Computerized Tomography To Diagnose Back Pain

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Computerized Topography better known as CT scans (or sometimes CAT scans) are nothing but sophisticated X ray images created with the use of computers. However, the images produced are more informative than the simple images produced on an X-ray film. The CT machine slowly revolves around the part of the body being scanned. The patient is in a lateral position while the machine does its work scanning the part under investigation from all 360 degree angles.

While the machine circles the body it constantly measures the intensity of the X-rays penetrating the body. It then sends the data to the computer which puts the data together and produces very detailed images of the scanned part in black-and-white. Each image will show a slightly different view. These images are a cross-section of the body area being scanned. Because the images are just about a fourth of an inch apart from the next image they produce a very accurate picture of the internal structure of the body. CT scans can be used to investigate any part of the body’s soft or bone tissue structure.

It is not common for doctors to prescribe CT scans for back pain problems. CT scans are better used for diagnosing problems with the internal organs such as the abdominal organs than showing details of the spinal column. However, some back pains can be caused by malfunctioning internal organs and in such cases, if the doctor suspects, he or she may prescribe a CT scan to determine or rule this out.

Some doctors prescribe a CT scan along with a test called a Myelogram to get a clear picture of the spinal cord and the places where bones may be pinching it, causing back pain.

The complete CT scan can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and does not require hospitalization. This is an out patient procedure and the patient can go home as soon as the scan is complete. The CT scan report may take another day to prepare and so it is usually collected the next day and presented to the doctor who may then decide on a course of treatment.

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The CT Scan evolved from Tomograms; multiple x-rays taken at different levels to check the depth of an abnormality. The advent of computers in medicine has meant less radiation exposure and shorter study times. The CT Scan has become an important adjunct to x-rays. The CT Scan uses multiple x-ray beams projected at many angles in conjunction with computer resources to create three-dimensional cross-sectional images. Each image or picture reveals a different level of tissue that resembles slices.