Diagnostic investigations. Part 2. Computerised tomography

Computerised tomography (CT) is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure for examining soft tissue. The radiographic scan takes hundreds of X-ray pictures via a revolving camera; the pictures are fed into a computer and an image in cross section is displayed on screen. The procedure can provide visualisation of grey matter, necrotic tissue and tumours, conditions such as pancreatic cancer, and injuries to the liver, kidneys or spleen. This article provides an explanation of the procedure, its uses and related safety issues.