What can be seen on computed tomography. Computed tomography - CT

Date: 29.06.2020

The site provides reference information solely to familiarize yourself. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation of a specialist is obligatory!

Computed tomography (CT) represents one of the most informative modern methods diagnostics, exercising a layer-by-layer study of the internal structure of various objects, without disturbing the integrity of organs and tissues. It allows you to study the smallest internal structures of the internal organs, the size of which does not exceed a few millimeters. The basis of this method of diagnosis is the use of radiographic radiation to study the structure of internal organs, subject to the exponential law of weakening of that radiation itself. The first tomogram was carried out in 1972 the oncological patient with a brain tumor. Sprockets of computer tomography are Huongspild and A. KormakAwarded in 1979 by the Nobel Prize for this development.

How is computer tomography?

For the study, a special device is applied - a computer tomograph, a little resembling a barocamer design. The patient is located on the rigid table in the position of lying on the back. The table, with the patient lying on it, is slowly moving towards the chamber, where pictures are made within a few seconds.

Computer tomograph is a complex device containing a whole range of software and technical components, design and materials, for the manufacture of which are continuously improved. Since the appearance of the first tomograph ( 1973 year) To date, four generations of these devices are distinguished in the development of computer tomography. The emergence of each new generation is associated with the improvement of the design of the tomographs, with an increase in the number of projections collected simultaneously, as well as a reduction in image processing time.

Despite the fact that the receipt of the tomogram is quite a bit of time, it occurs in several stages:
1. Scanning. At this stage, a small bundle of X-ray radiation passes through the human body, thus scanning it and heading around the body along its circumference. Mounted on the opposite side of the body, radiation sensors combined into a circular system continuously convert X-rays into electrical pulses.

2. Strengthening and recording electrical signals. The pulses coming from the sensors are amplified, then their transformation occurs in a special digital code, which is further fixed in the computer's memory. This process is intermittent, since after receiving the primary ( elementary) Tomogram, the computer comes from the computer to the scanning mechanism to turn to a certain angle and write the next tomogram. When the X-ray emitter stops rotating around the body, the pulses from all sensors remain fixed in the computer's memory. This stage lasts no more than three seconds.

3. Synthesis and analysis of the resulting image. The computer easily restores the structure of the surveyed objects. Thanks to numerous digital computer technologies, you can change the scale of the resulting image, which allows you to study the necessary area of \u200b\u200bthe organ in more detail, determine its dimensions, as well as the amount, size and nature of pathologically changed areas.

When use computer tomography?

Computed tomography is used to study most organs, brains, bones, joints and even vessels. In the images, inflammatory processes, tumor education, cysts, malformations are detected. Tomography is repeatedly used to clarify the alleged disease caused by pathologies discovered using other research methods. Computer tomography allows diagnosing diseases in the early stages of their development.

1. In the study of the skull and brain, it is possible to detect bone fractures, hematomas, stroke areas, damaged blood vessels, tumor education.
2. The study of the incomplete sinuses allows you to identify the presence of sharp or chronic inflammatory processes, such as sinusitis, frontitis.
3. Tomographic studies of the neck allows you to determine the reason for the increase in the cervical lymph nodes, to identify the presence of tumors.

4. Computed tomography of the chest is used to study pathological changes in the lungs and mediastinal organs, in most cases primaryly detected during radiography.
5. Tomography of the abdominal cavity, large and small pelvis is prescribed during abdominal injuries, in a preoperative period to confirm the diagnosis.
6. Computed tomography of the spine contributes to the diagnosis of intervertebral hernia, changes in the diameter of the spinal channel, and it is also necessary during injuries.

Types of computed tomography

1. Spiral computed tomography - It is characterized by simultaneous continuous rotation around the human body of the X-ray tube, producing radiation, and the translational motion of the table with a patient directed along the vertical axis of the scan. Thus, the X-ray radiator moves around the patient's body in the spiral. This method is convenient because with it, literally in a few seconds, you can get a layer-by-layer image of a particular area of \u200b\u200bthe body. This method has become a prerequisite for the development of computer angiography, 3D radiography. With a spiral computed tomography, the time spent on the study of the patient, and, consequently, the dose of irradiation of the patient is significantly less than with a conventional consistent CT.

2. Multilayer computed tomography - differs from spiral tomography by no one, but two or more rows of detectors located around the circle. The number of rotations of the X-ray tube around the patient's body has also increased, that is, its speed of rotation. The advantage of the method is to observe the physiological processes occurring in the heart and the brain, due to the ability of this system to scan the entire body for one turnover of the X-ray tube around the patient's body. The speed and effectiveness of multi-layer computed tomography is much higher than that of previous methods.

3. Computed tomography with two X-ray sources - The tomograph used in this diagnostic method is equipped with two X-ray tubes located mutually perpendicularly. Tubes are capable of working in different modes, independently of each other. This feature makes it possible to more accurately differentiate on the resulting image of various densities in the immediate vicinity of objects.

4. Contrast reinforcement - The method is based on the use of various contrast agents, such as iodine-containing drugs. This is necessary for the most accurate differentiation of organs and tissues, as well as to recognize pathological formations from normal structures. The contrast agent can be introduced into the body in two ways: orally ( inside in the form of solutions) or intravenously. The method of administration of the drug depends on the anatomical structure of the surveyed organ or tissue. Thus, the hollow organs of the gastrointestinal tract are contrasted orally, intravenously contrast is injected to determine the degree of accumulation of the substance in tissues and organs through blood vessels.

5. Computed tomography - angiography - layered study of the images of blood vessels. For angiography, a contrast agent is introduced intravenously, which is accompanied by a whole series of scanning of a certain study area.

6. Computed tomography - Perfusion - The study method designed to determine blood over the tissues of the body, for example, brain, liver.

Indications for computer tomography

All readings can be divided into several independent groups.
1. As screening - test with: head injuries, long-term headaches, fainting, etc.
2. Emergency testimony: severe injuries, suspected stroke, damage to the main vessels, acute damage to parenchymal or hollow internal organs.
3. Planned diagnostics: It is carried out on the purpose of the attending physician to confirm the clinical diagnosis.
4. To monitor the treatment or correction.
5. As medicinal purposes: for example, conducting puncture together with computed tomography.

Contraindications

1. Tomography without contrast: pregnancy, body weight exceeding the maximum permissible for this unit.
2. Tomography with contrast: patient allergies on a contrast agent, pregnancy, severe general condition of the patient, renal and liver failure, diabetes, myeloma disease, thyroid lesions.
3. Implanted metal objects in the body are able to change the images, implanted electronic devices may fail !!!

Preparation for research

It is recommended to carry out a tomographic study of an empty stomach. For 2 - 3 days before computed tomography of the abdominal organs, it is not necessary to eat food, provoking increased gas formation in the intestines, such as dairy products, fresh vegetables, fruits, etc.

Possible complications

Since computer tomography is one of the methods of x-ray research, as a result of its implementation, the patient receives a certain dose of irradiation, although not exceeding the boundaries of the norm. Therefore, this diagnostic method should be carried out only by strict indications.

Side effects

The development of allergic reactions to the introduced contrast agents is possible.

Computed tomography - a procedure by which the layer-by-layer image of the area under study or the entire body is obtained. Unlike X-ray - the device, the tomograph gives a smaller radiation load due to the narrow beam of X-ray radiation. After scanning, the data collected by tomograph is sent to the central computer, where the processes of decryption and improve image quality occur.

Cabinet computed tomography

What do you need to do before the procedure?

To obtain the most informative pictures before computed tomography, the patient needs to take into account some common moments. Firstly, it is impossible to eat and drink in the next 4-5 hours in front of the CT, since food food causes the formation of gases in the gastrointestinal tract, which distorts the results of the study.
Secondly, the patient needs to know if he is allergic to products containing iodine (shrimp, sea fish, iodized salt, sea cabbage), since to clarify the incomprehensible diagnosis, a contrast agent may be required, which includes this element.
Immediately before the CT, you need to remove all metal products from yourself - decorations (rings, earrings), as they can affect the accuracy and informativeness of the pictures.
Before diagnosing in a department or office, where the CT passes the examiner should be carefully listening to the doctor's advice, as it will indicate some nuances that must be observed to the patient before being prepared for CT (behavior during the procedure, individual tips).

When is special training required?

For computed tomography of specific organs and patient systems, a certain preparation is required:

For CT lymphatic assemblies of the screaming space, the patient needs to drink two 200 minutes of a glass of a contrasting solution (20 milliliters of contrast are divorced by 1 liter of boiled water). The first glass can be served an hour before the procedure, and the second - immediately before tomography.
Before computed tomography of the bladder, 5 hours before, it is required to drink 200 milliliters of the contrast solution at the same concentration. Immediately before the study, the urologist empties the bladder with the help of a catheter and to introduce 150 milliliters of oxygen through it, after which it overloads the Cathheter clamp during the study (so that oxygen does not come out).
To prepare for the CT of the female abodes of the small pelvis, the patient prepare for the procedure 5 hours before, namely, he drinks a contrast mixture. Right before the procedure in the bladder, a solution consisting of a contrast agent and distilled water is introduced. For greater informative, the doctor may assign intravenous contrast (if necessary).

CT of small pelvis organs

For computed tomography of the male small pelvis organs, also 5 hours before carrying out a contrast solution. Feature - the study must be carried out with a complete bladder. The radiologist can also assign intravenous contrast.
It is necessary to know that if the patient was performed with a computer tomography of the gastrointestinal tract organs with a barium mixture, then the subsequent CT of the abdominal organ organs can be made no earlier than in 3 days.

When preparing is required?

Computer tomography can not be carried out in such cases:

If the patient has severe and complex kidney diseases.
With serious cardiovascular diseases.
Allergies to iodine-containing products, as it can provoke an allergic reaction, up to an anaphylactic shock.
Fear of closed space (claustrophobia).
Common severe patient's condition.
If the patient has a weight that tomograph cannot withstand (accurate restrictions depend on the model, you can learn directly in the institution where they want to study; as a rule to 130 kg);

Computer tomograph is designed for a certain patient weight

Children under 14 years old (only in strict indications).
If CT has already been conducted in the next 3-4 months (the exception is the state of the patient's death).

Computer tomography informative research method. It is often used in modern diagnostics, as it has many advantages. But it is not always advisable to use this procedure, because CT can be carried out only by appointing the attending physician, and compliance with these preparation rules will make a study as efficient as possible.

The method of computed tomography allows layers to explore the fabrics and organs of the human body without damaging the integrity of the skin. Comparing it with other types of surveys, it should be noted painlessness and high accuracy of the data obtained, which can operate in the future.

What is the procedure CT (computed tomography)

An examination using computed tomography is to pass the X-rays through the tissue. The rays are fixed with super-sensitive sensors, then the software translates the obtained data of the CT-study into digital format and provides further decoding and processing.

Modern tomograph is a complex complex combining mechanical parts and a computer part.

Tomogram is the result of processing several scans of the same body of the body performed at different angles. The duration of exposure to X-rays per segment should not exceed 3 seconds.

Detectors, fixing radiation, are constantly updated and improved in order to obtain an accurate picture for the smallest exposure range.

The possibilities of modern equipment allow you to obtain a maximum clear graphic image, increase it if necessary for a detailed study. CT analysis is conducted by a specialist.

Types of computed tomography

Spiral tomography - what is it?

During the spiral CT, the two subjects are performed simultaneously: the tube generating X-rays and the table on which the patient is lying.

Thus, the trajectory of the rays has the form of a spiral - hence the name of the method. The speed of the translational movement of the table may vary depending on the task.

What does the multi-sized (multi-layered) CT?

Unlike spiral, with a multi-section CT, sensors taking X-ray radiation are located in several rows. The volumetric beam allows you to get a 3D image using modern tomographs and control the processes occurring in the organs in real time.

One turnover of the X-ray tube allows you to explore the brain or heart entirely, significantly reducing the dose of irradiation and the amount of time required for the procedure.

The time for scanning (A, it means, the dose of irradiation) allows you to reduce the simultaneous use of two sources of rays. Each of the tubes is operating independently of the other. This method is most favorable to study the heart.

Diagnostics with contrasting amplification

A contrast agent containing iodine is used when conducting computed tomography for the separation of organs located very close to each other and differentiation of healthy and pathological tissues.

To examine the hollow bust organs, the contrast agent is taken orally, in other cases - administered intravenously:

with the help of a syringe, if the feed rate is not important;
bolus, hardware method, if you need to control the speed and intensity of the flow of the counterparty.

Who is shown by CT

As a study included in a set of measures to establish a cause of malaise, CT is used in injuries and injuries of the head, clinging of consciousness (without fainting states), migranes, as well as for surveys of the lungs in suspected oncology.

In the threat of life, a computer tomogram allows diagnosing the integrity of blood vessels, a stroke state, examine the patient with severe injuries, possible pathologies of internal organs.

The CT is used during treatment to control the processes occurring and under scheduled surveys.

To fence cytology or histologists, tomogram can be used as an additional method.

Contraindications

The method has a number of contraindications:

Excess body weight, body sizes that do not allow the use of tomograph.
Pregnancy.
Allergy to a contrast agent (with a contrast method).
Renal failure.
Endocrine disorders (, diseases).
Bone marrow pathology.

Preparation for computed tomography

In most cases, no special training for tomography is required (we are talking about spiral and multilayer CT).

To use a contrasting method in the study of the abdominal cavity organs and a small pelvis, kidneys, it is necessary to take a solution of urography. Exact recommendations can be obtained at a specialist consultation.

In what cases are prescribed and what CT shows

As a result of the examination, the doctor sees the presence of pathological processes, foci of inflammation, the formation of tumors, cysts, seals, changing the shape and structure of tissues.

CT brain

Kt. brain Exactly indicates the presence and location of foreign structures, neoplasms, including malignant, damage to blood vessels and hemorrhages.

With the help of a graphic image, the doctor determines the seal of the structure of tissues or a decrease in their density. Tompetions, cysts, clocks, plaques are determined by a contrast agent.

CT of the brain is prescribed in the presence of symptoms of violation of brain activity - deterioration of attention and memory, neurological disorders, elevated HBD, head injuries, obsessive.

CT light and chest

For lung disease - tuberculosis infection, pneumonia, malignant neoplasms become an indication for destination CT lungs. It is carried out in two modes:

Examine the structure, condition and position of the lungs, bronchi, respiratory tract, vessels;
In addition to the lungs, in sight a heart, blood vessels (aorta, upper hollow vein, pulmonary artery), lymphatic chest nodes.

An expanded version of the survey of the lungs becomes CT chest.

Three-dimensional graphic image allows you to diagnose in the early stages:

neoplasm
metastasis in the chest,
determine the localization of tuberculous foci,
differentiate aneurysm and verify the integrity of the vessels,
follow the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment in the course of long-term therapy of severe diseases.

CT nose and nasal sinuses

Before conducting rhinoplasty and after serious injuries, the nose is necessary CT nose and nasal sinuses. With its help, the possibility of the presence of foci of inflammation in the apparent sinuses is excluded.

CT back, kidneys

The presence of tumors, concrections, congenital pathologies of kidney development, cyst defines CT. It is prescribed upon receipt of injuries back and kidney.

CT jaws and teeth

On the eve of serious interventions, teeth operations make CT teeth and jaws. With its help, the doctor assesses the state of health of the oral cavity, localization of foci of inflammation, the condition of bone tissue.

CT intestines and abdominal cavity

Indication for computer tomography intestine There is a suspicion of a doctor about the presence of polyps or malignant neoplasms, foci of inflammation and intestinal bleeding. In addition, the method allows us to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment.

Violations in the liver and other internal organs are diagnosed with CT abdominal cavity.

CT spine and joints

CT spine, bones and joints Resets deformations and damage, fractures, diseases, foci of inflammation. As a result of the examination, it is possible to establish causes of pain.

How do computer tomography

How is the procedure?

The patient lies on the back on the tomograph table rotating at a certain speed inside the instrument. The main task is complete immunity during the survey.

The doctor is outside the cabinet, communication with the patient is supported using an audio device. Some moments may have the need to delay the breath, which the patient is reported on the audit channel.

The duration of the procedure is from a quarter to half an hour if additional studies are not required.

What is the difference between CT and MRI

Despite the similarities of both methods (a study with a three-dimensional graphic image obtained by the "response" of tissues to external influence), the main difference is the nature of the used waves.

Unlike CT, during conducting harmless electromagnetic waves.

Side Effects of CT

negative impact of X-rays on the body (risk of developing cancer cells);
allergic reactions to the contrasting agent used;
toxic effects of a contrast agent on the kidneys.

The patient during the procedure may feel the heat, tides blood to the head, ears, cheeks, headache, "iron" taste in the mouth and pain in the epigastria - such manifestations are considered the norm.

The method of computed tomography allows you to get a clear picture of the state of the internal organs in a short period of time. Modern devices minimize the risk of negative impact on the body, which does not matter any comparison with the resulting effect.

Properly pronounced diagnosis - half cured illness. Lekari antiquity determined the disease with unusual methods: in the eyes, nails, skin color and other features. Yes, and today an experienced doctor will tell a lot about the patient, after seeing it for the first time. Much, but not all. The possibilities of modern medicine have increased significantly, new diagnostic methods have emerged, allowing you to look inside the human body and visually assess the degree of defeat of one or another organ. Computer tomography - One of these methods.

What it is?

As soon as X-rays were opened, people learned to receive images of human organs. It is impossible to say that these pictures are perfect. X-ray does not allow to see small foci of violations, as the tissue imposing one to another. The method of linear tomography, with which the image of a certain layer of the organ is obtained, also far from perfection.

And only with the invention of the method Kt. Began breakthrough in diagnosis. For this discovery, scientists of Kormak and Hounsfield were awarded the Nobel Prize. In the arsenal of medical workers, there was an opportunity to see many sections of the organ in different places. The accuracy and speed of the study increased due to the introduction of spiral technology. BUT Modern multi-section technique allows you to make up 64 images of various layers of the organ (There is already information about the appearance of a 320-sease tomograph).

How is it going?

CT installation is quite massive. It is a ring that can rotate with the emission of X-rays. A man lying on a special table is placed inside the rings. The scanner, rotating around it, the layer of the layer studies the body under study. With spiral tomography, the table with the patient also moves. There is something from the world of cosmic fiction, right?

All images can be printed. The CT procedure passes with contrast. Contrast substance (iodine-containing) is used to better visualize the image. The fact is that the X-rays of certain characteristics almost do not see soft tissues. The contrast agent is introduced into a vein, and in some cases the patient simply drinks it.

With the help of the computer tomography method, almost all organs of the human body are investigated: heart, vessels, kidneys, lungs, head and spinal cord, bladder, abdominal cavity, bone. Have you forgotten to mention? And it is also investigated!

Why CT?

Computed tomography of vessels, using X-ray, allows you to see artery and veins in any part of the human body.
The image of the pathological section of the vessel, which is in the most uncomfortable place for other research methods is obtained.
Perhaps the provision of a detailed three-dimensional image of the entire vascular pool.
There is an opportunity to see not only vessels, but also adjacent fabrics, which is a significant plus in diagnosis.
CT blood vessels and other organs are safe for most patients.
The CT procedure is distinguished by small invasiveness.

Who is contraindicated by the CT procedure?

Allergic patients.
Patients with severe renal failure.
People who have the pathology of the thyroid gland. The fact is that the iodine, contained in a contrast agent, increases the production of thyroid hormones, and this can lead to complications.
It is prohibited by CT pregnant women. First, the contrast agent can have a toxic effect on the fruit. Secondly, the effect of X-ray rays is also unsafe for the child.

Video: process of computer tomography

CT vessels

The cause of organs may be in vascular disease. After all, blood is moving on them, providing oxygen cells of the whole organism. The blockage of blood clots, atherosclerotic plaques, - all this leads to a violation of blood flow and, as a result, damage to the relevant organ. With the help of the computer tomography method, you can explore the vessels of any part of the body. For example, to study the state of coronary veins and arteries using CT coronary vessels. And the CT of the vessels of the head and neck explores the cerebral circulation.

Tomography Vessels are shown if the patient has observed:

Signs of chronic and sharp disorders and (including heads): pain, swelling, numbness and others;
Embolism;
Angiopathy of different origin;
Pathology in the development of vessels;
other.

Most patients may undergo a study without harm to health. But after all, some procedure is not shown. In general, people for whom can become a dangerous contrast agent (in particular, iodine) or X-ray radiation.

CT brain

If ordinary radiography provides a survey picture of the brain, then the CT "take pictures" of the brain layers. The distance between the layers is about 1 mm. As a result, the doctor gets the required number of images that allow you to look at any point of the organ. With the help of the CT of the brain, it is possible to consider its structure, see, assess the condition of venous and arterial vessels.

So that the image of the brain layers was clearer, as in the case of peripheral vessels, a contrast agent is introduced. As for contraindications, they are the same as during tomography of vessels. The only difference is: pregnant women sometimes conduct a study, but the region of the uterus is covered with a pounty from lead. Children tomography of brain vessels spend on very serious indications. If the woman feeds the breast, then the break in feeding should be at least 48 hours. During this time, the contrast agent will be completely out of the body.

Study prescribe if a person has:

Fainting;
Memory loss;
Inadless speech;
Convulsions;
Impairment;
Symptoms indicating brain damage;
Suspected tumor or metastases;
Preoperative determination of localization and sizes of formations;
Card and brain injuries;
Stroke (both types - and);
Suspected;
Meningitis;

Preparation for research is also minimal. It is recommended for 6 hours before the procedure is not there. Only clean water is allowed from drinks.

Important! When performing computed tomography, the patient's head must be in an absolutely immobile state. The slightest movement greatly distorts the testimony.

What will "tell" CT about the brain?

With the help of computed tomography can be detected:

Hemorrhage;
Tumors;
Hematomas of any localization;
Swelling and degree of its severity;
Displacement of brain structures;
Cysts;
Inflammatory diseases;
The presence of purulent discharge between shells.

CT pelvis and abdominal cavity

The procedure helps to diagnose the cause of pain in the abdominal cavity, the basin, to identify the pathology of the internal organs.

Main readings:

Stones in the kidneys and bladder;
Pancreatitis;
Pyelonephritis;
Ulcerative colitis;
Thrombosis of the vessels of the abdominal cavity ().
Cirrhosis of the liver;
Appendicitis;
Abscesses;
Tumors of internal organs ,;
, Stenosis.

CT abdominal cavity is needed for:

Estimates of the state of the internal organs after injury;
Proper control of radiotherapy in tumors and monitoring of the condition after chemotherapy;
Estimates of postoperative consequences for organ transplantation and gastric shunting;
Management of minimally invasive methods for the treatment of tumor-like diseases.

Preparation for the procedure

Clothes must be comfortable. In some clinics offer a bathrobe during surveys.
Since metal objects are able to distort the research data, it is recommended to eliminate them. It can be jewelry, hairpins, dentures, hearing aid, glasses, piercing, metal bone bra. It is necessary to inform a specialist about the existing pacemaker. When performing some conditions, this may not impede the survey.
It is recommended for several hours not in front of the study.
It is necessary to prevent the doctor about allergic reactions and drugs taken.
Diseases of kidneys, diabetes, problems with thyroid gland also increase the possibility of side effects.
It is still very important to warn the doctors about pregnancy or suspicious of pregnancy. Almost for all types of CT, pregnancy is absolute contraindication.

Tomography of heart

The heart is compared with the engine. Due to the tireless performance or due to its importance for the body. Disturbances in the work of the heart lead to interruptions in the blood supply to all organs and tissues. Therefore, the diagnosis of "motor" diseases is especially important.

What can I define?

Reason;
State of vascular walls;
Problems with valves;
Heart tumors (et al.);
Calcification of coronary arteries;
Reasons for pain;
Start changes in myocardial and coronary vessels.

What is special in the CT heart?

Photographers know that it is almost impossible to get a high-quality snapshot of a moving object. Therefore, they are always asked to "measure". But the heart will not stop. In this regard, invented a brilliant technique: the camera that removes the cuts of the heart is moved synchronously with the movement of the organ. It is important that the patient's pulse is not accelerated. But no matter how the patient did not calm himself, the excitement is still present during any procedure, even so painless. Therefore, tomography of the heart and blood vessels involves the reception of beta adrenoblockers for removal. Sometimes medicines are injected directly into the vessel before the procedure. To get the most truthful results, the patient is asked to hold their breath.

Tomography of chest

With the help of the CT of the chest, a number of pulmonary pathologies are determined in the early stages. Usually CT lungs are carried out after a radiographic study.

Opportunities of CT in the study of the lungs

Early pneumonia, cancer, tuberculosis, emphysema, are revealed;
The respiratory volume is measured;
You can analyze the lung density;
The diagnosis of occupational diseases associated with admission to light silicon, quartz, asbestos are possible;
Diseases of intrathoramic lymph nodes, trachea, bronchi are detected.

When tomography of lungs also use contrast substances. Special preparation does not require research.

Video: Computed tomography in the plot "1 channel"

So what is CT or MRI?

Many patients are lost: what is the research method to give preference? Compare the two most popular techniques: CT and.
MRI and CT differ technologically. Computed tomography is based on the use of X-ray radiation. Therefore, it is characterized by the same disadvantage as for other X-ray techniques - radiation load. Although the new generation tomographs succeeded as much as possible to decrease, the CT is still contraindicated by a certain category of patients. And a large plot (for example, the whole spine) is impossible to examine due to the overdose of radiation.

At the heart of MRI - magnetic waves. This method is safer. It is recommended even to children and pregnant women.

"Seen" methods are also different. MRI perfectly copes with the diagnosis of head and spinal cord pathologies, but poorly distinguishes hollow organs: bladder, lungs, gallbladder. With this method, you can explore the kidneys, joints, spleen, liver. MRI is not bad "takes" bundles, muscles, eyeball.

Computed tomography applies to diagnose diseases of internal organs. With its help, 100% you can reveal a violation of cerebral circulation, an early staging of stroke. High informativeness in the study of the pancreas. Tumors are well recognized, internal bleeding. Any x-ray sees a bone perfectly. Therefore, the method is indispensable for bone injuries.

the MRI apparatus is very similar to the installation for X-ray CT, but has a longer "tunnel" and a completely different principle of operation

The MRI procedure is more comfortable for patients, when it does not even need to be undressed. The devices of the new generation (open type) do not cause attacks of claustrophobia for individual categories of patients.

The results of the MRI study influences the metal, which is in any place of the body: dentures, braces, pacemaker, pins, brackets, electronic devices in the inner ear, implants. All these "things" can become an absolute contraindication for research.

The average cost of CT of one plot in Moscow 2 500 - 3,500 rubles, and MRI - from 4,500 to 5,000 In the same currency. The price depends on the equipment of the clinic. A more expensive procedure is likely to be carried out on the machine greater power. Patients having a policy of the OMS can pass these studies for free, but the queue is such that in some diseases it can simply not be waited.

CT or computed tomography is a modern method of diagnostic x-ray studies. It is carried out using a special apparatus - tomograph, as well as computer programs for processing the received images. This diagnostic method is today one of the most accurate, rapid and painless.

Let's look at what CT research is. This is a diagnostic method that allows the X-ray to study in detail any organ of the human body. Tomograph makes a series of high quality consecutive images, then exposed to computer processing. On the basis of the data obtained, the radiologist puts or confirms a certain diagnosis.

Computer tomography produced a real coup in medicine. With the invention of this method of diagnostics, it was possible to "see" even the smallest anatomical features of the organs of the human body. Snapshots of certain organs make using a computer tomograph. This is a complex medical equipment manufactured by the latest computer and electronic technologies. The tomograph in a given plane carries out layer-by-layer shooting of the internal structure of the object under study. After computer processing, a high-quality three-dimensional image of a certain part of the body is obtained. With the help of computed tomography, which is noteworthy, you can see:

Even the smallest pathological changes in the organs.
Foci of inflammation, degree of distribution and border.
The condition and structure of the bones, the circulatory system.
Malignant and benign neoplasms.

CT recently spend more and more. The popularity of this method of examination is due to the highest accuracy of the result.

With it, you can conduct an operational study of absolutely any part of the body and organ: from the brain and to the bones.

Computer diagnostic tomograph is a complex software and technical complex, each detail of which is made with high accuracy. The basis of this equipment is super-sensitive detectors, registering the X-ray beam, which has passed through the studied object.

Another important component of tomograph is the software by which the collection is collected and the analysis of the obtained images. The standard kit can be expanded by highly specialized programs.

Types of CT

In addition to the usual consistent tomography, there are the following types of CT:

CT with the introduction of a contrast agent (most often used iodine-containing drugs). It is introduced by injection in veins. It is necessary for the difference between some organs from others, as well as to identify the smallest pathologies.
CT-angiography. This diagnostic study allows you to carry out a detailed study of the circulatory system. It implies an introduction to veins or artery of a coloring substance, allowing to identify even the smallest changes in the structure of the body under study. Most often, the substance is introduced into the elbow vein.
Multilayer CT is distinguished by the presence of several detectors located around the circumference. The number of revolutions of the X-ray tube is two per second.
One of the main advantages of this method is to scan the body under study for one turnover of the X-ray tube.
CT with two radiation sources. This method allows to obtain an image of an organ in constant or rapid motion. Its feature is a short scanning period.
CT-perfusion is a diagnostic method that allows us to evaluate blood passage through tissues.
Multispiral CT is the most accurate, informative and fast diagnostic method. During the procedure, the shooting is carried out on the helix. The duration of the procedure is no more than seven minutes.

Indications

With the help of CT, you can explore any organ of the human body. This method of diagnostic studies is prescribed to determine a large number of diseases. The use of CT prescribes a qualified physician, taking into account the clinical picture and all previous diagnostic studies. CT surveys are recommended to study the status:

brain, nasal sinuses, eyes and inner ear;
cervical spine, neck and shoulders;
thoracic, lungs and hearts;
reproductive system of men and women;
pelvis organs;
liver and kidneys;
abdominal organs.

Computed tomography can also be assigned when the following symptoms appear:

Strong constant headaches.
Injuries and frequent fainting.
Repeating cramps.

In addition, CT can be assigned to control the result of the treatment. For example, it is often prescribed after irradiation and surgical operations.

CT diagnostics includes the following steps:

Scanning the object being studied, carried out by means of a narrow beam of radiographic radiation. Using a special device, the radiation is converted to electrical signals entering the computer for further processing. The scan time of the layer of the object under study is about three seconds.
Recording signals, their conversion into digital code and access to the computer.
Analysis of the obtained images using modern computer technologies.

As a result, the computer program builds a three-dimensional image of a certain organ for which it is possible to determine the dimensions of the object under study, its structure and all pathological changes that have occurred in it.

As a rule, special preparation for computed tomography (CT) is not required. The patient puts on spacious and comfortable clothing, falls on a special table, moving along a tomograph ring, performing motion according to a given program. The studied part on the patient's body is fixed using special belts. It provides her complete immobility during the procedure. Little children often introduce light anesthesia to ensure immobility.

Before the procedure should be removed from all items made of metal, as they can serve as the resulting image of the resulting image. The presence of metal implants in the body must be warned by a doctor before the procedure. Preliminary preparation may be needed with CT with the introduction of a contrast agent. When implementing this diagnostic method, it is prohibited to have a patient and drink at least two hours before diagnosis. During the day to tomography from the diet, it is recommended to eliminate all gas-forming products, such as legumes, milk, black bread, etc.

With me on the CT should be taken:

Direction from a doctor for diagnostics.
The results of the previous computer tomography, if there are.
Outpatient card.

It is possible to obtain the results of computed tomography with a decoding of a doctor in most cases an hour after the procedure or the next day. Sometimes the results of CT may differ from the results obtained by other methods of diagnostic research.

Benefits

Compared to other methods of diagnosis, the CT has the following advantages:

With special equipment, you can get a high-quality three-dimensional image of the organ under study.
High scan speed.
A relatively small number of restrictions.
High accuracy of the result, due to which it is possible to recognize the development of pathology at the initial stage.
This diagnostic technique is permitted to people in an inadequate mental state, as well as people suffering from claustrophobia (fear of closed space).
The ability to explore absolutely all parts of the human body, including blood vessels, fabrics, bones and brain.
High resolution.
No imposition of images of other organs and tissues.

Contraindications

There are no absolute contraindications to computer tomography. In particularly serious cases, at the risk of the emergence of the Father outcome, the CT is appointed to all patients regardless of their age and health status. CT in most cases has the following restrictions:

Body mass more than 150 kg.
Pregnancy.
Mental disorders.

CT with contrast contraindicated with:

Sugar diabetes of severe form.
Melty.
Diseases of the thyroid gland.
The presence of pronounced renal failure.
Computer tomography is not recommended for children under three years. This is due to a relatively large radial burden on a developing organism.
Computer tomography safety.

It should be noted that the dose of radiation during computed tomography is several times higher than in a conventional x-ray study. Therefore, this diagnostic method is prescribed at reasonable cases when other diagnostic techniques did not give an accurate result. Assign CT has the right to exclusively qualified doctor.

Frequent CT can trigger various damage in the DNA structure. In addition, it can serve as a radiation disease.

In some patients, severe allergic reactions may also be observed, accompanied by itching and respiratory edema. They may occur on the components of the staining substance used with a strengthened CT with contrast. However, in most cases, computer tomography goes quickly, painlessly and without any consequences. On average, the procedure takes about 30 minutes.

What is better: CT or MRI

Although these two diagnostic methods are often compared with each other, they have significant differences. Computed tomography allows you to get an image of a physical structure of absolutely any organ, and MRI - show the levels of discrepancies in the chemical composition of the body tissues.

In most cases, CT is such a convenient, affordable and informative diagnostic study. It is recommended to do to study:

Disorders and pathologies in the brain.
The consequences of traumatic changes in the body.
Damage to the circulatory system.
Malignant and benign neoplasms of any localization.
Bones lesions, etc.

Thus, responding to the question of what computer tomography is, we conclude: the survey through CT is one of the most informative in modern medicine of the methods to obtain a complete clinical picture of the body sector under study. It practically does not have serious contraindications and consequences. Diagnosis duration ranges from 20 to 60 minutes.