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A computerized tomography (CT) scan, sometimes referred to as computerized axial tomography (CAT) scan, is a type of imaging test that uses a combination of sophisticated X-ray technology and a computer to create cross-sectional images of the body. The images produced show more detail than a regular X-ray and can show blood vessels, bones, and soft tissues in various parts of the body. The scan can help your doctor detect a variety of diseases and conditions. In a full-body CT scan, the test is used to visualize virtually all parts of the body.
A full-body CT scan can analyze three major areas of the body: the heart, the lungs, and the abdomen. This test is commonly used on those who already have cancer, to see if it has spread to other parts of the body. It is also helpful in an emergency situation to help your doctor examine a major injury. Besides, the test can be used to:
Diagnose disorders of the muscle and the bone, such as fractures and bone tumors
Pinpoint the exact location of an infection, blood clot, or tumor
Detect and monitor diseases and conditions that may be present in your body
Detect internal bleeding and internal injuries.
Your doctor may also recommend a full-body CT scan if you are at a high risk of lung cancer.
During a full-body CT scan, you will have to lie flat on your back on a motorized table that can slide through the doughnut-shaped CT scanner machine. Straps, pillows, and a special cradle may be used to help you stay in the correct position and remain still during the exam. In some cases, a contrast material may be used. It will be injected through an intravenous line (IV) or swallowed.
To determine the correct position for the scans, the table will move quickly through the scanner. Then, during the actual CT scanning, the table will move slowly through the machine and it may take several passes. When the motorized table moves you into the machine, the X-ray tube and detectors will rotate around you. Several images of thin slices of your body are taken in each rotation. The images are then sent to a computer, where they are combined to
The radiographer will operate the machine from a separate room. They can see and hear you, and you will be able to communicate with them during the scan via intercom. They may ask you to hold your breath at certain parts of the scan because you need to stay completely still. Any motion, including body movements and breathing, can blur the scan images. The radiographer may also lower, raise, or tilt the table to create the correct angle for the X-rays.
No anesthesia is involved in a full-body CT scan as it is not painful. However, children who cannot stay still may be sedated.
You may be allowed to leave the hospital on the same day as your full-body CT scan. However, since the results will not be given to you immediately, it is advisable that you stay in Saudi Arabia for 5 to 7 days, or until the results are ready. Once the results are ready, you will have to attend a follow-up appointment to discuss them with your doctor.
Full-body CT scans do not require any recovery time. You can return to your daily activities, go to work, drink, drive, eat, and drink as normal straight away.
If a contrast material is used, you will have to drink lots of fluids to help your kidneys flush out the contrast material from your body. If not, there are no restrictions or special aftercare following the procedure.
A full-body CT scan has the potential to be inaccurate. A cancer diagnosis based on a CT scan has up to 30% inaccuracy rates. In addition, the procedure is not recommended for those without symptoms.
A full-body CT scan carries some potential risks. During the procedure, your body will be exposed to ionizing radiation. While low doses of radiation in the procedure have not been revealed to cause any harm in the long-term, much greater doses may slightly increase your risk of cancer. The procedure can also harm unborn babies. Therefore, make sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant.
In some cases, the contrast material can cause allergic reactions, which may result in a rash or itchiness.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans is the main alternative to a full-body CT scan. MRI scans are currently being evaluated for their possible value in screening. One major benefit of the procedure is that they do not expose you to ionizing radiation. However, they tend to be more expensive than a full-body CT scan.
Before a full-body CT scan, you may experience unexplained symptoms or have a high risk of developing certain diseases. After the procedure, your doctor should find out if there are any abnormalities present in your body. If they do find an abnormality, they may order more imaging procedures to confirm their diagnosis or discuss the best treatment/management plan for you.
Whilst the information presented here has been accurately sourced and verified by a medical professional for its accuracy, it is still advised to consult with your doctor before pursuing a medical treatment at one of the listed medical providers
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The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam and is home to the holy Muslim city of Mecca, all Muslims are required to make a pilgrimage to this city at least once during their life and non-Muslims are forbidden from the city. There are other wonders to be found here, from the Red Sand Dunes in Riyadh, Jeddah’s coral architecture, to the azure waters of the Red Sea. In the last few years, the Kingdom has developed a plan to encourage international patients to seek treatment at its medical centers. The healthcare sector in the country has constantly improved and developed and the country has all the attributes to have a successful medical tourism industry, such as ultra-modern hospitals that are well-equipped with cutting-edge technology, foreign-trained doctors and specialists, and a well-established private healthcare sector.
The capital city is Riyadh, which is one of the wealthiest cities in the world. It offers amazing attractions for tourists, such as the Masmak Fortress, the National Museum, the Kingdom Center, the Sky Bridge, Riyadh Zoo, and the Antiquities Museum. Another popular city is Jeddah, which is called the Bride of the Red Sea. It’s a large metropolitan city with an incredible waterfront and beautiful old town. It’s the traditional gateway to Mecca, as well as the historic crossroads of traders and pilgrims. Most tourists visit this city to admire its World Heritage Red Sea architecture, explore its lively souq, relax in its laid-back coastline, and try its world-class cuisine.
King Fahd International Airport is the largest airport in Saudi Arabia, located in the city of Dammam. It serves flights to and from numerous cities in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Domestic flights are the best way to travel around this country. Buses, taxis, and car rental are widely available for travel inside the cities.
Almost all nationalities need to have a visa to visit Saudi Arabia, except for citizens of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and the UAE. eVisa or visa on arrival is available for holders of passports of 51 countries, including all EU countries, the US, the UK, and Japan. Most other countries need to obtain a visa prior to arrival.
Saudi Arabia has two seasons, summer and winter. Summer (April – October). The weather is extremely hot and humid. The average temperatures range between 40oC to 45oC, but it can soar to 49oC. Winter, from November to March, brings mild temperatures, with an average of 20oC during the day and 10oC during the night.