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What It Is
A diagnostic test that combines the use of x-rays with computer technology. CAT scans allow physicians to see images of specific organs inside your body.
How It's Performed
You are placed on a comfortable table, then eased into a scanner that resembles a large doughnut. Once you are inside the machine, a series of x-ray pictures are taken, as a series of x-ray beams are released from a variety of angles. Computers process the data to create cross-sectional images of your body. In some examinations, the data is used to produce a three-dimensional picture that can display organs, bones, and tissues in great detail.
What to Expect During the Exam
The exam is painless and quiet. During the exam, a technologist will talk to you and provide any necessary instructions, such as how and when to breathe. It is important to lie very still during the examination, so the test does not have to be repeated.