Difference Between CT Scan and CAT Scan (With Table)

CT scans are preferred over normal X-rays because they provide detailed intricate information through images. CT scan is widely used to examine internal injuries. The function of city scan is not only limited to examination purposes but also to diagnose, plan treatments that can be surgical, medical, or of the radiation type.

While CAT scans were also known as EMI. The name was based on the name of the equipment that was used for scanning purposes. The images taken are of a series and are from various angles of the body. The process was used back in history and hence is less advanced.

Comparison Table Between CT scan and CAT scan

What is CT Scan?

Computed Tomography scan is known as CT Scan. The scan consists of a series of images of X-ray. The images are taken from various angles around the body. CT scan extensively uses various computer processing which helps in the creation of images that are cross-sectional like slices of various parts like blood vessels, bones, soft tissues, and other organs of the body.

CT scans are preferred over normal X-rays because they provide detailed intricate information through images. CT scan is widely used to examine internal injuries. The function of city scan is not only limited to examination purposes but also to diagnose, plan treatments that can be surgical, medical, or of the radiation type. It helps in determining procedures for different therapies and biopsies.

CT scan helps in finding out the location of tumors, blood clots, fractures, or other infections. The effectiveness of various treatments like cancer treatments can be effectively monitored through a CT scan. Before a CT scan, patients are given a contrast material that is a special dye through mouth, injection, or enema depending upon the target area. The contrast material helps in highlighting the target area.

The scanners usually have a doughnut shape where the patient is lying on the narrow table and is slid through the opening of the tunnel. The patient is kept still with the help of various straps and other equipment. A technologist can constantly communicate with the patient during the scan. CT scan has potential risks involved like exposure to ionizing radiation which can be cancerous, can harm unborn babies, and cause various reactions to the contrast material.

What is CAT Scan?

Computerised Axial Tomography or Computered Axial Tomography is known as CAT scan. The scanning procedure is painless, takes a moderate amount of time, and produces images using X-rays. The images taken are of a series and are from various angles of the body. The process was used back in history and hence is less advanced.

CAT scans are ideally done at a radiology clinic. Patients are advised do not to eat or drink before the scanning and remove all the metal objects that can cause hindrance in the image production. CT scans use a thin and narrow beam of X-rays that revolves around one part of the body the images produced to provide a cross-sectional picture of the parts. It consists of two-dimensional images like a slide of the part of the body.

CAT scans were also known as EMI. The name was based on the name of the equipment that was used for scanning purposes. The slightest movement can blur the image produced. This is the reason, patients are asked to stay still or hold their breath during the scanning. The table has straps, cradles, and other equipment to make the body of the patient stay still during the scanning process.

CAT scans were used earlier. It usually took around 45 minutes to an hour for complete scanning the equipment was less advanced and the process was new in the medical domain. CAT scans are used for determining various problems like fractures in the bone or joint, tumors, hard diseases, cancer, liver masses, emphysema, blood clot, internal bleeding or injuries, excess fluid, and various other types of infections. It helps the professionals and specialists to provide a guided plan for treatment and eat immediate procedures which can include radiation therapy or surgery and biopsies.

Main Differences Between CT Scan and CAT Scan

1. CT scans are a newer and more advanced scanning process while CAT scans are older and less advanced scanning processes.
2. CT scans are not known by any other name while CAT scans were also known as EMI.
3. CT scan stands for Computed Demography while CAT stand stands for Computerised Axial Tomography or Computered Axial Tomography.
4. CT scans are a fast and painless process while CAT scan comparatively take time for scanning.
5. CT scans involve contrast material or a special dye while CAT scans may or may not involve the contrast material in the scanning process.

Conclusion

Diagnostic imaging plays a vital role in the medical domain. It provides intricate details And in formation about the target area. It helps the professionals to create a treatment plan and also check on the growth and effectiveness of any ongoing treatment.

The two most common types of scans are – CT scans and CAT scans. Both the scans have their functionalities and criteria. The professionals and specialists recommend the scans depending upon the type and need of the body. The scans provide valuable insights and are accurate.

References

1. https://europepmc.org/article/med/2801096
2. https://journals.lww.com/jbjsjournal/Citation/1978/60080/Computerized_tomography__CAT_scan,_CT_scan__in.13.aspx