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What is a CT?
Computed tomography (CT) is a sophisticated imaging technique that can show anatomy at different levels within the body. During CT imaging, the x-ray source rotates around the patient and each rotation produces a single cross-sectional “slice”, like the slices in a loaf of bread. CT allows physicians to see a horizontal piece of the body, just as if you were taking a slice of bread out of a loaf.
Computed tomography scans, also called CT scans, are used to diagnose many conditions, such as kidney stones or bleeding. Your physician has ordered a CT to examine your abdomen and pelvis closer.
Patient Preparation:
The CT scan can take about 10-30 minutes to perform. We ask you to have nothing to eat for four hours before your appointment. However, non-caffeinated clear liquids are permitted. Please arrive 30 minutes before your appointment to fill out any necessary paperwork. We will have you fill out a medical history form before the scan. If needed, you may be asked to drink oral contrast to help aid in the visualization of your digestive system. Most patients will require an IV and injection of a contrast media to aid in the visualization of your blood vessels. Blood work may also be needed before your exam.
Blood work may be needed before your exam. Wait times can be ten minutes to an hour depending on the preparation needed for your exam.
Before your examination, a CT technologist will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have.
During the Examination:
Your examination time can range from ten to thirty minutes, depending upon the part of the body being examined and whether or not a contrast agent is used. For a body scan, you will be asked to remove any metal objects prior to the scan.
The CT tech will position you on the scanning table and secure you with a safety strap. The table will be guided into the scanning unit that is a machine with a large circular opening in the center. This is a large opening, unlike the tunnel of MRI. Therefore, patients are not as enclosed and are less likely to feel claustrophobic. Head, arms, and legs are out of the machine.
As the x-ray tube moves around you, you will be asked to hold very still. Even slight movements can blur the image. You will be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time.
When the scan is complete, you will be allowed to resume your normal diet. You will be encouraged to drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids the rest of the day if you have recieved contrast.
A radiologist will read your CT scan and the report will be sent to your doctor. You will need to follow up with your doctor for the results.
If you have any questions please call our Norwood office at 513-366-3180.
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