CT Scan
In Hyde Park, NY a researcher runs a CT scan of an ancient mastodon bone to see if he can find evidence that these prehistoric giants were once an aquatic species. At Stanford University, a scientist is scanning a mummy bone to detect the age of his specimen and look for more detailed clues as to how this individual lived. Of course, CT scans aren’t just used on old bones, corpses and ancient artifacts. They’re more commonly used in diagnostic radiology to let physicians know the extent of their patients’ injuries or diseases.
The full exam, which should take no more than an hour, can be done in an outpatient clinic or hospital setting. To prepare for CT scans, patients usually have to remove their clothes, any metal objects and jewelry, then put on a hospital gown. Depending on which part of the body is being scanned, some patients need to fast for a few hours and have contrast liquid ingested or injected to emphasize more intricate structures like blood vessels. Some patients are also required to modify their diets and take laxatives. Small children may need to take a sedative so that they can remain calm and still to achieve the best test results and clearest images.
The CT scan is widely heralded because it can create very detailed images, because it’s fast, it’s less expensive than other tests and it’s more widely available than ever before. The fact that the test is painless and non-invasive is also appreciated by patients who want a quick, easy diagnosis. Compared to x-rays, CT scans are much more advanced, medical physicians say. Some suggest that the shortage of radioactive isotopes used in nuclear medicine will actually fuel the CT scanning industry, causing more and more people to take this route of testing in the years to come.
Not everyone is a fan of the CT scan, however. Professor Graham Simpson, the director of thoracic medicine at Cairns Base Hospital argues that “There is evidence that the investigation is inappropriately used, causing unnecessary expense and risking adverse events.” He admits that CT scanning has “revolutionized medical imaging,” making it possible for PET and MRI scan technology to flourish; however, it’s also ten times’ more expensive than a chest x-ray. He argues that 65% of Australians have been unnecessarily exposed to increased radiation, which causes cancer. He argues that chest CT scans should not replace a basic chest x-ray just to make a quick buck at the expense of some poor, unsuspecting patient.
Matthew McMillan is a leading expert in cure for genital warts. His works are regularly featured in online health publications on matters relating medications of genital warts. For more information on gential wart cure, visit treatmentforgenitalwarts.com.
