8.4.3 CT Scans

• What is a Computed Tomography (CT) scan?

  Imaging technique using X-rays
• A CT scan uses X-rays to produce cross-sectional images of the brain
• CT scans are effective in identifying tumors, hemorrhages, fractures, and other abnormalities.
• What is a major drawback of CT scans?

  Use of ionizing radiation
• Soft tissues are not visualized as clearly in CT scans compared to MRI
• CT scans are less detailed for soft tissue imaging than MRI scans.
• Why are CT scans considered cost-effective compared to MRI?

  Lower operational costs
• During a CT scan, the patient is required to remain still
• Steps in the working principle of CT scans

  1️⃣ X-ray tube rotates around the patient's head

  2️⃣ Detectors measure radiation

  3️⃣ Computer processes the data

  4️⃣ Contrast agents may enhance visibility
• Match the component of a CT scanner with its function:

  X-ray Tube ↔️ Emits X-rays

  Detectors ↔️ Measures radiation

  Gantry ↔️ Houses the X-ray tube

  Patient Table ↔️ Moves the patient
• What type of images do CT scans produce?

  Cross-sectional images
• CT scans are ideal for emergency situations due to their speed and availability.
• What does a Computed Tomography (CT) scan use to produce detailed images of the brain?

  X-rays
• CT scans are useful for identifying tumors, hemorrhages, and fractures
• CT scans visualize soft tissues as clearly as MRI scans

  False
• Steps in the working principle of CT scans

  1️⃣ X-ray tube rotates around the head

  2️⃣ Detectors measure the amount of radiation

  3️⃣ Data is processed to create images

  4️⃣ Contrast agents may enhance visibility
• Contrast agents are sometimes used in CT scans to enhance the visibility of specific structures
• Match the CT scanner component with its function:

  X-ray Tube ↔️ Emits X-rays

  Detectors ↔️ Measures radiation

  Gantry ↔️ Houses X-ray tube

  Computer System ↔️ Processes data

  Patient Table ↔️ Moves the patient
• What is the function of the X-ray tube in a CT scanner?

  Emits X-rays
• The rotating frame housing the X-ray tube and detectors in a CT scanner is called the gantry
• Preparing for a CT scan ensures the best quality images for diagnosis
• Steps in the procedure of a CT scan

  1️⃣ Position the patient

  2️⃣ X-ray tube emits radiation

  3️⃣ Detectors measure radiation

  4️⃣ Computer reconstructs images

  5️⃣ Radiologist reviews images
• During a CT scan, the X-ray tube rotates around the patient's head within the gantry
• What should a patient typically avoid eating before a CT scan?

  Fasting
• The rotating frame housing the X-ray tube and detectors in a CT scanner is called the gantry
• The computer system in a CT scanner processes data to create cross-sectional images.
• The patient table in a CT scanner moves the patient through the scanner.
• Steps to prepare for a CT scan

  1️⃣ Fast for several hours

  2️⃣ Remove metal objects

  3️⃣ Receive contrast agents (if required)
• Contrast agents are always administered intravenously before a CT scan.

  False
• During a CT scan, the patient is positioned within the gantry of the scanner.
• The X-ray tube in a CT scanner remains stationary during the scan.

  False
• Detectors in a CT scanner measure the amount of radiation that passes through the patient's brain.
• The computer system in a CT scanner reconstructs data to create cross-sectional images.
• Match the use of CT scans with their description

  Detecting Tumors ↔️ Identifying and locating brain tumors

  Identifying Hemorrhages ↔️ Detecting bleeding in the brain

  Diagnosing Fractures ↔️ Finding skull fractures

  Evaluating Stroke ↔️ Assessing acute stroke damage
• CT scans provide more detailed soft tissue images compared to MRI.

  False
• CT scans are valued for their speed and availability.
• The use of ionizing radiation in CT scans is a major limitation.
• Match the advantages and limitations of CT scans

  Quick, widely available ↔️ Uses ionizing radiation

  Good fracture detection ↔️ Less detailed soft tissue imaging

  Cost-effective ↔️ Potential allergic reactions
• MRI does not involve radiation exposure.
• CT scans are preferred in emergency situations due to their speed, while MRI is better for detailed soft tissue imaging.