross-sectional pictures of the body.
Why it's done
These scans can help diagnose tumors, hemorrhages, head injuries and bone abnormalities. Inside the CT machine, the X-ray tube circles around the patient taking pictures as it rotates. These slices can be viewed two-dimensionally or added back together to create a three-dimensional image of a body structure.
Related links
Source: Allina Health Medical Imaging
Reviewed by: Allina Health Medical Imaging
First published: 8/12/2019
Last reviewed: 8/12/2019