PEDIATRICS Vol. 59 No. 2 February 1977, pp. 147-149
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Computerized tomography: Dilemma of health care technology

H. V. Fineberg M.D.1

1 Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts

Computerized tomography (CT) is a remarkable technological triumph whose significance has been likened to the development of the X-ray itself. The CT scanner projects a narrow beam of X-rays across the head or body and uses a computer to convert sequential readings of tissue X-ray absorption into a cross-sectional view of the anatomical part examined. A CT scan entails radiation doses which are comparable to those from conventional X-ray studies, but is capable of distinguishing smaller differences in tissue radio-density. The only significant operational disadvantage to CT is the need for the subject to remain motionless during the time required for the scan, which often necessitates sedation or general anesthesia in restless children and infants.