The “CT” in “CT scan” stands for “computed tomography.” CT machines use a series of X-ray scans to get detailed images of the inside of the body. Each of these X-ray images can be viewed individually or collectively, giving doctors both a more detailed and comprehensive view of their patients. These scans involve a patient lying still on a table while the CT machine spirals around them gathering images. The resulting images are used to detect cancer in the body.
A low dose CT scan can detect cancer much better than traditional X-rays can. According to Swedish Foundation, traditional X-ray imaging can detect cancers as small as a dime. However, if you want to catch cancer before it’s as large as a dime, you need something more effective than traditional X-ray. CT scans can detect cancers that are as small as a grain of rice.
One of the main concerns people have with CT scans is radiation exposure. However, low dose CT scans use significantly less radiation than other types of CT scans. According to the American College of Radiology and Radiological Society of North America, the average estimated radiation in a low dose CT scan is around 1.5 mSv. The average person in the United States receives 3 mSv of naturally occurring radiation during the course of a year. The amount of radiation in a low dose CT scan can be accumulated naturally in half a year, and when you consider that scan can save your life, that radiation seems negligible.
The scans are incredibly quick and easy, and can often be done in less than a minute. Another advantage to low dose CT scans is that they don’t require dyes or injections, which makes them an even more inviting option for imaging.
MANA’s Diagnostic Imaging team provides low dose CT at Fayetteville Diagnostic Clinic. Ask your doctor to schedule your CT with MANA Imaging.