A1 noun Neutral

CT scan

/ˌsiːˈtiː skæn/

A CT scan is a medical test that uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed pictures of the inside of the body. It helps doctors see bones, organs, and tissues clearly to find health problems.

Examples

3 of 5
1

The doctor says I need a CT scan for my head.

The doctor says I need a CT scan for my head.

2

Please ensure the patient has undergone a CT scan before the consultation.

Please ensure the patient has undergone a CT scan before the consultation.

3

I have to get a CT scan later to check my leg.

I have to get a CT scan later to check my leg.

Word Family

Noun
CT scan
Verb
scan
Adjective
tomographic
Related
scanner
💡

Memory Tip

Think of the 'C' in CT as 'Computer' and the 'T' as 'Total' because it gives a total computer-aided view of your body.

Quick Quiz

The doctor wants to see my internal organs, so she ordered a ____ scan.

Correct!

The correct answer is: CT

Examples

1

The doctor says I need a CT scan for my head.

everyday

The doctor says I need a CT scan for my head.

2

Please ensure the patient has undergone a CT scan before the consultation.

formal

Please ensure the patient has undergone a CT scan before the consultation.

3

I have to get a CT scan later to check my leg.

informal

I have to get a CT scan later to check my leg.

4

CT scans provide higher resolution images compared to standard radiography.

academic

CT scans provide higher resolution images compared to standard radiography.

5

The hospital invested in a new CT scan machine to improve diagnostic speed.

business

The hospital invested in a new CT scan machine to improve diagnostic speed.

Word Family

Noun
CT scan
Verb
scan
Adjective
tomographic
Related
scanner

Common Collocations

have a CT scan have a CT scan
order a CT scan order a CT scan
CT scan results CT scan results
schedule a CT scan schedule a CT scan
perform a CT scan perform a CT scan

Common Phrases

clear CT scan

clear CT scan

undergo a CT scan

undergo a CT scan

emergency CT scan

emergency CT scan

Often Confused With

CT scan vs MRI

An MRI uses magnets and radio waves, while a CT scan uses X-rays.

CT scan vs X-ray

A standard X-ray is a flat 2D image, while a CT scan creates 3D 'slices' of the body.

📝

Usage Notes

Use 'a CT scan' (not 'an') because the letter 'C' is pronounced with a consonant sound (/siː/). It is a countable noun used frequently with the verbs 'have' or 'get'.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often forget the word 'scan' and just say 'I had a CT,' but 'CT scan' is the full, correct term.

💡

Memory Tip

Think of the 'C' in CT as 'Computer' and the 'T' as 'Total' because it gives a total computer-aided view of your body.

📖

Word Origin

CT stands for Computed Tomography; 'tomography' comes from the Greek 'tomos' (slice) and 'graphein' (to write).

Grammar Patterns

Countable noun (plural: CT scans) Used with 'a' or 'the' Commonly follows 'to have', 'to get', or 'to undergo'
🌍

Cultural Context

In many developed healthcare systems, a CT scan is a routine diagnostic tool for trauma and internal pain.

Quick Quiz

The doctor wants to see my internal organs, so she ordered a ____ scan.

Correct!

The correct answer is: CT

More medicine words

surgeon

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A surgeon is a specially trained doctor who performs operations on patients. They use tools to cut into the body to repair damage, remove diseased parts, or improve health.

psychologist

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A psychologist is a professional who studies the human mind and behavior. They help people understand their feelings and solve emotional problems through talking and therapy.

anesthesiologist

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A doctor who gives patients medicine so they do not feel pain during surgery. They also monitor the patient's breathing and heart rate while the patient is asleep during an operation.

cardiologist

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A cardiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the study, diagnosis, and treatment of heart conditions. They help patients manage heart diseases and issues related to blood vessels.

pediatrician

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A pediatrician is a special doctor who looks after the health of babies, children, and teenagers. They help young people stay healthy and treat them when they are sick or injured.

radiologist

A1

A radiologist is a doctor who looks at special pictures like X-rays or MRI scans. They help other doctors understand what is happening inside a patient's body.

gynecologist

A1

A gynecologist is a special doctor who looks after women's health. They specifically help with the female reproductive system and pregnancy.

ophthalmologist

A1

A special doctor who takes care of eyes. They can check your vision, give you medicine for eye problems, and do surgery if needed.

intensive care unit

A1

A special department in a hospital that provides constant medical treatment for people who are very seriously ill or injured. It contains advanced medical equipment and a high ratio of doctors and nurses to patients.

operating room

A1

An operating room is a special room in a hospital where doctors perform medical operations or surgeries. It is a very clean and sterile place filled with lights, monitors, and tools used to help patients.

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