CT Scans

Computed Tomography (CT or CAT) scans offer two major benefits to patients: their ability to picture a combination of bone, soft tissue and internal organs, and their ability to do so in a relatively short period of time.

CT is often used to follow-up cancer treatment to determine if a tumor is responding to therapy. Because of its short scan times, CT exams are also good for imaging areas that are prone to movement, such as the chest and liver.

The CT scanner is a rotating device with a hole in the middle, like a giant donut. It captures numerous images every time it makes a 360-degree circle around the patient. Working with very narrow x-ray beams that pass through the body at different levels, CT images are created digitally by a computer. One rotation allow approximately 1,000 images to be taken. 

Getting Ready For Your CT Scan:
You will need to remove all jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures and any other items that could degrade the CT image. Zippers or snaps on clothing also present a problem and you may be asked to wear a gown.

Sometimes CT exams require the administration of a contrast agent, given through injection, to enhance the images. Other examinations, such as those looking at the pelvic region or abdomen, may require that you drink barium liquid prior to the scan.

The Test:
The technologist will ask you to lie on the table with the area of interest placed inside the scanner's opening (the donut hole). The table will move during the procedure and you may hear a whirring sound. While your body is moved through the scanner, it is very important that you remain as still as possible to prevent a blurred image. The total procedure lasts between 5 to 20 minutes.

CT scans do involve radiation, but because of the rapid scanning time and low dose, the exposure is generally minimal.

If your scan requires a contrast agent, it is important to inform your technologist if you have or have ever had asthma, diabetes, renal failure, severe cardiac disease or a prior allergic reaction of a contrasting agent. Women who are breast feeding may be instructed to wait 24 hours before breast  feeding again.

If you are pregnant, you should generally avoid a CT exam or any kind of exam involving x-rays. Your health care provider is the best person to advise you.

After the Test:
You should be able to resume your normal activities immediately after your CT scan unless otherwise instructed by your physician.