Question of the Day

In computed tomography (CT) ionizing radiation is used to create an image.

During a CT scan, an x-ray beam passes transaxially through the patient.

X-ray attenuation (drop off) is measured at sequential sites in a segment of the patient’s anatomy.

A computer reconstructs the data into a cross-sectional image viewed on a monitor.

Computed tomography provides better spatial resolution and radiographic contrast compared to standard radiography.

Patients must remain still for a long period of time, necessitating heavy sedation or general anesthesia to achieve proper positioning without motion artifact.

Therefore, CT may be too risky in unstable patients.