Services | Radiology | CT Scan

Computerized Tomography (CT Scan)


1. Exam Description


CT is a type of imaging that uses x-rays and a computer to construct pictures (images) of the tissues in your body. Images of your body tissues are taken in very small slices or spirals of information over a short period of time. The CT scan itself is painless. The Radiologic Technologist will have you change into a gown if necessary, and then assist you onto the examination table. You will lie on a firm table that moves inside the donut-shaped CT scanner. The table will move into the open center of the donut as the x-rays are being taken. In order to obtain the best images possible you will be asked to lie very still during the scanning and you may have to hold your breath for brief periods.

2. Expect


You should have no discomfort or pain from this exam and may return to your normal daily activities unless otherwise instructed. Most CTs take about 10 minutes for each body part imaged.

3. Preparations


Special instructions will be given depending upon the type of contrast to be administered. Generally, the following guidelines apply: For exams that require intravenous contrast (i.e., CT Brain, Chest, etc.) you should have nothing by mouth for 4 hours prior to the exam. For CT scans of the Abdomen and Pelvis that require oral and possibly intravenous contrast you should have nothing by mouth for 4 hours prior to the exam and we request the you drink 16 ounces of water 1 hr prior to appointment. You may empty your bladder as needed. You may also be asked to drink oral contrast.

4. Patient Suggestions


Follow all exam preparation instructions prior to the examination, which are specific to the body part being scanned.

5. Exam Results


A Radiologist, a physician who specializes in the study of various imaging tests, will study the images and send a typed report to the designated health care provider.

6. Please Note:


A word about Contrast: Additional information may be gathered with the use of contrast media during CT scanning. Contrast media is a solution that “highlights” certain tissues on the x-ray images, which may help give additional information to the Radiologist when analyzing tissues, organs, and blood vessels. Contrast media can be given in several ways: Oral Contrast: Some patients having abdominal or pelvic CT scans will be asked to drink contrast media prior to scanning. This will “coat” the stomach and intestines to highlight them during scanning. Most patients have few if any side effects from drinking the oral contrast. If the contrast media is white you may note white flecks in your stool for a day or two after the scan. Intravenous (IV) Contrast: Depending on your symptoms and the area of the body being scanned, the blood vessels may need to be more clearly identified. If so, a small needle will be inserted into your arm and contrast media injected – an experience similar to having your blood drawn. The images will be taken during or after the injection of contrast media. The intravenous contrast causes a small percentage of patients to become nauseous. Therefore, it is usually recommended to avoid eating for a few hours prior to receiving IV contrast. Please refer to the exam prep instructions. The contrast is removed from the body though the kidneys. You should drink plenty of fluids.