Name of the Procedure:

CT Studies Not Reported to a Radiation Dose Index Registry (Reason Not Given)
(Common names: CT Scan, Computed Tomography Scan, CAT Scan)

Summary

A Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a medical imaging procedure that produces detailed cross-sectional images of the body using X-rays and computer processing. This specific note indicates that the CT scan performed was not reported to a radiation dose index registry, and the reason for not reporting was not provided.

Purpose

CT scans help diagnose various medical conditions by providing clear images of bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues. They are often used to detect tumors, internal injuries, infections, and other abnormalities.

Indications

• Persistent symptoms like severe headaches, unexplained fevers, or chronic pain.
• Trauma or suspected internal injuries.
• Monitoring the progression of certain medical conditions.
• Guiding certain surgical procedures or biopsies.

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for a few hours before the scan.
• Removal of metal objects to avoid interference with image quality.
• Pre-scan diagnostic tests may include blood work or urinary tests.

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies on a motorized table that slides into a CT scanner, which is a large, doughnut-shaped machine.
2. Patients must remain still during the procedure.
3. Sometimes a contrast dye is injected to highlight certain areas.
4. The X-ray tube rotates around the patient, taking multiple images.
5. A computer processes these images to create cross-sectional views.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 10-30 minutes.

Setting

CT scans are performed in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and specialized imaging centers.

Personnel

Radiologists, radiologic technologists, and sometimes nurses or specialized technicians are involved in the procedure.

Risks and Complications

• Exposure to low levels of radiation.
• Allergic reactions to contrast dye.
• Rarely, complications from contrast dye such as kidney problems.

Benefits

• Quick and non-invasive diagnostic tool.
• High-quality images that aid in accurate diagnosis.
• Helps in planning treatment and assessing the effectiveness of ongoing treatment.

Recovery

• Little to no recovery time needed; patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
• If contrast dye is used, patients may be advised to drink fluids to help eliminate it from the body.

Alternatives

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): No radiation but can be more time-consuming.
• Ultrasound: No radiation but limited in visualizing bone and certain tissues.
• X-rays: Less detailed images but faster and cheaper for specific issues.

Patient Experience

• The procedure is generally painless.
• Patients might experience slight discomfort from lying still or the sensation of the dye injection.
• Mild anxiety from being in an enclosed space, which can be mitigated by communicating with the technician.