Computed Tomography

Computed Tomography provides clinicians with detailed anatomic images in cross sectional planes as well as 3 dimensional renderings. CT is like routine radiography in that it uses ionizing radiation but differs in that it uses detectors and complex computing algorithms to determine the attenuation values of the tissues present. These values are represented visually by various shades of grey. The number of shades of grey visualized can be manipulated to increase the level of detail of specific tissue types such as bone or lung.

Technologic advances have had a dramatic impact on the capabilities of modern CT scanners and have opened the door to many uses that were previously unthinkable. The increased speed of today’s scanners as well as availability of complex software programs have allowed imaging of areas such as the vascular system. CT angiography, also known as CTA, is rapidly taking its place as an important diagnostic tool in the imaging chain. CTA is quickly limiting the number of invasive diagnostic angiograms performed in radiology departments by providing many advantages over routine angiography while greatly reducing the risks such as CVA, arterial dissection, or pseudoaneurysm formation.

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