Computed Tomographs (called CT scans)
Computed axial tomographic scanning, called CT or CAT
scanning, couples X-rays with a powerful computer. The
resulting images give us a very clear look at body
structures from a different perspective than standard
radiographs.
Imagine slicing a carrot into many circular or coin
shaped pieces. If you pick up one of the pieces, you are
able to look at the inside of the carrot in a way not
previously possible. This is called a cross sectional
view. The CT scan does the same thing for us with human
structures. The good news is that no real slicing needs
to occur. The X-rays and computer takes care of that for
us.
With this procedure cross sectional images can be
made of virtually any part of the body. This type of
scanning revolutionized our ability to image body parts
and the scanners keep getting better and better.
Like standard X-rays, CT scans don't hurt. Sometimes
the machines are a bit loud and some patients feel a bit
cramped, but overall the experience is well tolerated.
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Computed Tomographs (CT Scans) 
