The initial image obtained during CT scanning is usually called a scout image, pilot or topogram. Sometimes it is also called a scanograph. The scout image is used to determine the exent of slices to be taken during axial scan. The gantry is kept in a fixed position and the table is moved as the x-ray beam is delivered to record the scout scan. The scout image is similar to radiograph in appearance. The image below shows an implanted pacemaker and the lead very well unlike in a conventional radiograph.

Scout scan of an implanted pacemaker with lead

Pacemaker is seen in the right pectoral position, a single chamber device used for ventricular pacing. The lead entering the subclavian vein and tracking down through the superior vena cava into the right atrium and across the tricuspid valve (more or less in the midline) into the right ventricle is seen well. Both the proximal ring electrode and the distal electrode of the lead are seen fairly well. A penetrated view of x ray chest PA view can also show the lead fairly well, but it will darken out the lung fields very much.