Computed Tomography (CT), also known as CAT scan, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain images from different angles and then joins them together to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs. Launched in the 1970´s, it marked a turning point in the study and diagnosis of several pathologies.

CT scanning provides more detailed information on tumors, vascular accidents and brain diseases than conventional ex-rays, thus contributing to more accurate medical diagnosis.

According to Dr. Maria del Pilar Estrada, head of the Radiology Department at the Ernesto Guevara Hospital, neurosurgery, pneumology, and oncology are specialties benefited from the CT process.

Dr. Estrada pointed out that in the case of brain diseases and injuries CT substitutes invasive procedures, which are painful and likely to cause complications.

She also noted that this modern technology allows for a more accurate diagnosis of lung cancer, a high-incidence pathology. In the case of patients with neoplasy, CT makes possible the study of several organs to determine whether they have been affected.

Before the equipment was available in Las Tunas patients from the province’s eight municipalities had to travel to Holguin and Camaguey.

Furthermore, in early December, two additional CT sacanners were installed in the cities of Bayamo and Manzanillo in the eastern Cuban province of Granma.

By: Periodico26