Fast facts on CT scans

Here are some key points about CT scans. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.

• A CT scan uses data from several X-ray images of structures inside the body and converts them into pictures.
• The technique utilizes digital geometry processing to generate 3D images.
• CT scans are a source of ionizing radiation and can cause cancer.
• A CT scanner emits a series of narrow beams through the human body, producing more detail than standard single beam X-rays.
• CT scanners are able to distinguish tissues inside a solid organ.
• Contrast dyes are sometimes used to improve the clarity of the image.
• CT scanning is particularly useful for getting detailed 3D images of certain parts of the body, such as soft tissues, blood vessels, and the brain.
• The images created are analyzed by radiologists.
• Unlike MRI scans, a CT scan uses X-rays.
• A CT scan is able to illustrate organ tear and organ injury quickly and so is often used for accident victims.