CAT scanning (or CT scanning) is a highly accurate medical test that "combines special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body," according to the American College of Radiology. While this painless and noninvasive procedure greatly assists radiologists in diagnosing cardiovascular diseases, musculoskeletal problems, infectious diseases, trauma and certain types of cancer, the CAT scan also carries radiation-induced risks. The San Francisco Examiner reports that over 60 million CAT scans are performed each year in the United States. Here are some pros and cons of this sophisticated technology.
Comprehensiveness
The CAT scan can record images of bone, soft tissue and blood vessels simultaneously, offering clear advantages over standard x-rays, according to the American College of Radiology (ACR). The CAT scans' diagnostic ability can make surgical biopsy or exploratory surgery unnecessary. Its real-time imaging allows CAT scanning to be used to guide needle biopsies and similar procedures. A cardiologist can view "clear 3D images of the coronary arteries without having to do an invasive angiography," according to CBS News.
Speed
Most partial CAT scans take just seconds, and a full scan of the entire body can be completed in about a half-hour. This speed helps in finding internal injuries and internal bleeding quickly enough to help save lives.
Fewer Restrictions than MRI
CAT scans have a less stringent requirement for patients to remain absolutely motionless during the scan as compared to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). CAT scans, unlike MRI, have no prohibition on implanted medical devices.
Concerns over Radiation
According to CBS News, an international study found that levels of radiation emitted by CAT scanners vary widely. At maximum, "patients can be getting radiation equal to 600 chest x-rays," leading to the possibility of lung cancer or breast cancer as a consequence. X-rays also damage DNA itself. Since the federal government has no regulations limiting how much radiation patients may receive during CAT scans, the referring physician decides the strength of the dose. Some authorities estimate that CAT scans cause one percent of cancers in America. According to the Examiner, patients who have had an abdominal CAT scan run a cancer risk of one in 1,000.
Unsuitability for Pregnant Women
The ACR advises that CAT scans are, "in general, not recommended for pregnant women unless medically necessary because of potential risk to the baby." Women should let their doctor and scan technician know if there is any chance they are pregnant. Additionally, whether pregnant or not, women face a higher risk than men since radiation can damage their ovaries. The San Francisco Examiner reports that women in their twenties run a breast cancer risk of approximately one percent from chest CAT scans.
Dangers to Children
Nursing babies are potentially at risk from "contrast material" injected into their mothers before CAT scans, according to the ACR, and a 24-hour waiting period is recommended before resuming breast-feeding. Children are also highly sensitive to radiation and so CAT scans should not be done on children without absolute need.
Overuse of CAT Scans
The San Francisco Examiner reported that as many as one-third of CAT scans "might not be justified," since overuse of this type of testing increases cancer risks for patients. The New England Journal of Medicine linked this overuse of CAT scans to nearly 2 percent of all projected U.S. cancer diagnoses over the next 20 to 30 years.
Member Comments