Computed tomography (CT) is one among the foremost important diagnostic tools in medicine, with a good scope for clinical use. Computed tomography (CT) has had a profound effect on the practice of drugs. Both the spectrum of clinical applications and therefore the role that CT has played in enhancing the depth of our understanding of disease are profound. CTs have increased their diagnostic capability while reducing examination times and radiation doses. At present, the state-of-the-art equipment performs real-time image acquisition with 320 “slices” (cross- sections used for reconstructing an anatomical image) or 640 slices interpolated, allowing detailed visualization of moving organs. Since its introduction within the 1970s, computed tomography (CT) has revolutionized diagnostic decision-making. CT scanning has revolutionized medicine, but the utilization of such powerful technology demands that the radiologist consider the importance of patient safety additionally to image quality and diagnostic effectiveness. When used appropriately, the advantages of a CT scan far exceed the risks. CT scans can provide detailed information to diagnose, plan treatment for, and evaluate many conditions in adults and youngsters. Additionally, the detailed images provided by CT scans may eliminate the necessity for exploratory surgery.

Concerns about CT scans include the risks from exposure to ionizing radiation and possible reactions to the intravenous contrast agent, or dye, which can be used to improve visualization. The exposure to ionizing radiation may cause a little increase during a person’s lifetime risk of developing cancer. Exposure to radiation is of particular concern in pediatric patients because the cancer risk per unit dose of ionizing radiation is higher for younger patients than adults, and younger patients have an extended lifetime for the consequences of radiation exposure to manifest as cancer. However, in children and adults, the danger from a medically necessary imaging exam is sort of small in comparison to the advantage of accurate diagnosis or intervention. It is especially important to form sure that CT scans in children are performed with appropriate exposure factors, as use of exposure settings designed for adults may result during a larger radiation dose than necessary to supply a useful image for a pediatric patient.

With Regards,
Sara Giselle
Associate Managing Editor
Journal of Medical Physics and Applied Scinces