Home » Symptoms of Stroke » CAT scan A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is stopped. There are two kinds of stroke - ischemic stroke and hemorrhagic stroke. In ischemic stroke the blood gets clot which blocks the blood supply. Hemorrhagic stroke happens when a blood vessel breaks and bleeding starts in the brain. To diagnose stroke, CAT scan can be done.

CAT scan or computerized axial tomography scan is commonly known as CT scan. The scan is an x-ray system which combines several x-ray images. It helps to get a three dimensional and cross sectional view of different internal organs of the human body. A CAT scan helps to understand the different parts of the internal organs and it also assist in treatment and placement of instruments. The x-ray images of the different internal organs are taken from different angles. The images taken are then processed by a computer. It helps to get a three dimensional view of body organs.

CAT scan was formerly known as EMI scan. It was known so because it was developed by EMI Central Research Laboratories. In recent times, the EMI Company became well known for its music and recording trade.

History of CAT scan:
Italian radiologist, Alessandro Vallebona, proposed a technique of representing internal body organs on radiographic films. He planned this method during the 30s. This medical test was known as tomography. The whole technique was based on the uncomplicated principles of projective geometry.

A patient who is to undergo CAT scan is suggested not to take solid food. Avoiding food is suggested when contrast material is used. Contrast material can be injected intravenously. It can also be administered by mouth and it helps to increase difference between the various parts of the body. For this reason food and fluid may be restricted for many hours before the CAT scan. If the patient has an allergy towards contrast material then the radiology technician and physician is to be notified. The patient is also asked to remove certain parts of the clothing and also the metallic materials. These substances may obstruct to get a clear image of the internal body organs. Then the patient is placed on a movable table which is then slipped inside the center of a large machine. The donut shaped machine helps to take images of the internal organs of the body. The whole test may require an hours time. In case of special tests such as biopsies, the medical test can require extra time and special monitoring. When a patient is undergoing a CT scan, he or she should remain as still as possible. The patient should not move. This helps to bring more clarity in the x-ray images of the internal body organs. Even the patients are asked to hold his or her breath when abdomen and chest scan is going on.

CAT scan has increased the ability of physicians and doctors to diagnose several diseases in a short time. It is continuously evolving and better and clearer x-ray images can be expected in the near future.

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