Computer Tomography

Computerised Tomography or CT is a cross sectional xray performed with a computerised xray scanning machine.   To produce the scan, a narrow beam of xrays is rotated around the patient in tandem with an array of sensitive detectors.  A computer is used to measure the amount of xrays passing through your body.  CT scans can show several types of tissue with great clarity such as bone, soft tissue and blood vessels and allows easy differentiation between soft tissue structures. CT scans can detect and determine the exact size and location of abnormalities. The images produced are generally of cross-sectional nature, with multiple scans creating the ability to produce 3-D images of internal structures.  

Our system at Sydney Xray Bondi Junction is a Philips iCT 256 detector machine that produces the highest resolution images available. Common CT scans include the spine, abdomen, chest and brain. Often there will be an injection of contrast media (dye) that helps to further differentiate the soft tissue structures.