A1 Understand health issues page 36 Flashcards
What is the purpose of giving a contrast medium before a CT scan?
A contrast medium is given to enhance the visibility of specific organs or tissues during the CT scan, depending on the area under investigation.
How is the X-ray source used during a CT scan?
The X-ray source is rotated around the circular opening of the scanner, spreading out the X-ray beam to cover the axial plane of the patient’s body.
Why is it important for a patient to remain still during a CT scan?
It is important for the patient to remain still because movement can blur the resulting image, reducing the accuracy of the scan.
What happens to the X-ray beams as they exit the patient’s body in a CT scan?
As the X-rays exit the patient’s body, they are detected and recorded by a rotating detector opposite the X-ray source.
How are the images from a CT scan processed?
The images from a CT scan are processed by a computer, which produces cross-sectional images of the patient’s internal organs and tissues.
What is the benefit of scanning multiple axial planes in a CT scan?
Scanning multiple axial planes allows the X-ray scans to be used to create a detailed 3D image, enhancing diagnostic capabilities.
What might happen to a CT scan image if the patient moves during the scan?
If the patient moves, the resulting image may be blurred, especially at tissue boundaries like those between bone and a tumour.
How does the CT scan show differences in body tissues in the final image?
The CT scan shows different tissues as variations in brightness based on the amount of X-rays absorbed, with denser tissues appearing lighter.
