Known commonly as CT or CAT scan, computed tomography employs x-rays often in combination with contrast media to create an image of soft and bony tissues inside the body. CT is a more specific method to image the structures that are difficult to see with ultrasound such as lungs, skeletal structures and the gastrointestinal tract. As with ultrasound, CT can detect structural abnormalities of the chest, abdomen, and neck in addition to the spine and head. Like ultrasound, certain abnormalities can also be detected with CT but computed tomography is superior to ultrasound in assessing vasculature both normal and abnormal. Additionally with the combination of CT and contrast media, studies that highlight abnormal shunting of vessels, ectopia in the urinary tract and abnormal contrast uptake can be performed.
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