What is a CT?
Computerized Tomography or CT is a specialized form of X-Ray. Rather than sending out a single X-Ray beam capturing general images of an affected area of your body, the CT scanner has a rotating X-Ray which emits several beams simultaneously from different angles producing "slices." These slices, which look like a slice of bread, are then reconstructed to create 2 and 3 dimensional images of vital organs, soft tissue structures, bones, and blood vessels. CT scans can also determine if a growth is solid or fluid-filled and if an organ's size and shape are normal. This virtual reconstruction allows our radiologists and your physician to actually see what is inside your body.
Why a CT?
A CT is the best way to non-invasively see inside your body and is ideal for:
I am claustrophobic, will I be comfortable?
Yes. A CT scanner is virtually completely open. The scanner itself looks like a large donut, called a gantry. The opening measures as the largest in the industry.
Can anyone have a CT?
No. Providing information about your medical condition and history is crucial. CTs, like other X-Rays, emit a level of radiation into the body in order to obtain the images. They are monitored and regulated to provide the minimum amount of radiation exposure. Women who are or may be pregnant should not undergo any type of X-Ray, including a CT scan. If you are currently nursing and receive contrast, you should wait 24 hours before resuming breast feeding. If you are diabetic and take Glucophage you will need special instructions.
My Doctor ordered "Contrast", what is it?
In some circumstances your doctor may require that you either swallow oral barium or have an injection of IV contrast to enhance the tissue. Rest assured it is quickly filtered through your urinary system within 24 to 48 hours. If you are 60 years of age or older or diabetic, you will be required to have blood work done, if you have not already done so within the past 6 weeks, to show your BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and Creatinine levels are within normal range.
What do I expect during a CT?
If your doctor has ordered any type of contrast for your CT scan we ask that you have nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to your exam. However, you may take normal required medications. When you schedule your exam at our clinic, our staff will inform you of any special preparations required.
You may be asked to remove clothing and change into a patient gown or wear loose, comfortable clothing, as some articles of clothing interfere with the CT scan. You also may be asked to remove certain pieces of jewelry.
You will then lie on the scanning table, usually on your back, and are asked stay as still as possible. During your CT scan, the table will move in and out of the CT scanner. Additionally, the gantry itself will tilt back and forth; however, no part of the CT scanner will touch you.
During the exam you will hear a humming sound from inside the CT scanner. This humming is completely normal and means that the scanner in acquiring your image. Holding still during the scan is very important to acquire an accurate image! You may be given breathing instructions during the exam. Most CT scans take approximately 15 minutes to complete. Your appointment time may vary depending upon the prep required for your test.
When will I get the results of my CT?
A Board Certified Radiologist will review and evaluate your CT images within 24 hours following your scan. The radiologist will provide your referring physician with an interpretation of the results of the CT scan. Your health-care provider can then make a diagnosis and explain what the findings mean with you.