If you’ve been suggested to get a CT examination of the chest – don’t worry. It’s a simple, non-invasive examination, with minimized radiation, that supports the doctor find out what’s worrying you by getting a clear depiction of the internal structures of your body. A CT (Computed Tomography) machine made by CT Scan Machine Manufacturers uses a grouping of X-rays and a computer to take pictures of the inside of your body. If you’re speculating why you can’t get an MRI examination instead of a CT for your lungs, it’s because CT examinations provide better pictures of air-filled organs like the lungs than MRI examinations, allowing radiologists and doctors to study minor alterations in lung nodules. Also, CT examinations are quicker – an important aspect because you may have to hold your breath during a lung examination to avoid indistinct pictures due to movement.
How does a CT apparatus work?
A CT scanner is like a huge donut-shaped apparatus supplied by CT Scan Machine Suppliers with a table in the mid of the donut-shaped ring. You will be requested to lie on the table, as it transfers in and out of the donut ring. This ring then alternates, taking images of the body in numerous hi-resolution slices, which allow radiologists and doctors to view segments of your organs/body more clearly. These slices are often equated to the slices of a loaf of bread – where each specific slice can be seen obviously while being part of the whole.
CT examination and radiation: Throughout the examination, qualified radiologists will be controlling the amount of radiation dose, to use the least possible radiation required. Particularly in the case of children, the radiation dose is uninterruptedly observed and attuned according to the size of the patient and the examination area. This is why it’s vital to get your scan completed from a reputed center with qualified radiologists.
New technology in CT scan: Cutting-edge CT scanners, like the multi-slice CT apparatuses made by CT Scan Machine Manufacturers, take numerous slices with just one revolution of the donut-shaped ring, making CT examinations much faster. This renders the entire examination experience more contented since patients don’t have to lie motionless on the table for long.
How must you prepare?
- Before going in for a chest/lung examination, you will be requested to remove all clothing from the waist up and change into a hospital dress
- You will be requested to remove all metallic decorations including jewelry, watches, earrings, chains, etc. – while phones and private belongings will have to be left outside
- If you need an examination with contrast, which will highlight certain inner parts of the body better, an IV cannula will be introduced into your vein – during the examination, a dye will then be vaccinated through this IV
- Women, make sure you notify the doctor if you are expectant, or think you may be expectant
- If you’re getting an examination with contrast, you may be requested to not eat or devour solids and fluids for a minimum of four hours before the examination –always ask the examination center for directions when you call to set up your appointment
The actual examination
The actual CT examination only takes 10-15 minutes – you will be requested to lie on the table and stay motionless, as the table slides in and out a few times to check your body location before the scanning method begins. Don’t fear if the nurses use bands to confine your body – this is only to avoid a recurrence of the examination since even minor movements can cause indistinct images (artifacts on the examination). Better to have the bands than go through the whole method again. Once the examination begins, you will be by yourself in the room, though, you will be in continuous communication with the staff and technician through the headset provided.
At times, during the examination, you may be asked to hold your breath, lie motionless, or even raise your hands above your head. Do follow directions as closely as conceivable to safeguard the best results. If you’re in discomfort or are anxious, and find it problematic to lie motionless, do not waver to talk to the doctors and staff – they will offer some medicine to help set you at ease.
CT and claustrophobia: Since the CT appliance is open on both sides, people do not usually feel claustrophobic. Though, if you’re still concerned about this score, do talk to the staff, and they’ll find a way to support you.
CT examination time
CT scans are usually quick, the examination may get completed in 10-15 minutes, while the pre-preparation takes 20-30 minutes. Post the examination, you may be kept under surveillance for a few more minutes, and also until the specialist checks to see if the pictures obtained are clear enough. Always recall to ask your center for a CD of the examination – this will come in handy when your doctor desires to view the pictures in detail.
