Computed Tomography

Computed Tomography

advanced medical imagine technique that uses x-rays and computer processing to create cross sectional images of the body

Gantry

large circular part of the scanner that houses the x-ray tube and detectors

X-ray Tube

produces x-ray

Detectors

capture x-rays that exit the patients body

IV’s and their role for CT

• IVs are needed for contrast enhanced CT scans

• contrast helps highlight blood vessels, organs and soft tissues

• often iodine based and given through IV

• Accurate and safe IV placement is essential for image quality and patient safety

What CT technologists learn:

• venipuncture techniques (starting IVs)

• choosing the right catheter size

• using a power injector safely

• identifying and managing contrast reactions

• following infection control and safety protocols

Power injector

medical device used to inject contrast into a patients vein at a controlled rate and volume

Cross sectional imaging

taking pictures of the body in thin slices

• shows one layer at a time

• each image is a slice that can be viewed individually or stacked to create 3D views

much more detail than a regular x-ray and can help find issues hidden behind other tissues

CT is better for:

• head injuries

• cancer detection

• internal bleeding

CT uses more radiation than x-ray: true or false

true

Receives CTs

• emergency patients

• inpatients

• outpatients

• elderly patients

• pediatric patients

• pre-operative patients

• oncology patients

CTs performed where?

• Hospital Radiology Departments

• Outpatient imaging centers

• Emergency rooms/trauma centers

• mobile CT units

Types of CT exams

• head ct

• chest ct

• abdomen and pelvis ct

• spine ct

• extremity ct

• CT angiography (CTA)

• Biopsies