CT Scan
A CT scan, or computerized tomography scan, is a combination of several X-Ray images taken from many different angles. They create cross-sectional images, making up what is, essentially, a 3-dimensional X-Ray. CT scans take pictures of your bones, organs, and other tissues, so it allows doctors a more complete and comprehensive view of an injured area. CT imaging use radiation, just like X-Rays, but the minimal amount possible is used to reduce your risk of any side effects.
Benefits of a CT Scan
When an X-Ray is inconclusive to diagnose fracture or break, a CT scan may be used. Due to its more intensive imaging capabilities, it can help doctors see certain areas more closely and in more detail. CT scans are known for helping doctors diagnose hairline fractures and other hard-to-find injuries. CT scans don’t take very long and they are completely painless. They are very helpful in determining the location and cause of many health issues and symptoms, and they are a great tool for doctors to use in their diagnostic processes.
When Is a CT Scan Used?
It depends on your particular situation whether or not a CT scan will be utilized. You may have just an X-Ray or MRI to diagnose a break, or you may have just a CT scan to search for a hairline fracture. If you are having surgery, your doctor may order a CT scan to explore the area further to best prepare for the surgery. CT scans can detect and help monitor changes in cancer, heart disease, blood clots, excess fluid, infections, tumors, and more. They can help diagnose joint problems, determine a need for radiation, monitor the effectiveness of chemotherapy, or plan for a tumor removal surgery.
A CT Scan is Beneficial for Different Specialties
Orthopedic specialists at AICA Orthopedics rely on imaging tools for providing an accurate diagnosis and treatment program to lead to a complete recovery. Orthopedic specialists, neurologists, spinal specialists, and chiropractors alike rely upon CT scans for up to date body scans that can allow them to clearly see the root cause of pain or injury.
Orthopedic
A CT scan for knee, shoulder, or other injuries can provide more extensive information than an X-Ray. For example, a CT scan allows orthopedic specialists to look at your injured body part from various angles instead of the one angle an x-ray allows. It focuses on skeletal injuries such as fractures, broken bones, or joint problems and is a quick option for finding the source of your discomfort.
LEARN MOREInterventional Spine
CT scans are an invaluable tool for neurologists, they are also extremely helpful for spinal specialists as well. Delicate spinal injuries require attention to detail to properly locate and treat. CT scans can show minute details to help locate even the smallest of spinal fractures. CT scans are also used by interventional spinal specialists to detect herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
LEARN MORENeurology
Neurologists at AICA Orthopedics rely on CT scans to clearly show even the smallest of injuries to the skull or other parts of the body, making it an invaluable neurological tool. A CT scan can be beneficial for assessing brain damage, locating blood clots or bleeding in the brain, or detecting brain tumors. This type of imaging require little exposure to radiation and is a quick (taking only about 15 minutes to complete) way to find the source of the problem, making it a top imaging tool used by many neurologists for diagnosis and treatment.
LEARN MOREChiropractic
While x-rays are the most common form of imaging technology used by chiropractors, a CT scan may be necessary sometimes to provide a clearer, more comprehensive picture of what is causing pain or what type of injury is affecting patients. A CT scan can provide a full look at the musculoskeletal system to gain insight and understanding as to specific injuries in the body. Serious cases of osteoporosis, spinal stenosis, or scoliosis may require a CT scan to see various angles of the musculoskeletal system. With this type of imaging, chiropractors at AICA are able to provide high quality, efficient care in a short amount of time.
LEARN MOREFor precise, high tech digital imaging that can provide quality care, turn to the expert specialists at AICA Orthopedics.
Full-Service Care at AICA Orthopedics
Here at AICA Orthopedics, we are passionate about providing our patients with the best care. We believe in working as a team, alongside other specialists and medical professionals, so that you get the most comprehensive and thorough care in Atlanta. We also believe in educating our patients and joining you on your health journey, no matter what that may look like for you. We offer personalized care, and we are committed to helping you understand your options and feel supported in your recovery. If we believe you need a CT scan for any reason, we will discuss the risks and benefits with you at length, and we will answer any questions you may have about the procedure, possible diagnoses, and more.
Our staff is made up of a number of orthopedic doctors, surgeons, radiologists, and more, all of whom are committed to your health and wellness. We are here to help you, and we have proven ourselves as one of Atlanta’s most trustworthy medical clinics. We encourage you to call AICA Orthopedics today if you have a health concern, want to learn more about our services, or simply have a question about our comprehensive care. We look forward to serving you and your family.
