Difference Between CT Scan and CAT Scan

Sometimes thought to be different types of diagnostic tests, they actually refer to the same X-ray procedure. CAT stands for “computed axial tomography” and CT is simply “computed tomography.” CAT scan was the first of the two terms to be used; CT scan has become more common in recent years.

1. Is a CT scan the same thing as a CAT scan?
2. What is a CAT scan used to diagnose?
3. What can a CT scan not detect?
4. Why would a doctor order a CT scan?
5. What is a drawback to using a CT scan?
6. Which is better a CT scan or MRI?
7. Do you get CT scan results immediately?
8. Is CT scan painful?
9. What is a CT scan like for the patient?
10. Can you see inflammation on a CT scan?
11. Can a CT scan detect bowel problems?
12. Do all tumors show up on CT scans?

Is a CT scan the same thing as a CAT scan?

What are CT scans? A CT scan is a form of X-raying that involves a large X-ray machine. CT scans are sometimes called CAT scans.

What is a CAT scan used to diagnose?

CT scans can detect bone and joint problems, like complex bone fractures and tumors. If you have a condition like cancer, heart disease, emphysema, or liver masses, CT scans can spot it or help doctors see any changes. They show internal injuries and bleeding, such as those caused by a car accident.

What can a CT scan not detect?

Where MRI really excels is showing certain diseases that a CT scan cannot detect. Some cancers, such as prostate cancer, uterine cancer, and certain liver cancers, are pretty much invisible or very hard to detect on a CT scan. Metastases to the bone and brain also show up better on an MRI.

Why would a doctor order a CT scan?

Your doctor may recommend a CT scan to help: Diagnose muscle and bone disorders, such as bone tumors and fractures. Pinpoint the location of a tumor, infection or blood clot. Guide procedures such as surgery, biopsy and radiation therapy.

What is a drawback to using a CT scan?

In general, a CT scan has the advantage of short study time (15 to 20 minutes) with high quality images. However, disadvantages include the need for ra- diation exposure and the use of a contrast material (dye) in most cases, which may make it inappropriate for patients with significant kidney problems.

Which is better a CT scan or MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging produces clearer images compared to a CT scan. In instances when doctors need a view of soft tissues, an MRI is a better option than x-rays or CTs. MRIs can create better pictures of organs and soft tissues, such as torn ligaments and herniated discs, compared to CT images.

Do you get CT scan results immediately?

CT Scans are one of the few tests where your doctor or radiology can receive test results nearly immediately. Your radiologists will review and interpret your CT scan as soon as it's completed.

Is CT scan painful?

Will It Hurt? CT scan is a painless exam. Patients who are receiving Intravenous Contrast Dye (also known as IVP Dye) may experience a warm sensation, metallic taste, and or the feeling of urination.

What is a CT scan like for the patient?

The CT scan itself is painless. You cannot see or feel X-rays. You will be asked to stay as still as possible, as otherwise the scan pictures may be blurred. Conventional CT scans can take between 5-30 minutes, depending on which part (or parts) of the body is being scanned.

Can you see inflammation on a CT scan?

A CT scan can reveal a tumor in the abdomen, and any swelling or inflammation in nearby internal organs. It can show any lacerations of the spleen, kidneys, or liver.

Can a CT scan detect bowel problems?

Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen and pelvis is a diagnostic imaging test used to help detect diseases of the small bowel, colon and other internal organs and is often used to determine the cause of unexplained pain. CT scanning is fast, painless, noninvasive and accurate.

Do all tumors show up on CT scans?

CT scans can show a tumor's shape, size, and location. They can even show the blood vessels that feed the tumor – all in a non-invasive setting. By comparing CT scans done over time, doctors can see how a tumor is responding to treatment or find out if the cancer has come back after treatment.