CT scans in hospitals are important tools for diagnosing various diseases, suitable for all age groups, but they may have certain effects on the body, especially on infants and young children whose immune systems are more fragile, potentially leading to adverse reactions after the CT scan. The extent of these effects is closely related to the frequency of CT scans, the parts being examined, and the type of equipment used.
The advancement of modern CT technology has significantly reduced radiation doses. For example, newer 320-slice CT scanners can reduce radiation exposure to a quarter of what it used to be with traditional 64-slice CT scanners. When performing CT scans on children, doctors pay special attention to protecting important areas such as the eyes, thyroid, and reproductive glands to further mitigate potential risks.
The X-rays used in CT scans are the source of their side effects, as they can penetrate the human body and potentially damage cells and metabolic functions, posing a threat to the immature immune system and hematopoietic function of infants. However, the radiation dosage for infant CT scans is strictly controlled, following national safety standards, and in reputable medical institutions, the duration of CT scans for infants is usually limited to under 10 seconds, ensuring operational safety. Doctors only recommend CT scans for infants when absolutely necessary, ensuring that the benefits outweigh the potential risks. An occasional CT scan with limited radiation exposure is generally considered not to cause long-term harm.
Nevertheless, parents should still be vigilant. If an infant shows abnormal mental status after a CT scan, they should promptly communicate with a doctor, and if necessary, use medication as advised by a physician to prevent complications from self-medication.
