CT Scan

CT Scan, or computed tomography scan, is a medical imaging technology used to diagnose diseases and abnormalities within the body. It involves the use of X-rays to produce detailed images of the internal organs and structures, providing more information than conventional X-rays. Bang Phai Hospital offers a 32-slide CT Scan service, capable of capturing up to 32 images per rotation. 

Identifiable diseases and symptoms that can be diagnosed using CT Scan include: 

• Brain Diseases: CT Scan can help doctors diagnose conditions such as cerebral hemorrhage, blocked or ruptured blood vessels in the brain, tissue infections or inflammations, tumors, cancers, and bone fractures. 

• Chest Diseases: The machine can assist in diagnosing lung nodules, tissue infections or inflammations, pulmonary veins and arteries, heart function, heart valves, lung capacity, pulmonary water content, and other chest-related conditions. 

• Abdominal Diseases: CT Scan aids in diagnosing liver diseases, fatty liver abnormalities, intestinal narrowing or perforation, gallbladder conditions, appendicitis, kidney function, kidney stones, urinary tract stones, uterine stones, infectious inflammations in various organs, and bone fractures. 

• Orthopedic Conditions: The device helps in diagnosing various bone diseases, including fractures, depressions, deformities, bone tuberculosis, and bone cancer. 

• Vascular Diseases: CT Scan assists in diagnosing arterial and venous diseases throughout the body, detecting abnormalities or inflammations in blood vessels. 

The procedure for performing a CT scan involves the patient lying down on the scanner bed. The bed moves until the area to be scanned aligns with the ring, and the ring emits X-rays around the patient. The machine captures images of the inside of the body, and the doctor may ask the patient to hold their breath or follow specific instructions. Communication between the patient and doctor is possible through a voice communication device. The scan typically takes 10-20 minutes, and the diagnosis is made based on the data, which may take several days to weeks to process. Contrast medium may be used in some cases to enhance the scan. 

After a CT scan, patients can resume their normal activities. However, if medication was administered for relaxation before the scan, driving should be avoided. Patients who received contrast medium may need to stay for 1-2 hours under observation for any potential symptoms. Drinking plenty of water is recommended to help excrete the contrast agent from the body through urine. 

It's important to note the following precautions and considerations when undergoing a CT scan: 

• The decision to perform a CT scan should be made by a physician. 

• Pregnant women should only undergo a CT scan if absolutely necessary, as it may affect the unborn child. 

• CT scans should not be performed too frequently, as excessive radiation exposure can have health implications. 

• If the patient is a child, proper advice and preparation should be provided. 

• Identification information and a history of drug allergies should be provided to the medical staff. 

• Foreign objects, such as jewelry, should be removed as they can interfere with the interpretation of the scan. 

• If any abnormal symptoms occur after the scan, such as difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, itchy rashes, or swollen lips, immediate medical attention should be sought. 

It's essential to follow the guidance and instructions provided by healthcare professionals before, during, and after a CT scan to ensure a safe and effective procedure. 

Bang Phai Hospital offers a 32-slide CT Scan service for diagnosing brain, chest, abdominal, orthopedic, and vascular diseases. The procedure involves X-rays and may use contrast medium. Precautions include avoiding frequent scans, monitoring for side effects, and providing patient history.