Computed Tomography: Physical Principles, Patient Care, Clinical Applications, and Quality Control

This two-color text provides comprehensive coverage of the physical principles of computed tomography and its clinical applications, with chapter outlines and chapter review questions to help students focus their study time and master content. It also includes three additional chapters on radiation awareness and safety campaigns, patient care considerations, and artificial intelligence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 536 pages
Publication date: 23 September 2022
Publisher: Elsevier - Health Sciences Division

Computed Tomography (CT) is a medical imaging technique that uses computer-processed data to create detailed images of the body's internal structures. It is widely used in medical diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring. In this article, we will explore the physical principles, patient care, clinical applications, and quality control of CT scanning.

Physical Principles:

CT scanning is based on the principles of X-ray radiation and computer technology. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that can penetrate the body and be absorbed by different tissues. When X-rays are directed at the body, they are absorbed by different tissues at varying rates, creating a contrast between them. This contrast is then used by a computer to create a series of cross-sectional images of the body.

The CT scanner consists of a gantry, which is a large rotating structure that holds the X-ray tube and detector array. The gantry rotates around the patient, allowing the X-rays to be directed at different angles and positions. The X-ray tube emits a beam of X-rays that passes through the patient and is detected by the detector array. The detector array produces a series of electrical signals that are processed by a computer to create the final CT image.

Patient Care:

Patient care is an essential aspect of CT scanning. Before the scan, the patient will be asked to remove any metal objects or jewelry that may interfere with the imaging process. The patient will also be asked to drink a certain amount of water to fill their bladder and prevent kidney stones from forming. During the scan, the patient will be positioned in a comfortable position and asked to remain still. The scan may take several minutes, depending on the area being scanned.

Clinical Applications:

CT scanning has a wide range of clinical applications, including imaging of the brain, chest, abdomen, and pelvis. It can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including tumors, fractures, and organ diseases. CT scanning can also be used to guide surgical procedures, such as biopsy and tumor removal.

Quality Control:

Quality control is an essential aspect of CT scanning to ensure that the images produced are accurate and reliable. There are several measures that can be taken to ensure quality control, including:

Calibration: The CT scanner must be calibrated regularly to ensure that it is producing accurate images. Calibration involves measuring the X-ray beam intensity and adjusting the detector array to produce the correct contrast.

Image Reconstruction: Image reconstruction is the process of creating a 3-dimensional image from a series of 2-dimensional images. There are several image reconstruction techniques available, including filtered backprojection and iterative reconstruction.

Contrast Administration: Contrast administration is the process of injecting a contrast agent into the patient to enhance the visibility of certain structures. Contrast agents can be administered orally, intravenously, or rectally.

In conclusion, CT scanning is a powerful medical imaging technique that has a wide range of clinical applications. It is based on the principles of X-ray radiation and computer technology and requires careful patient care to ensure that the images produced are accurate and reliable. Quality control is an essential aspect of CT scanning to ensure that the images produced are of the highest quality.

Weight: 1190g
Dimension: 185 x 264 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780323790635
Edition number: 5 ed