CT scan

May 20, 2019

A computerised tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays and a computer to create
detailed images of the inside of the body
When CT scans are used

CT scans can produce detailed images of many structures inside the body,
including the internal organs, blood vessels and bones.
They can be used to:

• diagnose conditions – including damage to bones, injuries to internal organs, problems with blood flow, stroke, and cancer
• guide further tests or treatments – for example, CT scans can help determine the location, size and shape of a tumour before having radiotherapy, or allow a doctor to take a needle biopsy (where a small tissue sample is removed using a needle) or drain an abscess
• monitor conditions – including checking the size of tumours during and after cancer treatment