CT Scans

At Tellica Imaging, we offer a comprehensive suite of CT scans, using brand-new machines and cutting-edge technology to deliver detailed images of your body’s internal structures. A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is an effective diagnostic tool that uses x-rays to create precise cross-sectional views of your body.

Unlike traditional x-rays, CT scans provide exceptional detail, allowing healthcare providers to pinpoint abnormalities and diagnose a wide range of medical conditions.

At Tellica Imaging, we offer a wide variety of CT scans to meet all your diagnostic needs.

Case Example - Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, impacting approximately 695,000 persons annually. At Tellica Imaging, we have built a comprehensive cardiovascular program, which leverages our state-of-the-art CT scanners to discover critical medical information for providers. 

In Idaho and New Hampshire, we have established a coronary calcium score program to score the extent of plaque and quantify the risk of heart disease. 

These CTs are quick, painless, and non-invasive tests that are critical for heart health, especially for those with familiar histories of cardiovascular complications. 

What is a CT scan?

A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses x-rays to create detailed cross-sectional pictures of your body. Imagine taking a slice of bread and seeing all the inside details like crumbs and air pockets. A CT scan does something similar but for your body.

It uses a narrow beam of radiation, similar to a regular x-ray machine. However, in a CT scan, the x-ray source and detectors rotate around you, capturing images from multiple angles.

These x-ray images are then fed into a powerful computer, which uses complex algorithms to process the data and create a comprehensive 3D picture of your body’s internal structures.

In some cases, a contrast-enhanced CT scan is performed, where a contrast dye (typically iodine-based) is injected into a vein in your arm. The circulating dye in your bloodstream helps enhance the visibility of blood vessels and certain organs.

Once the contrast dye reaches the target area, it absorbs x-rays differently than surrounding tissues. This difference in absorption allows the CT scan to create a clearer image of those structures. For example, blood vessels show up brighter with contrast, making it easier to detect blockages or abnormalities.

Advantages of CT Scans

Compared to traditional x-rays, CT scans offer multiple advantages. Our advanced CT scanners capture intricate images, revealing unmatched detail on the most minute detail about your bones, organs, muscles, and blood vessels.

CT scans are also remarkably fast, often taking just minutes to complete, minimizing discomfort and maximizing efficiency. Many CT scans are entirely non-invasive, requiring no needles or incisions. Our experienced technologists prioritize your comfort throughout the entire process. 

Risks of CT Scans

While CT scans are a safe and valuable diagnostic tool, they have some potential risks, such as exposure to radiation and the use of contrast dye. 

There's a small risk of allergic reactions to contrast dye, especially with iodine-based dyes. If you have any allergies, be sure to inform your provider before undergoing a contrast scan. 

For those with known kidney issues, high blood pressure, or diabetes, we provide a free estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) laboratory test to check organ function prior to contrast administration. 

If you are pregnant or believe you may be pregnant, please let our team know and we will provide a free test prior to the CT to ensure the health and safety of you and your child.

Discuss these risks with your provider to determine if a CT scan is right for you.

Our Range of CT Scan Services

At Tellica Imaging, we offer a comprehensive suite of CT scans designed to provide detailed anatomical information for a wide range of medical conditions.  Our state-of-the-art CT scanners and experienced technologists ensure a comfortable and efficient experience.

Neurological & Head CT Scans

A neurological and head CT scan utilizes advanced imaging technology to capture intricate cross-sectional views of your brain, skull, sinuses, and surrounding structures. This non-invasive examination plays a vital role in diagnosing and evaluating a variety of neurological conditions, including:

  • Assessing internal bleeding, fractures, and other complications following a head injury
  • Identifying areas of the brain damaged by stroke (tissue death) or TIAs (temporary blockages of blood flow)
  • Detecting tumors, cysts, and other lesions within the brain
  • Differentiating between various infections affecting the brain or spinal cord

If you are experiencing any concerning neurological symptoms, a neurological and head CT scan may be a valuable tool for your healthcare provider to make an accurate diagnosis and guide your treatment plan.

Chest CT Scans

A chest CT scan offers a comprehensive view of your chest cavity, including your lungs, heart, airways, and surrounding structures. This painless procedure is instrumental in diagnosing and evaluating a wide range of chest conditions, such as:

  • Identifying lung infections and their severity
  • Detecting lung nodules and abnormalities that may be cancerous
  • Visualizing coronary artery disease, heart valve abnormalities, and other cardiac issues
  • Detecting blood clots lodged in the arteries of the lungs
  • Assessing lung damage associated with these chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD)

A chest CT scan can provide crucial information for your healthcare provider to diagnose chest pain, shortness of breath, cough, or other symptoms.

Abdominal & Pelvic CT Scans

An abdominal and pelvic CT scan generates detailed cross-sectional images of your abdomen, pelvis, digestive system, and associated organs. This non-invasive scan is a powerful tool for diagnosing and evaluating a variety of conditions within the abdomen and pelvis, including:

  • Identifying inflammation of the appendix
  • Detecting the presence, location, and size of kidney stones
  • Investigating the source of abdominal pain
  • Assessing abnormalities in the liver
  • Identifying and characterizing tumors or cysts within the pelvic region
  • Visualizing inflammation in the bowel wall associated with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis

If you are experiencing abdominal pain, pelvic pain, changes in bowel habits, or other concerning symptoms in your abdomen or pelvis, an abdominal and pelvic CT scan may be a valuable tool for your provider to reach a diagnosis.

Vascular CT Scans

A vascular CT scan uses advanced imaging technology to create detailed images of the blood vessels throughout your body. This non-invasive examination plays a vital role in diagnosing and evaluating various vascular conditions, including:

  • Detecting blood clots in arteries or veins
  • Identifying weak and bulging areas in the walls of blood vessels
  • Diagnosing abnormal connections between arteries and veins
  • Assessing blockages or narrowing of arteries in the legs
  • Providing detailed information for planning procedures like angioplasty or stent placement

If you have risk factors for vascular disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or smoking, a vascular CT scan may be needed to assess your vascular health and identify potential problems.

Musculoskeletal & Spine CT Scans

A musculoskeletal and spine CT scan offers a detailed view of your bones, muscles, joints, and spine. This non-invasive examination is a valuable tool for diagnosing and evaluating musculoskeletal conditions, including:

  • Identifying bone fractures
  • Diagnosing arthritis

Offer detailed images of your bones, muscles, joints, and spine, aiding in diagnosing fractures, arthritis, bone tumors, and other musculoskeletal conditions.

Schedule Your CT Scan Today

Our team of experienced healthcare professionals will work with you to determine the most appropriate CT scan for your specific needs. Whether you're experiencing neurological symptoms, chest pain, abdominal pain, or musculoskeletal concerns, don't wait to get the answers you need.

Visit us at any of our convenient locations and our friendly staff is here to answer your questions and guide you through the scheduling process. To schedule an imaging test at any of our locations, please call us today.

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