Many people use X-ray and CT scan interchangeably, but they are actually two different things. Each one has its own benefits and drawbacks, and each can do different things for different people. Therefore, it is important to understand those differences so you can make an educated decision as to what you need in Riverhead NY.
Differences You Will Notice
A regular X-ray can show a lot, especially for broken bones. It can also identify types of cancers that are the size of a dime, which is imperative. However, low dose CT scans can actually reveal problems that are as small as a grain of rice.
This is actually more beneficial than a regular X-ray, because it is best to find a tumor or problem when it is smaller. This means you will have a better chance to beat the cancer and may have to have fewer treatments.
One other difference is that, with traditional X-rays, it will generally take five or 10 minutes to completely the procedure. With a low-dose CT, it will usually take less than a minute.
What to Expect
Whether you have a traditional scan or a low-dose scan, you will notice that it is quick and painless. It is also a noninvasive approach to finding different types of cancer. There are no dyes or injections required, as with PET scans and others, and you don’t have to swallow anything to complete the scan.
As with both scans, you will undress and lie down on the CT machine table with an arm or both over your head. However, with a low-dose scan, the table of the machine is moved while the machine takes images of your body. With a regular X-ray, the machine is smaller and is moved to a particular part of the body. If a large area must be x-rayed, it can be more difficult to do.
Risks
Many tests that are used for diagnosing problems have some sort of risk involved, and CT scans are no different. However, because it is a low dose scan, it has a lot less radiation than a standard scan (X-ray) and typically uses about five times less radiation than a traditional one. This means that having one low-dose scan is equivalent to having 15 traditional X-rays.
This is usually the only risk associated with these particular tests.
Having a low-dose CT in Riverhead, NY can be a better alternative than traditional scans. Once you and your doctor decide, visit North Fork Radiology to have your tests done.
