CT Services

Murray County Medical Center's 64 Slice CT Scan

What is a CT or CAT Scan?

A CT or CAT scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays. CT scans also minimize exposure to radiation. In conventional x-rays, a beam of energy is aimed at the body part being studied. A plate behind the body part captures the variations of the energy beam after it passes through skin, bone, muscle, and other tissue. While much information can be obtained from a regular x-ray, a lot of detail about internal organs and other structures is not available.

In computed tomography, the x-ray beam moves in a circle around the body. This allows many different views of the same organ or structure, and provides much greater detail. The x-ray information is sent to a computer that interprets the x-ray data and displays it in 2-dimensional form on a monitor. While many images are taken during a CT scan, in many cases, the patient receives less radiation exposure than with a single standard x-ray.

CT scans may be performed to help diagnose tumors, investigate internal bleeding, or check for other internal injuries or damage.

How is a CT or CAT scan performed?

CT scans can be performed on an outpatient basis, unless they are part of a patient's inpatient care. It will be necessary for you to remain still and quiet during the procedure, which may last 30 to 60 minutes.

MCMC is staffed 24/7 for CTs.
Ask your provider if you can have your CT done at MCMC for close to home and convenient healthcare.