Computed Tomography/Coronary Computed Tomography Angiogram - CT/CTA Scan
Computed Tomography (CT) Scan uses a thin beam or beams of x-ray to reconstruct
images of the body. Unlike x-ray, which creates a single image, CT scan
constructs a volume representation of the area examined. CT is far more
sensitive to subtle differences in body tissues than x-ray.
Some CT examinations may require you to ingest liquid material to better define your bowel. Some examinations may also require an intravenous injection for better blood vessel and tissue definition. In certain patients with renal dysfunction or specific medical conditions the injection dose may be altered or omitted. In some cases of an allergic history to this type of injection pre-medication may be provided prior to the scan if the injection is felt to be necessary for accurate diagnosis.
Modern CT technology uses multiple scan slices to acquire the examination more rapidly and with greater detail. All CRA sites have multi-slice scanners available for diagnostic scans. If your CT is not scheduled at one of our sites or our partner sites, you can ask your referring physician if they are sending you to a site that has invested in this technology.
Our scanners can create detailed 3D images of your body from the information obtained during the exam. When needed high-end computer workstations can further process the images to assess specific findings or questions.
CT Angiography (CTA) refers to scanning which is performed with an IV injection directed toward evaluation of blood vessels. All CRA Medical Imaging CTA scans are performed on multi-slice scanners.