Jordan Ellis
Scans are a common procedure in hospitals and are used to diagnose, monitor, and manage a range of conditions. They can help detect injuries, diseases, and irregularities within the body. There are several types of scans, each using different technologies to create images of the body, including X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, ultrasounds, and PET scans. These scans use radiation, magnetic fields, radio waves, sound waves, or a combination of these elements to visualise structures and functions within the body. The type of scan performed depends on the area of the body being examined and the specific condition being investigated.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To detect injuries and diseases, monitor and manage conditions |
| Types | X-ray, CT, MRI, Ultrasound, PET |
| Technology | Radiation, X-ray beams, magnets, radio waves, sound waves, computer processing |
| Preparation | Remove metal jewelry or clothing, wear ear protection, complete safety questionnaire |
| Results | Usually within 24-48 hours, but within an hour in an emergency |
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What You'll Learn
CT scans
A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a diagnostic imaging test that combines X-rays with computer processing to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. CT scans use more X-ray beams than a normal X-ray, providing more detailed images. The rotating X-ray beam in a CT scanner creates images in the form of slices of the body, which can be reconstructed using computer software to produce 3D images.
During a CT scan, the patient lies on a motorised table that slides into the scanner. It is important to remain still during the scan to ensure clear images. The scanner may make buzzing or whirring noises, but the process is totally painless and usually takes just a few minutes.
After the scan, most people can resume their normal daily activities unless instructed otherwise by their healthcare provider. Results from the CT scan are typically available within 24 to 48 hours, although in emergency settings, results may be available within an hour. Once the results have been reviewed by a radiologist and the healthcare provider, they will be discussed with the patient, and further testing may be recommended.
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X-rays
X-ray images are created when the x-rays pass through the body and an x-ray detector on the other side. The detector can be photographic film or one of many other types of detectors used to produce digital images. These images are called radiographs, and they represent the "shadows" formed by the objects inside the body.
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MRI scans
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan is a painless and safe procedure that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate highly detailed 3D images of the inside of the body. The MRI machine is a large, cylindrical tube that contains powerful magnets. Patients lie inside the tube during the scan, which can last between 15 and 90 minutes. It is important to remain as still as possible during the procedure.
In some cases, a contrast material containing gadolinium, a rare earth metal, may be injected into the patient's vein through an IV line to enhance the quality of the images. This substance alters the magnetic properties of nearby water molecules, improving the sensitivity and specificity of the diagnostic images. However, there is a slight risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast material, and it is generally avoided in pregnant women due to unknown risks to the developing fetus.
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PET scans
A PET scan is a generally safe imaging test that healthcare providers use to assess cancer, heart issues, and brain conditions. PET stands for Positron Emission Tomography. This scan can help detect early signs of cancer and guide treatment. It involves injecting a safe radioactive tracer into the patient's body to help detect diseased cells by showing how their organs are functioning in real-time.
PET imaging is excellent for identifying the activity of tumors within organs that cannot be structurally identified with other imaging techniques. The images produced by PET scans can show the functioning of cells and tumors. Modern PET scans include a CT scan, or in some cases, an MRI. These are known as PET-CT or PET-MRI.
In total, you should plan to be in the PET department for 2 to 3 hours. After your PET scan, a very small amount of the radiotracer will remain in your body. So, be sure to drink plenty of water to help flush it out of your system.
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Ultrasound scans
Before an ultrasound, you may be asked to remove certain pieces of clothing or change into a hospital gown. The technician will then apply a gel to your skin over the area being examined. This gel, which is water-based and does not harm the skin or stain clothes, allows the ultrasound to be transmitted from the transducer (or probe) into the body. The technician will move the handheld transducer over the gel to capture images inside your body. You may be asked to hold your breath or remain very still for a few seconds to create clearer pictures.
The time it takes to get ultrasound results varies, but the procedure itself typically lasts around 20 to 40 minutes. After the ultrasound, you will be given paper towels to wipe off the gel and can get dressed. The results are usually sent to your doctor, and you will need to make a follow-up appointment to receive them.
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Frequently asked questions
A CT scan is a diagnostic imaging test that combines X-rays with computer processing to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. CT scans can help healthcare providers detect injuries and diseases.
An MRI scan uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of the body. MRI scans do not use radiation and are therefore particularly useful for children and for imaging soft structures such as the kidneys.
An X-ray uses radiation to create flat, 2D images of the body. X-rays only take a couple of minutes and are commonly used to check for a collapsed lung.
An ultrasound is a quick, painless scan that uses sound waves to visualise structures in the body. Ultrasounds are commonly used on pregnant women to check on an unborn child.
A PET scan is a procedure used to visualise activity in the body rather than just creating images of structures. A patient is injected with a substance that emits radiation, which is then detected and used to create an image. PET scans are often used to investigate and monitor cancer.
