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- $Unique_ID{BRK00807}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{How Does a CT Test Work?}
- $Subject{CAT scan CT Special Procedures procedure lab Laboratory Tests test
- computer Computerized Tomography pencil-thin x-ray beams video screens axial}
- $Volume{P-0}
- $Log{}
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- Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- How Does a CT Test Work?
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- QUESTION: Can you provide me some information about a CT test? Does it hurt?
- How does it work? My father was told he needed one and I am concerned.
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- ANSWER: CTs are initials that stand for Computerized Tomography. CTs produce
- pictures of a patient's head, or body, using computers to interpret the
- information obtained by x-rays. Such photos are usually used by physicians to
- pinpoint locations of blood clots, tumors, bleeding, infections, or to find
- the reason for increasing pressure on the brain.
- No pain or discomfort is experienced by the patient having a CT test.
- The only requirement is that they lie absolutely still so that sharp pictures
- may be obtained. During such tests, patients lie on a table carefully
- positioned in the middle of the area that the scanner photographs. The table
- moves slightly every few seconds, and repositions the patient. Approximately
- 10 to 15 pictures are taken during the testing time of between 30 to 60
- minutes.
- CTs produce pencil-thin x-ray beams which first are displayed on video
- screens, then are photographed. There are no known aftereffects, so normal
- activities may be resumed immediately following a CT examination.
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- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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