computed axial tomography

computed axial tomography

(kəm-pyo͞o′tĭd)

n.

Computerized axial tomography.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2007, 2004 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

computed tomography

A diagnostic imaging technique in which multiple X-rays are taken from different angles in a single plane and a series of two-dimensional images (”slices”) of the different tissue densities—e.g., fat, muscle, bone, etc.—is constructed by computer. In contrast to conventional radiology, CT results in a 1000-fold increase in image resolution, and can pinpoint lesions < 2 mm in greatest dimension; dyes may be injected IV to increased resolution of abnormal tissue and blood vessels, or radiocontrast can be used for dynamic testing.

Segen's Medical Dictionary. © 2012 Farlex, Inc. All rights reserved.

com·put·ed ax·i·al to·mog·ra·phy

(CAT) (kŏm-pyū'tĕd ak'sē-ăl tŏ-mog'ră-fē)

Obsolete.
Synonym(s): computed tomography.

Medical Dictionary for the Health Professions and Nursing © Farlex 2012

Computed axial tomography; CT or CAT scan

Computed axial tomography (CT) is a x-ray technique that has the ability to image soft tissue, bone, and blood vessels.

Mentioned in: Adhesions, Brain Biopsy

Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. Copyright 2008 The Gale Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

Patient discussion about computed axial tomography

Q. I get bad headaches had ct scans and m.r.i. even sinus surgery, suffering 2yrs now, dizzness occurs too..

A. If all prior medical investigations turned out normal, and sinus surgery didn't help relieve your symptoms, I would suggest the reason for your headaches is probably migraine attacks, that can cause severe headaches, and no CT scan or MRI can diagnose them. The diagnosis is made clinically, by your doctor. Migraine headaches can be eased by proper medications, before and during an attack. You should consult a neurologist.

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