CT Scans
What is a CT Scan?
A Computerized Tomography (CT) scan is used to study structures inside the body. The CT machine rotates around the patient’s body, compiling multiple images. This makes the scan much more detailed and effective than a conventional X-ray.
Your CT Scan Exam
When you make your appointment, you will receive a set of instructions to follow carefully.
Please arrive 30 minutes before your appointment. If you are having blood work or require a contrast fluid, you will need to arrive at least one hour before hand. This time also allows you to ask any additional questions.
Contrast Agents
Many scans require the patient to take a contrast agent. This contrast fluid contains iodine, so please tell your technologist if you are allergic to it. Contrast agents are usually injected through the hand or arm. Scans of the digestive system may require the patient to drink a flavored contrast fluid. Examinations of the lower intestine may require a small contrast enema.
The Scanner
In the examining room, you will be asked to lie on a table, usually on your back with your arms at your sides or over your head but some may require you to lie on your stomach. Your technologist will observe you from a window, and you will be able to communicate through an intercom. Depending on the type of examination, your scan will last between five and 30 minutes.
CT Examinations
Head
The CT scan is capable of producing highly detailed images of the brain. For this scan, your head rests in a holder or cradle. Examinations of the pituitary glands, sinuses, or inner ear require you to lie in your stomach.
Chest
Chest scans are often performed using a contrast agent, usually injected through the hand. This scan requires you lie on your back with your arms stretched above your head. Chest examinations only take 10 to 15 minutes to perform.
Abdomen and pelvis
CT scans provide excellent maps of the liver, pancreas, kidneys, stomach, intestines, blood vessels, and bones. To highlight your intestines on the images, you may be asked to drink a flavored contrast fluid. If you’re having a lower intestine scan, you may be given a contrast enema. For abdominal scans, you may receive a contrast injection in the head or arm. During this scan, you will lie on your back with your arms above your head. These scans normally take 10 to 15 minutes.
Spine
The CT scan can create images of the spinal bones, discs, nerves, and muscles. No specific preparation is necessary for this scan. During the scan, you will lie on your back. This test will take 10 to 15 minutes to complete.
Other scans
If the scan you are scheduled for does not appear on this page, please feel free to call our office. A technologist or radiologist will explain your exam and answer any questions.
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