When CT scans are used

CT scans can produce detailed images of many structures inside the body, including the internal organs, blood vessels and bones.

They can be used to:

  • diagnose conditions includingdamage tobones,injuries to internal organs, problems with blood flow,strokesandcancer
  • guidefurther tests or treatments for example, CT scans can help to determine the location, size and shape of a tumour before having radiotherapy, or allow a doctor totake aneedle biopsy (where a small tissue sample is removed using a needle) or drain anabscess
  • monitor conditions including checking the size of tumours during and after cancer treatment

CT scanswouldn't normally be used to check for problems if you don't have any symptoms (known as screening). This is becausethe benefits of screening may not outweigh the risks, particularly if it leads tounnecessary testing andanxiety.

Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018