CT Scan
Find an Inova location for your CT scan
Computed Tomography (CT) or Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) us es special X-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body. A computer processes the information to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs.
CT scans reveal if tissues in the body are fluid or solid and are used to diagnose tumors, internal injuries and various other problems.
How does it work?
Specific amounts of X-rays are passed through the body. An X-ray beam is
emitted in a fan shape as the rotating frames spin the
X-ray tube and detector
around the patient. Each time the X-ray tube and detector make a complete
rotation, the image of a thin section of the body is acquired. Computer
processing allows the information from the detectors to be reconstructed into
2- and 3-dimensional images.
How else is CT used?
CT scans are noninvasive, painless and accurate. Diagnoses from
CT scans can
prevent the need for invasive surgery. CT is also used in interventional
procedures such as biopsies and treatments.
Computed Tomography Angiography
Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) is a special kind of
CT scan that
visualizes blood flow through the body's arteries and veins.
The exam is also used to identify aneurysms in the aorta and
other major blood vessels.
