CT Scan
Definition
A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer processing to create detailed cross-sectional images of the body's internal structures, including bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues. It helps doctors diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, injuries, and diseases.
Related Specialists
Showing 3 of 151
Related Fact Sheets
Related Departments
Abdominal Imaging
The breadth of experience among our doctors is reflected in their unique approach to patient care, management of complex medical cases, expertise in imaging guidelines and unwavering commitment to clinical excellence. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical test that physicians use to diagnose and treat medical conditions. It uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures. An MRI does not use radiation. A computed tomography scan, more commonly known as a CT scan, is a diagnostic medical test that produces multiple images of the inside of the body. The cross-sectional images generated during a CT scan can be reformatted in multiple planes, and can even generate three-dimensional images of internal body structures. We also specialize in fluoroscopic imaging—real-time moving pictures displayed on a monitor. This specialized technology helps us detect conditions that affect the gastrointestinal as well as the urinary and reproductive (genitourinary) tracts. Our experts perform esophagrams, upper GI series and barium enemas to look for swallowing and digestion conditions. In addition, we do a variety of other imaging tests, including cystograms to detect voiding issues and hysterosalpingograms, which help us see if a woman’s fallopian tubes are open or blocked.Musculoskeletal Imaging
Our highly specialized physicians perform and evaluate a comprehensive range of imaging exams for adults and children. Our services cover a wide variety of areas including trauma, arthritis, joint replacements, as well as disorders and injuries of the spine, foot, and ankle. We are committed to providing compassionate care to all of our patients and we use the safest and most advanced imaging techniques available.Bone & Soft Tissue Pathology
The Bone & Soft Tissue Pathology team, composed of one pathologist for the Yale New Haven Hospital and Saint Raphael Campus site and one pathologist for Bridgeport Hospital, provides consultative services for all clinicians concerned with disease of the musculoskeletal system. At the Bone & Soft Tissue Pathology Service, we examine all diagnostic and resection specimens using gross, microscopic, and advanced techniques to probe protein expression and genetic alterations harbored in the patient’s somatic tissues. The data resulting from examination of the specimens is often interpreted in the context of the clinical presentation and the results of diagnostic imaging studies. For complex tumor cases, a weekly multidisciplinary tumor board is held to make informed decisions on treatment and follow up of the patient.