7 Reasons You May Need a CT Scan
With advancements in medical technology, healthcare professionals are able to gain detailed insights into the human body. Computed tomography (CT scans) plays a critical role in diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of medical conditions.
At Professional Radiology, we use state-of-the-art medical machinery to successfully provide patients in El Paso with accurate imaging services. If you require a CT scan, contact us online or call (915) 225-2480 to learn more.
Identify Injuries
Sometimes injuries can’t be detected by looking at the exterior of a patient’s body. CT scans are valuable in this case to assess damage to the head, spine, chest, and abdomen. In cases of trauma resulting from accidents or falls, CT scans provide detailed-cross sectional images, allowing physicians to quickly identify fractures, internal bleeding, or organ damage.
Diagnose Tumors or Cancer
When it comes to diagnosing tumors or evaluating the extent of cancer, CT scans can provide detailed images of organs and tissues. Using low-dose cancer screening, doctors can detect abnormal growths, determine their size, and evaluate potential spreading. CT scans also aid in surgical planning as well as monitoring the effectiveness of cancer treatments like chemo or radiation therapy.
Evaluating the Tissue and Organs in the Chest
Chest CT scans are are more detailed than x-rays, giving you more information about possible diseases or injury of your chest organs. A chest CT often looks for blockages, injuries, infections, tumors, reasons behind unexplained chest pain, and more.
Assess Cardiovascular Health
CT angiography is a specialized form of CT scanning that is used to evaluate the health of the heart and blood vessels. By producing interior images of the coronary arteries, CT scans help identify blockages, aneurysms, or other abnormalities that can lead to damaging issues like a heart attack or stroke. This non-invasive procedure is ideal for patients who experience chest pains or heart conditions, offering an alternative to invasive diagnostic techniques.
Detect Abdominal and Pelvic Conditions
For patients with abdominal pain, gastrointestinal issues, or similar abnormalities, CT scans can help identify these issues. Conditions such as appendicitis, diverticulitis, kidney stones, or abdominal tumors can be detected and treated quickly and efficiently. In some cases, patients may experience more than one type of abdominal and/or pelvic pain, so a CT scan can help doctors identify multiple issues, too, in just one scan.
Monitor Treatment and Disease Progression
CT scans are not only used for the initial diagnosis of injuries or disease but also to track the effectiveness of treatments and the progression of various diseases. Whether it’s evaluating the response to cancer therapies or assessing the reduction of tumors or recurrence, CT scans are an essential tool for doctors to make informed decisions regarding ongoing patient care.
MRI Isn’t An Option
Another form of diagnostic imaging is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), which is used to diagnose brain and spinal cord disorders, joint and musculoskeletal conditions, and cancer. In the case of an MRI, this method may not be used on patients who have metallic objects in their bodies. This can include a pacemaker or bullets, shrapnel, screws, and more. Similarly, an MRI requires patients to stay completely still during the duration of a 30-minute scan. If a patient has a medical condition that prevents them from being still, a CT scan is a better, more time-efficient option.
Schedule a CT Scan in El Paso Today!
At Professional Radiology, we believe in a hands-on approach to successfully deliver high-quality care and precise imaging to treat our patients. If you’re looking for compassionate care in El Paso, look no further than our team of technicians. Contact us online or call (915) 225-2480 to schedule an appointment today.