Computed Tomography (CT)

A computed tomography examination is a non-invasive, fast, painless, and safe radiological method that obtains sectional or tomographic images from X-ray (radiograph) images taken from different angles of our body using advanced computers and software. This feature distinguishes it from direct radiographs. With today's state-of-the-art tomography devices, in addition to axial (horizontal) sections, helical (spiral) sectional images are converted into 3D images that provide much more detailed information through advanced computer software.

It allows the imaging of almost all body parts. It is most commonly used for the rapid diagnosis of skeletal system and internal organ damage in accidents and traumas.

Computed tomography devices are shaped like an open-ended tube with a movable table around which the tube and detectors rotate. For the scan, you are positioned appropriately on this table. Sometimes pillows, special devices, or restraining belts are used to ensure complete immobility. Once you are positioned appropriately on this table, the tube and detectors rotate around you to capture the necessary image sections.

Main Examination Areas

. Tumors, fractures, and other diseases in muscles and bones
. Determining the location and size of tumors, infections, bleeding, and blood clots
. Guiding surgical procedures, biopsies, and radiation therapy
. Diagnosing cancer, heart disease, lung nodules and tumors, and liver masses
. Evaluating the effectiveness of various treatments, especially cancer therapy
. Diagnosing internal organ damage and internal bleeding

Is it Risky?

Your scan is performed by trained and experienced radiology technicians through a computer in the control room after your preparations are completed. The scanning technician views you on a television monitor during the scan and communicates with you via intercom.

Since it is a more detailed imaging method, you are exposed to slightly more ionizing radiation during a computed tomography scan compared to a direct radiograph. While the long-term effects of this radiation dose have not been demonstrated, it has been reported that very high doses slightly increase the potential risk of cancer. Since computed tomography provides much more important information relative to this risk, it is negligible compared to the potential benefits when needed, and scans are performed using the lowest possible doses with new and advanced technology and fast devices compared to older devices.

Although no significant adverse effects of the low radiation doses received during computed tomography have been reported on humans, if you are pregnant, your doctor may recommend diagnostic methods such as ultrasound (USG) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to protect your baby from possible exposure.

In contrast-enhanced (with medication) scans, serious allergic and medical issues can occur, albeit rarely. If you have a history of allergies, it is important to inform your requesting doctor.

How Should We Prepare?

• . First, ask the doctor requesting the computed tomography examination to explain why this test is needed, its potential risks, and to answer all your questions.
• . Depending on the area of your body to be examined, you may be asked to undress and wear a single-use patient gown provided by our facility.
• . You need to remove items that could negatively affect the image, such as belts, jewelry, dental prostheses, glasses, etc.
• . To obtain clearer images, depending on the area to be examined, contrast material may need to be administered orally, intravenously, or rectally.
• . You can eat, drink, and take your medications before non-contrast (without medication) scans. If a contrast-enhanced scan is required, do not eat or drink anything a few hours before.
• . In scans of infants and children, sedatives (calming medications) may be administered to keep the child calm and still. Your requesting doctor will inform you about this.
• . If a computed tomography angiography (CTA) or virtual colonoscopy is requested, you will be provided with some special information about these scans when scheduling your appointment.

After Your Scan:

• . If you do not have any special precautions or conditions that require care after the scan, you can immediately return to your normal daily life.
• . If contrast material was used, some special instructions may be given, and you may be observed for a short period until you feel well.
• . The images obtained are examined and interpreted by our specialist doctors and reported; they are delivered to you or your requesting doctor.
• . Your result reports and images are stored digitally in our PACS system for access when needed.
• . Thanks to our PACS application, if you wish, your images can be shared with your doctors in different countries via the internet for consultation services.
• . The need for film printing has also been minimized with the PACS system. With this feature, we significantly contribute to the sustainability of our world as a filmless center.