CT Scan
WHAT IS CT SCAN COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
A computed tomography CT scan is a radiological imaging study. CT scans are essentially X-ray studies in which a series of rays are rotated around a specific body part, and computer-generated cross-sectional images are created. The advantage of tomographic images over conventional X-rays is that they contain detailed information about a cross-section area, eliminating images’ superimposition. CT scans provide an excellent correlation between clinicopathology and a suspected illness. Bones and soft tissue can be seen with a CT scan. Various medical conditions, including cancer, bone fractures, and blood clots, can be diagnosed using these images. If you are pregnant, please speak to us before a CT scan.
How you prepare for a CT scan
CT scans take about 15 minutes. Oral contrast CT scans can take up to an hour and fifteen minutes to complete. Remove metal objects before a CT scan. If you are receiving IV contrast for a CT scan, do not eat or drink for four hours prior to your exam. Drinking water is completely up to you; if you prefer, you can continue to do so. Take all your prescribed medications. Children under 12 are not allowed at your appointment.
Your check-in time
Before undergoing an abdominal or pelvic CT scan, you may be required to consume an oral contrast solution or water. To ensure that you arrive on time, you will receive a pre-appointment phone call before your CT scan appointment.
During the CT scan
During a CT scan, you will lay on a table for the whole time. The table will move through the ring-shaped CT scanner. During a CT scan, many patients are given a contrast agent intravenously (IV). If your doctor or the radiologist thinks this will improve your CT scan results, the technologist will put an IV in your arm or hand when you get to the CT scan room. You can expect your whole CT scan appointment to take about 15 minutes. An hour and fifteen minutes are possible for a CT scan with oral contrast.
After the CT scan
Minor complications to IV contrast used for CT scans may include nausea, vomiting, headache, or dizziness, which are normally short-lived and require no treatment. Upon completion of the CT scan, a radiologist will examine the images and present the findings to your doctor. At your next appointment, your findings will be discussed by your doctor. Please note that you won’t get results at the time of the CT scan.
Patient Safety
Let us know if you have allergies, major health concerns, or recent surgeries.
Please declare if you carry metal implants, medical/electronic gadgets, or are pregnant.