Final answer:
Computed Tomography (CT), also known as Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) scan, is a medical imaging technique that uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed two-dimensional or three-dimensional images of the body. This technology offers an enhanced view compared to traditional X-rays and can provide vital information for medical diagnosis and treatment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The medical imaging technique you are referring to is known as Computed Tomography (CT), sometimes called a Computed Axial Tomography (CAT) scan. CT scans utilize a series of X-rays taken from various angles around the body. These cross-sectional images, often referred to as "slices," are processed and integrated by a powerful computer system. This analysis facilitates the creation of a detailed two-dimensional or a composite three-dimensional image of the patient's internal structures. With the help of these detailed images, medical professionals can examine bones, organs, and other tissues with remarkable clarity.
CT technology has revolutionized the field of medical imaging. It was pioneered in the 1970s by scientists like G. Hounsfield from the UK and A. Cormack from the US, who notably received the Nobel Prize in Medicine for their groundbreaking work in developing CT. Unlike a standard X-ray that provides a two-dimensional view, CT scans offer comprehensive imaging that is critical for diagnosis and treatment, especially for conditions where soft tissue visualization is essential.