Posts Tagged ‘Medical’

I Should Have Been on Star Trek

July 31, 2008

Yesterday I had a CT scan.  I’ve been bothered by a health problem and my doctor ordered a CT scan to help determine the next course of action.

Fortunately I haven’t had a lot of experience with medical technology.  Since I at one time taught computer science I knew a little of the theory behind CT (Computed Tomography) or CAT (Computed Axial Tomography), but I had never seen a real CT scan device.  I had heard horror stories from individuals who suffered claustrophobia in the “tunnel” when having a scan, but I didn’t pay that much attention.

I’ll have to admit that the experience was interesting and not unpleasant.  I didn’t have to wait too long in the waiting room to be called for my scan and the two technicians were friendly and efficient.

The device itself looked like a donut with a bed attached, very similar to the picture above.  The whole thing only took about five minutes.  The device had several lights (I don’t know the purpose) and a computerized voice telling me when to hold by breath and when to breathe normally.  It looked very scientific and modern.

All in all I felt that I should have been on an episode of Star Trek!