CAT scan
Computed Axial Tomography (CAT scan) is a process of using computers to generate three dimensional images from a flat two dimensional X rays pictures through the 'slice' technique. Aided by computer, cross-sectional views are generated and if needed three dimensional images of the internal organs and structures of the body. In CAT scan the body is seen in 'slices' from the skin to the central part of the body. When all the levels (slices) are added together, a three dimensional picture of an organ is obtained. Together the cross sections give a very accurate picture of where the tumor is and how big or small it is. They also show how close the major body organs are to the area that needs to be treated or operated upon. A CAT scan can be used to define both the normal and abnormal structures the body. It also helps as an accurate guide in placement of instruments and treatments for undergoing procedures.
- The head is examined for trauma injuries, such as blood clots or skull fractures.
- Spine is studied for any infections and to check the anatomy of intervertebral discs and spinal cord.
- Density of the bone in evaluating osteoporosis is also accurately measured by CAT scan.
- CAT scans are used in the chest to identify tumors, cysts or infections.
- CAT scans of the abdomen are helpful in defining body organ anatomy, including visualizing liver, gall bladder, pancreas, spleen, aorta, kidneys, uterus and ovaries. Also CAT scans help to verify the presence or absence of tumors, infection, abnormal anatomy or changes in the body from trauma.
- CAT scans help to guide the radiologist in performing certain procedures such as biopsyand suspected cancers, removal of internal fluids for various tests.
Many of the procedures in CAT scan are minimally invasive. CAT scan is very low risk procedure. The amount of radiation in CAT scan is very minimal. Unlike MRI, CT scans can be done even if the patient has a pace maker or an internal cardio inverter defibrillator devices implanted into the chest to help regulate the heart beat. CAT scan may pose a potential risk to the fetus during the first trimester of pregnancy. Sometimes in contrast studies using iodine-based, there may be itching, a rash, hives or a feeling of warmth throughout the body. But these reactions tend to go away quickly. Very rarely does a more serious reaction occur during intravenous contrast studies. This anaphylactic reaction results in severe hives and/or difficulty in breathing.
Benefits of CAT Scan
- Diagnose muscle and bone disorders such as bone tumors and fractures
- Pinpoint the location of tumor, infection and blood clot
- Guide certain procedures in surgery
- Detect and monitor diseases such as cancer or heart disease
- Detect internal injuries and internal bleeding.
Pelvic Fracture
Fractures of the pelvis account only for about 0.3-6% of all fractures. A pelvic fracture can simply be described as a break in one or more bones comprising the pelvis. Pelvic fracture is a serious condition and requires immediate medical intervention.
- The worst pelvic fractures are caused by high-speed accidents such as car accidents or motorcycle accidents or falls from high places, which have major impact on the body. The greater the force, the more severe the fracture. Depending upon the direction and degree of the force, these injuries can be life threatening.
- Other injuries such as broken bones or damage to liver, kidneys or other organs.
- Pelvic fracture also occurs in people with osteoporosis.
- Pelvic fracture occurs among teens, involved in sports and athletic activities such as football, hockey, skiing and long distance running. These fractures occur with sudden muscle contractions.
- Pelvic fracture is usually caused by falls in elderly people, especially when getting out of a bathtub or descending stairs.
Symptoms of pelvic fracture include severe pain in the groin, hip or lower back area. The pain is bound to worsen when moving the legs. There may be pain in the abdomen and numbness and tingling sensation in the groin or legs. Bleeding from the vagina, urethra or rectum is often noticed with pelvic fractures. There may be difficulty in urinating and difficulty in walking or standing.
Types of Pelvic fractures
Stable or unstable pelvic fractures: In stable pelvic fracture, there is minimal hemorrhage. The break occurs in one point in the pelvic ring. In unstable pelvic fracture, the pelvis becomes unstable. The break occurs in two or more break points in the pelvic ring. There occurs moderate to severe hemorrhage.
Open or closed pelvic fractures: If open skin wound occurs during the fracture in the lower abdomen, it is called open pelvic fracture. If no skin wounds occur, then it is closed pelvic fracture.
Diagnostic tests such as x-rays, CT scans are used to diagnose pelvic fractures. MRI allow a detailed picture of the pelvic area. Abdominal ultrasound is used to find internal bleeding and other injuries within the abdomen. Urethrography may be conducted to check injuries in urethra by means of an injected dye. Arteriography, in which dye is injected in the arteries to check for internal bleeding within the pelvis, is sometimes used.
Treatment to the pelvic fracture depends upon the severity of the injury caused. A pelvic fracture is a serious injury. In some cases, it may be complicated with injuries in other parts of the body and severe shock as well. Sometimes severe internal and external bleeding and damage to the internal organs could occur. In these situations, immediate attempt is made by the emergency doctor to stop internal and external bleeding caused by the injury. In case of minor fracture, the treatment would merely consist of bed rest and painkillers.
Most of the times, surgery is undertaken to repair the pelvic fracture. Healing after surgery can take anywhere between few weeks to several months. Thus a lengthy rehabilitation becomes necessary after an extensive pelvic surgery. Vasculitis
Vasculitis is an autoimmune condition where the blood vessels are inflamed. This inflammation narrows the blood vessels thereby making circulation difficult. This causes the vessels to stretch and weaken leading to a chance of internal bleeding. In some situations, the blood vessels might weaken and form a bulge or aneurysm. This can be life-threatening. Typical symptoms of Vasculitis include fever, swelling and pain in affected tissues. While some persons suffer few symptoms, others are badly affected. Chronic vasculitis can only be controlled with long-term medications but it remains active. When vasculitis affects the skin, a person develops bruises, hives or itchy red spots. For persons who suffer vasculitis in the joints, arthritis or joint aches are common. Vasculitis can affect the gastrointestinal tract, lungs, sinuses, eyes or throat. Those who suffer vasculitis in the brain experience headaches, paralysis and muscle weakness. Urine tests for raised protein levels and RBCs might help in identifying vasculitis. X-rays and ultrasounds of affected organs are done to detect inflamed blood vessels. Steroids might be prescribed to control inflammation. Immunosuppresant drugs or cytotoxic drugs are also used to treat vasculitis.
Bibliography / Reference
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