Contents
Tomography is the most important stage of diagnostics. Applicable for assessing the state of internal structures. Today it is one of the most accurate research methods. The image of the “slice” comes out at any level – the main difference from the x-ray.
Advantages
This is a unique non-invasive diagnostic method that allows layer-by-layer assessment of tissue structures. At the same time, traumatization of the patient is reduced to zero. Moreover, it allows you to get three-dimensional images.
Methodology standardized, which means that in the process of scanning and obtaining images of structures and tissues, medical errors are impossible. The procedure is characterized by a high-quality image. CT has a significant scanning speed, allowing you to obtain slices with a minimum thickness of 0,5 mm.
Brief information
The technique was discovered in 1972. The principle of operation is based on the irradiation of a specific area with rays for further computer processing. One of the most accurate and modern diagnostic methods is CT of the pancreas. The technique allows to identify minimal lesions of pancreatic tissue.
CT is a fast diagnostic method, because the scan duration does not exceed 5-10 minutes. At the same time, it allows diagnosing various lesions – from fresh hemorrhages to cysts and oncology.
Indications for this kind of research
Diagnosis of such a plan is mainly used:
- in pancreatitis;
- with suspicion of volumetric education;
- with traumatic lesions;
- with sharp pains in the area of the projection of the gland;
- with a sharp emaciation, excessive sweating;
- with severe diabetes mellitus.
Modern devices allow minimizing the duration of the procedure with high productivity. Such a technical solution only improved the diagnostic value of the technique.
Study contraindications
During the study, a certain dosage of radiation is affected, but it is small. In addition, special programs have been developed in modern technology to minimize exposure to the patient.
Despite this, the examination is not carried out for pregnant women. Children under 14 years of age are diagnosed strictly according to the direction.
CT is not recommended for hyperkinesis in a patient, since immobility is necessary to obtain good visualization, and hence the accuracy of the results. Stage with application tothe contrast agent is also contraindicated during lactation, since it passes into breast milk. If the procedure is necessary, the breastfeeding woman refuses breastfeeding for 48 hours.
In the presence of kidney damage, CT with contrast is also not prescribed due to strong and serious side effects. Diagnosis of patients weighing more than 180-200 kg is prohibited.
Contrasting technique
Preparation for diagnosis depends entirely on the type of study. Usually For 2-3 days, it is recommended to follow a diet that limits the use of foods that increase gas formation. On the day of the examination CT should not eat for the last 4-5 hours before the procedure.
CT is performed on an empty stomach. In the evening and in the morning before the study it’s desirable cleanse the intestines with an enema.
The technique of parenteral administration of a contrast agent is used to study the blood flow of tumor neoplasms or specifically to study blood vessels. Contrast enhancement is applied according to a special scheme.
Contrast is a special substance based on iodine. It is necessary for maximum clarity of visualization of the examined elements. Administered parenterally through a catheter a few minutes before re diagnostics – First, the patient is scanned without contrast agent. Possesst neutrality, low toxicity to the body. Therefore, it does not provide, usually, no effect on the patient’s condition.
The function of the contrast medium is significant. Due to the staining of the vessels, further soft tissue contrast is improved. This significantly improves the quality of visualization, so the use of contrast is justified primarily in neoplasms.
The dosage of the contrast element is always selected individually. It all depends on the age and weight of the patient. The substance is excreted within 1-2 days.
Procedure
Direct scanning occurs in the annular part of the apparatus in the supine position of the patient. During the examination of discomfort, there is no pain. movements during studies minimize the information content of images.
The patient is alone in the room. X-ray technician, which controls the scanning process, is located in the adjacent room. Between the rooms there is a window that allows and a radiologist, including follow the process directly. Communication is only possible with the speakerphone. Each tomograph is equipped with such hardware. For a call medical staff there is a special button, which during the procedure is the patient. Many devices have a built-in camera to monitor the patient’s well-being. Therefore, the patient is always under medical supervision.
After diagnosis using a contrast agent the patient must necessarily drink plenty of fluids. This is necessary to cleanse the body of contrast in a short time.
Issuing results
Images are processed by a special program under the guidance of a doctor. Such processing often takes no more than an hour. Urgent cases are issued within half an hour. The patient receives several large pictures and their detailed decoding for health reasonswhich is carried out directly by the radiologist based on the obtained visual picture. Data can be sent to the patient by e-mail.
It is important to show the results to the doctor or specialist whose work is related to the identified pathology.
Only by bringing together all the studies and evaluating the clinical picture, the doctor makes the final diagnosis.
If CT was performed on the personal initiative of the patient, then further actions entirely depend on the characteristics of the identified lesion. You can clarify further actions with specialists performing tomography.
What does the cost depend on? The price is formed taking into account of service expensive apparatus. This includes consumables, maintenance, energy costs, and other factors.