What Is A CAT Scan?

A Computed Axial Tomography scan is more commonly known as a CAT scan or CT scan. It is a procedure which combines multiple x-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-section views and if needed, three-dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. A CAT scan is used to define normal and abnormal structures in the body and or assist in procedures by helping to accurately guide the placement of instruments or treatments. A large circular shaped x-ray machine takes x-ray images at many different angles around the body. These images are processed by a computer to produce cross-section pictures of the body. In each of these pictures the body is seen as an x-ray slice of the body, which is recorded on a film. This recorded image is called a tomogram. Computerized Axial Tomography refers to the recorded tomogram sections at different levels of the body. CAT scans are carried out to take a closer look at the internal parts of the body. This includes the head where blood clots, skull fractures, tumours and infections can be identified.