Radiology Associates of Ocala has the latest, most advanced technology to benefit patients by offering your physician quality images to assist in your personal diagnosis and treatment plan. Computed Tomography (CT), commonly known as a Cat Scan, is used to look inside your body using cross-sectional images. The CT scanner has a large ring and the x-ray tube rotates around you 360 degrees, taking a picture or "slice". The computer then creates this picture onto a computer screen and "hard copy" photographs can be taken to record findings.

All of Radiology Associates CT 's are helical CT's. With helical CT, the quality of the image is greatly enhanced, providing a faster, higher quality image with less radiation exposure. With conventional CT, small lesions may frequently go undetected. The speed of helical scanning increases the rate of lesion detection.

To assist in this process, a contrast agent is often used. By injecting this solution into the body, we can better visualize organs and structures that might not be seen otherwise. Contrast may or may not be needed in your particular case.

Unlike other imaging methods, CT scanning offers detailed views of many types of tissue, including the lungs, bones, soft tissues and blood vessels. During the exam, you will lie on a table, and it will slowly move in order for the x-ray to image the entire area. You will be asked not to move, and to hold your breath while each x-ray picture is taken. CT scanning causes no pain, and with the helical CT, the need to lie still for any length of time is reduced.

At Radiology Associates of Ocala, helical CT is offered at 3 convenient locations: Medical Imaging Center , Medical Imaging Center at Windsor Oaks, and TimberRidge Imaging Center. .