What is a CT Scan?

By HealthPriceCompare - Mar 24, 2023

A computed tomography (CT) scan, also called a CAT scan, is a medical imaging diagnostic procedure that uses rotating x-ray machines to provide a detailed cross-sectional view of the inside of the body that shows soft tissue, blood vessels, and bones This powerful yet noninvasive imaging device is used to detect internal abnormalities or to monitor post treatment internal healing. Doctors order CT scans for diagnostic purposes, so they can find abnormalities in the body that are invisible from the outside.

A CT scan has many uses but is particularly well-suited to quickly examine people who may have internal injuries from car accidents or other types of trauma related injury. A CT scan can be used to visualize nearly all parts of the body and is used to diagnose disease or injury as well as to plan medical, surgical or radiation treatment.

First commercially available in 1972, Its inventors would go on to be jointly awarded the 1979 Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine.

How is the procedure done?

The procedure begins with a CT angiogram. Your doctor gives you a special dye, either in the form of an injection, an enema or a drink. This allows for a clearer projection of vessels and tissues to be evaluated. The patient lies down on a table and is slid into the scanner where they will need to lie still to get quality images. The procedure may take up to an hour.

Where can I get a CT scan?

CT scanning machines can be found at most hospitals and other inpatient facilities. They are also used in outpatient surgery centers and other facilities specializing in diagnostic imaging.

How can I save money on CT scan costs?

Visit HealthPriceCompare to compare CT scan costs. We facilitate comparison shopping for medical procedures by presenting both insurance contracted and discounted cash prices for CT scans using just three pieces of data - zip code, scan type and insurance plan. Be sure to also compare discounted cash prices - you may be surprised by how much you can save.