CT Scans: An Explanation
Ever had a CT scan but not sure what it really is? Just want to find out more about them? This is our simplified guide to a CT scan.
A CT scan is a test designed to take pictures of the inside of your body, but in slices, rather than straight on, like an X-Ray. They take images of cross-sections.
Put simply, if your body was a loaf of bread, and an X-Ray took a picture of the whole loaf, a CT scan takes pictures of the individual slices, giving you a more detailed view of the whole loaf.
Computed Tomography scans are used by doctors to help diagnose health conditions, or to see if a treatment is working.
Brain Injury
Infections
Lung Conditions
CT scans can detect bleeding on the brain, swelling, bruising, and other brain traumas.
In cases of infection, complex infections may not always be detected by simple X-Rays. In these cases, a CT scan can be performed to help diagnose infections that are not visible otherwise.
CT scans can provide very detailed images of lung structures, helping doctors to diagnose lung conditions such as lung disease, and pulmonary embolisms.
Stroke
Internal Bleeding
Bone Fractures
If a stroke is suspected, a CT scan is the first test to be performed, as it can identify what kind of stroke it is, helping with treatment.
Internal bleeding can become very serious, very quickly. CT scans are especially helpful at spotting the root cause of internal bleeding.
X-Rays are generally used to diagnosed broken bones and fractures, however if it’s a particularly complex fracture, a CT can be very helpful in providing a detailed overview.
Cancer
Abdominal or Pelvic Issues
CT scans are often done to diagnose cancers and to track the growth of tumours and surrounding tissue.
Abdominal issues such as appendicitis, kidney stones and bladder issues can all be diagnosed with CT scans.
CT scans can also be used when doctors are doing a biopsy, to help them see clearer during the procedure.
Although they are similar to x-rays, CT scans are more detailed, and are used to spot abnormalities in soft tissue rather than bone.
During a CT scan, you may be given a special dye that will help doctors to differentiate between parts of your body. This dye can be ingested or injected directly into the vein. (Poslusny, 2026)
This article provides general information only and is not medical advice. If you have concerns about your health, please speak to a healthcare professional.
References
Poslusny, C., 2026. Common uses and reasons for a CT scan. [Online]
Available at: https://www.newchoicehealth.com/ct-scan/uses
[Accessed 24th March 2026].
