Parts of the body that can be examined by CT

• Head and brain.
• Paranasal sinuses/orbits.
• Temporal bones (Ear structure).
• Neck.
• Abdomen/pelvis.
• All joints.
• Extremities.

Common Indications for CT Scans

• Brain.
• Spine.
• Head (excluding brain) and Neck.
• Musculoskeletal System.
• Interventional CT Guided Procedures.

Side effects of CT Scan and X–ray exposure
Some patients may also experience side effects as a result of contrast media reactions. Even though a thin pencil beam X–ray is being used, other parts of the body also receive some scatter radiation during the examination.
As far as possible, pregnant women should not be scanned, especially in the first trimester, unless absolutely indicated. In that situation adequate radiation protection measures should be adopted. After a CT scan, one should watch for signs of delayed reaction to the contrast dye. These include itching, rash, sweating, or difficulty breathing. The person should drink plenty of fluids to rid the body of the dye. CT scanning of the abdomen should not be performed during pregnancy.

Results
This scan shows a darkened area in the brain, which indicates that the blood supply to that area has been blocked. This is confirms the doctor’s initial diagnosis of stroke.

CT scan of brain showing the darkened area in the brain (arrows).