Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging

What is a CT scan?

CT scans take between 15 and 60 minutes. A CT technologist, who is specially trained in the use and operation of CT scanners, will perform the CT scan. After you enter the room, the technologist will explain the test to you and answer any questions you may have. You may be asked to drink an oral contrast material for the test, depending on the type of test that is ordered. You may also receive an injection of an intravenous contrast material (an injection of "dye" in a vein in your arm). You will have a temporary IV started in your arm for this test.

Please tell the CT technologist if you have any allergies, diabetes, renal (kidney) problems, are now or have recently been on interleukin therapy, or have a history of prior problems with contrast material prior to this injection.

During the scan you will feel the table moving and will be asked to hold your breath for short periods of time. It is very important that you lie perfectly still during the scan.

How does a CT scan work?

During the scan a very thin beam of X-ray is focused on a specific part of your body. The X-ray tube moves very rapidly around this area, enabling multiple images to be made from different angles to create a cross-sectional picture. These images are then sent to a computer, which analyzes the information and constructs an image for the radiologist to interpret. Other, more detailed images may be performed from these images after you have left the department.

How do I prepare for a CT scan?

• The day of your scan, please bring your health insurance cards with you.
• Please remember to bring your doctor's written prescription for the test with you.
• Please wear comfortable clothing. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown, but this is not always necessary.
• Normally, you will be asked not to eat anything solid three hours prior to the test.
• Depending on the type of test you are having, you may be asked to drink an oral contrast material (barium sulfate, or an iodinated solution in Crystal Light).
• We may require you to have two lab tests done to determine your BUN and creatinine: this will tell us what your renal (kidney) function is, and is necessary for patients who are over the age of 50, diabetic, have renal problems, congestive heart failure or are hypertensive. We need to know this information prior to giving IV contrast material.
• If you are diabetic and are taking Glucophage or Glucovance, you will be asked to stop taking this medication for 48 hours after the injection of IV contrast material for the CT scan.
• If you are pregnant, or think there might be a possibility that you are pregnant, please tell the CT technologist prior to starting the scan.

How and when will I find out the results?

Once you have completed your study, the CT technologist will complete any special requests that may need to be performed with the study. If we have any studies you have had done previously available to us at the time of completion of your test, we will give these studies to the radiologist.