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X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT)


A CT Scanner

What is computed tomography?

Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic procedure that uses specialized X-ray equipment to obtain cross-sectional pictures of the body. The CT computer displays these pictures as detailed images of organs , bones, and other tissues . This procedure is also called CT scanning, computerized tomography , or computerized axial tomography (CAT). The picture below shows a cross-section of a human.


Where can people get more information about CT?

Additional information about CT is available from the CT Accreditation Department of the American College of Radiology, 1891 Preston White Drive , Reston , VA 20191–4397 . The toll-free telephone number is 1–800–227–5463 (1–800–ACR–LINE). The CT Accreditation Department can be reached by e-mail at ctaccred@acr.org . The American College of Radiology Web site is located at http://www.acr.org on the Internet. Information about diagnostic radiology, including CT, is also available on the Radiology Info Web site at http://www.radiologyinfo.org on the Internet. Radiology Info is the public information Web site of the Radiological Society of North America and the American College of Radiology.

Micro CT

MicroCT scanners are used in biological and other basic research to investigate the anatomy of, amongst other things, experimental animals. Using non-invasive imaging techniques to analyse the response of experimental animals has enormous advantages to the investigator and, most of all, to the animal. For example, measurements of tissue development can be made without sacrificing the subject and without pain. Repeated measurements may thus be made over time in the same animal, providing more accurate information and requiring fewer animals.

Example microCT images of rodents demonstrating ~50 micrometer spatial resolution; clockwise from bottom left: heart and lungs, abdomen, rat spine, kidneys with IV contrast, and full body skeleton.