Computed tomography, also call a CT scan, is an imaging process used to obtain detailed images of the inside of the body. CT uses x-rays and computer technology to make cross-sectional images of the body. A series of x-ray pictures, each a thin slice, are put together in a computer for form a three-dimensional view of the inside of the body. If an x-ray is like looking at a photo of a heart, a CT scan is like looking at a model that you can pick up and examine from any angle. CT scans are used to help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. Medical imaging exams have been directly linked to greater life expectancy, declines in cancer mortality rates, and are generally less expensive than the invasive procedures that they replace.
Our facility has three CT scanners allowing us to provide quick scheduling for your test. Our CT is equipped with large bore technology, which ensures you will be comfortable during your exam.
On the day of your exam, please wear two-piece comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid clothing with zippers and snaps as metal objects can affect the image. You may also be asked to remove hair pins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids or dentures depending on the part of the body to be scanned as well as asked not to eat or drink anything for one or more hours before the exam.
Women should inform their doctor or the CT technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
CT exams With Contrast injections and all CTA’s
Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam except water.
CT Abdomen or Pelvis
Please arrive one hour prior to appointment to drink oral contrast.
If your doctor has provided contrast, drink one hour before appointment and arrive 15 minutes prior to scheduled time.
CT Enterography
Please arrive one hour prior to appointment to drink oral contrast ONLY provided by our office.
CTA Coronary with Calcium Scoring
Please arrive one hour prior to appointment to take Beta Blocker given by our Radiologist.
Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam.
Virtual Colonoscopy
Prep kit and instructions will be mailed to patient.
A CT scan may take anywhere from 5 minutes to a half hour. Our Technologist will position you on our cushioned CT table and pillows may be used to help keep you still and in the proper position during the scan. Our goal is to make you as comfortable as possible. The table will move slowly into the CT scanner opening. Depending on the area of the body being examined, the increments of movement may be very small and almost undetectable or large enough to feel the motion.
To enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels, use of different contrast materials (x-ray dye) may be required. Depending on the type of examination, contrast material may be injected through an IV, swallowed or administered by enema.
Before administering the contrast material, you should inform the radiologist or technologist of the following:
- Any allergies, especially prior allergic reactions to radiologic contrast agents
- If you have a history of diabetes, asthma, kidney problems, heart or thyroid conditions. These conditions may indicate a higher risk of reaction to the contrast material or potential problems eliminating the material from the patient’s system after the exam.
The CT technologist will step out of the CT exam room into an adjacent control room, but will be in constant visual and verbal contact with you during the brief time that the scan is actually being performed. You may be asked to wait until the images are reviewed, to determine if more images are needed.