a type of diagnostic X-ray that views anatomical structures of the brain and spine, especially bones, soft tissues and vessels. Images are viewed in "slices".
a test during which an X-ray beam rotates around the patient, and detectors measure the amount of X-rays that go through the patient — A computer constructs a cross-sectional image of the data.
A computerized view of the body that creates images of soft tissue.
an imaging technique that uses X-rays and a computer to create a picture of the brain's tissues and structures.
Full name for the commonly used term "CT scan". CT scans use x-rays to produce images of the internal structures of the body. An excellent method for assessing the internal structures of the body. The CT scan is not a good study for assessing diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. These are tubular structures that are best evaluated by other x-ray techniques or endoscopy.
a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.
A diagnostic imaging technique in which a computer reads x-rays to create a three-dimensional map of soft tissue or bone.
a method of visualizing soft tissues of the body using X-rays. Also known as computed axial tomography or CAT scan.
(Also called a CT or CAT scan) a non-invasive procedure that takes cross-sectional images of the brain or other internal organs; to detect any abnormalities that may not show up on an ordinary x-ray.
A test that in which x-rays are used to create a picture of the body (i.e., a chest CT scan of the lungs) using a computer-controlled machine (CT scanner).
An imaging technique that uses a computer to organize the information from multiple x-ray views and construct a cross-sectional image of the part of the body being scanned. This technique is used to identify areas that may be cancer or metastases.
An x-ray that produces three-dimensional pictures of the body.
A series of cross-sectional X-rays of the brain and head; also called computerized axial tomography or CAT scan.
An X-ray procedure in which the X-ray beam moves around the body, taking pictures from different angles. These images are combined by a computer to produce a detailed cross-sectional picture of the inside of the body.
A technique in which multiple X-rays of the body are taken from different angles in a very short period of time. These images are collected by a computer to give a series of images that look like "slices" of the body. In diagnosing dementia, CT scans can reveal tumors and small strokes in the brain.
An imaging procedure that produces a three-dimensional picture of organs or structures inside the body, such as the brain.
A specialized x-ray procedure in which cross-sections of the area in question can be examined in detail. In evaluating the bile ducts, iodine-based dye is often injected intravenously. The procedure is of greatest value in diagnosing the complications of gallstones (such as abscesses, pancreatitis) rather than documenting the presence of a stone.
A series of x-ray pictures taken by a machine that encircles the body like a giant tube. Computers are then used to generate cross-sectional images of the inside of the body.
A computer-enhanced X-ray that creates a detailed visualization of a cross section of the body. Its two-dimensional, high-resolution image can be used to detect tumors, accumulations of fluid and damaged or dead tissue, and to monitor treatment. Body parts typically scanned include the head and the chest.
A diagnostic test that creates an image by computer reconstruction of x-rays; it is particularly good at defining the size of the cerebral ventricles and showing an obvious blockage. It is less effective for analysis of the posterior fossa or the spinal cord.