What Does CT Software Do? by Kathryn Dawson

Computed Tomography Scan, or a CT scan creates 3D images by processing many 2D X-ray images. This type of scan (or modality) is another method of scanning the body to help see problems, abnormalities and poor health for diagnosis and treatment. It is also sometimes known as a CAT scan. It is a simple and straightforward scan that is non-invasive and can therefore be delivered on an outpatient basis. In more detail, it involves the capturing of a series of X-ray views taken from many different angles within the body to produce many different images of the cross section of the bones and soft tissue in the body. It goes much further than an X-ray can by providing in-depth pictures of the organs, tissue, blood vessels and bones in the body. The 2D cross sectional images provided are then subjected to further processing by the software to provide clear 3D images for analysis.

In a typical X-ray process, the body is subjected to a small dose of radiation, some of which gets absorbed by the body and then projected onto photographic film. In a CT scan however, many X-ray beams are exposed to the body, and X-ray detectors are used to measure the amount of radiation being absorbed. The person within the scanner will have the X-ray beam rotate around their body so it follows a spiral path. The multiple images taken of the body from this examination are then processed by specialist software to produce a 3D image of the body's interior. This image will then be processed by a radiologist and passed on to the relevant physician or group of physicians for further action and treatment of the patient.

CT scans are often called upon for quick examination of a patient who has been in a serious accident where injuries could well be internal. Car accidents or other serious traumas for example can often result in internal bleeding or swelling in the brain that won't be immediately obvious and will need a CT scan to diagnose. It is possible for doctors to closely examine the brain using a computed topographical scan so any abnormalities or even very slight problems can be detected. Further to examining the brain, a CT scan is also ideal for revealing muscle and bone disorders including breaks and fractures, internal bleeding and other serious internal injuries, cancerous tumors, infections and blood clots as well as heart disease and other serious illnesses. CT scans can even be an assistance during surgeries, biopsies or radiation therapy treatment by working as a guide.

The technology with regard to CT scans and software has progressed over the years and now this form of scanning is one of the most effective and efficient ways of examining the body from the inside, enabling doctors to see various cancers, abnormalities and internal health problems. Many serious illnesses and conditions do not have external symptoms for a long time, so CT scans enable them to be caught and treated much earlier than they otherwise would be. Medical imaging such as these types of scans make correct diagnosis easier for doctors too as the clear images provided leave little room for doubt when diagnosing an illness.

CT software plays a crucial part in the field of medicine. Without being able to see the interior of the body a whole host of illnesses and problems would go undiagnosed. Doctors across many different fields use medical imaging solutions such as CT scans regularly and are often the basis of diagnosis of diagnosis of cancers and problems in the brain. A radiologist will initially process the information of a CT scan and will pass the information on to the physician treating the patient. In very interesting cases the data will be reviewed during a tumor board presentation for further action and treatment of the patient involved. There is more chance of successful treatment when an early diagnosis is made.