Cranium Chest And Spine Computerized Axial Tomography

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

• A computed axial tomography scan is also called a CT scan or CAT scan. This procedure takes pictures of parts of your body such as your cranium (skull), chest, and spine. The scan shows bones, tissues, and blood vessels in these body areas. Each picture, also called a slice, shows a few layers of your body tissue at a time. Dye or contrast may be used during the scan to help your tissues and blood vessels show up clearly. A CT scan of the cranium may show brain tumors (growths), or areas in your brain that are not getting enough blood.
  
  
• A chest CT scan can find problems such as a narrow or weak trachea (windpipe), a nodule, or a tumor. A spine CT scan is used to check for fractures of the vertebrae (bones in your spine), or pressure on nerves. If you have been injured, a spine CT can show if the bones of your spine are out of place. Having a CT scan may help caregivers find and learn about a medical problem. A CT scan can help you and your caregiver plan the best treatment for the problem. If you are being treated for a disease or condition, a CT scan can show caregivers if the treatments are working.

INSTRUCTIONS:

Your medicines are:

• Keep a current list of your medicines: Include the amounts, and when, how, and why you take them. Take the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency. Throw away old medicine lists. Use vitamins, herbs, or food supplements only as directed.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed: Call your primary healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not working as expected. Tell him about any medicine allergies, and if you want to quit taking or change your medicine.

Ask for information about where and when to go for follow-up visits:

For continuing care, treatments, or home services, ask for more information.

• Ask caregivers for the results of your CT scan. Ask them to explain the results and your treatment choices in a way that you can understand.
  
  

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• Your skin is itchy, swollen, or has a rash.
  
  
• You have questions about your CT scan.
  
  
• Your signs and symptoms, such as headaches or trouble breathing, are getting worse.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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