A CT scan stands for computerized tomography scan and is a composite of numerous x rays taken from many different angles. It is extremely effective in allowing doctors to diagnose conditions, but it is usually not ordered unless it is absolutely necessary. This is solely because it is such an exhaustive and expensive test and cheaper and simpler options are available. However, there are cases where having a CT scan taken is instrumental in getting a correct diagnosis.
Our Chicago injury attorneys at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers can help you determine whether you should push for a CT scan and find qualified medical professionals who can help provide you with both an accurate diagnosis and the evidence you will need to help your injury case.
What is a CT Scan?
In short, a CT scan is the combination of numerous images that provide a glimpse inside of the body. The scan works by taking many x rays from varied angles and then creating cross sections of the areas of the body the physician needs to see in order to diagnose an injury or medical condition.
Primary Difference between an MRI and CT Scan
Magnetic resonance imaging is another form of diagnostic testing that tests the same parts of the body a CT scan would. The main difference is in the level of detail provided. Where a MRI may be able to diagnose injuries to bone and cartilage, a CT scan provides close imagery of soft tissue. This can help when it comes to diagnosing injuries to ligaments and tendons which may require surgical repair.
CT scans are also effective for detecting internal bleeding or hemorrhaging. They may also be used to determine whether a patient has suffered damage to his or her internal organs.
How a CT Scan Will Benefit a Personal Injury Case
When determining the cause and severity of an injury, it is important to obtain as much information as possible. CT scans provide the extreme detail that medical experts may need to determine how the person was injured, to form a treatment plan and to assess the likely cost of treatment over time.
There are some instances where an x ray or MRI will not be enough to show the full extent of an injury. This is where a CT scan become instrumental in both the medical diagnosis and helping to build a case.
In addition to providing pertinent information to physicians, the CT scan provides images that can be used in court to show a jury where the client was injured and to show just how severe the injury was. Such visual displays can corroborate the claims made by the plaintiff in an injury case and help justify the amount of compensation his or her attorney is seeking from the defendant.
How to Know if You Need a CT Scan
Due to the exhaustive nature of a CT scan and how detailed the results are, doctors will usually order an x ray, ultrasound or MRI before deciding to order a CT scan. Cost is one of the greatest factors, as doctors forgo CT scans in favor of other options to keep costs down. If you suspect that you may need an advanced diagnostic scan of this nature, it is best to speak with a qualified personal injury lawyer first to determine if the existing diagnostic information your physician has collected is enough to diagnose your condition and to act as evidence of your claims.
Our attorneys work closely with experienced medical specialists who can determine which diagnostic tests are most appropriate for your wellbeing as well as for your case.
If you have been injured in an accident, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers would like to invite you to learn more about how to protect your rights and interests. We can help you determine the best course of action from a legal and medical standpoint so that you are able to move forward with your life as quickly as possible.
Contact us today to speak with an award winning Chicago injury attorney today so that we can make sure that you are receiving the care you need and deserve. We have helped thousands of clients recover the compensation they deserve and are confident we can help you too. If we are unable to do so, our services will be free of charge.
