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About CT Scans

A CT scan is a type of x-ray that uses a computer to show images of your body. This study is very good for showing body structures and organs. The pictures are taken in “slices”. Each slice shows only a few layers of body tissue at one time. This study is fast, simple, and patient-friendly. A radiologist (a doctor who is an expert in reading x-rays) will interpret the pictures.

A note to inpatients: If you are having this procedure done on an inpatient basis, your nurse will guide you through all preparations, and will arrange for your transportation to and from the CT Department.

Preparation

Please look here for the type of scan you will be having. Follow the preparation steps noted.

CT of the brain, orbits, pituitary, neck, chest:

• Take all scheduled doses of medication.

CT of the abdomen:

• Take all scheduled doses of medication.

CT of the pelvis or abdomen and pelvis:

• Take all scheduled doses of medication.

CT Urography:

• Take all scheduled doses of medication.

CT of the sinuses, spine, bone structures, abdomen or pelvis for kidney stones:

• There is no preparation at all;
• Take all scheduled doses of medication.

* A note to inpatients: Your nurse will tell you the exact food and drink restrictions that
you should follow.

Procedures

Upon your arrival in the CT Department, you will be escorted to a dressing room and asked to change into the exam gown provided. You will also be asked to remove any metal you are wearing in the area to be scanned.

When you are ready, our technologist will escort you to the CT Scan Room. The technologist will explain the procedure and answer your questions. You will be assisted onto the scan table and positioned for your study. Once the procedure begins, you will be asked to lie perfectly still. During the scan, a series of pictures are taken as the table moves slowly. A clicking or whirring noise will be heard. During the study, you will be alone in the scan room. A technologist will be able to hear you and speak to you. Most studies will take between 10 and 20 minutes.

Contrast (X-ray Dye)

Contrast, or x-ray dye, is a substance we introduce into your body to highlight internal organs, tissues, and blood vessels so that they are easier to observe in CT images.

Usually, contrast is not necessary for CT scans of the spine, sinuses, and bone structures, or for dentascans.

Other scans require contrast that may be given intravenously (by a tube put into your vein) or orally (by mouth). This intravenous contrast material is an iodine-based substance. The oral contrast can be barium or iondioned-based.

Before any intravenous contrast is given, our technologist will review your medical history. Please let us know if you have diabetes, kidney disease, taking metformin containing drugs, are in active sickle cell crisis, claustrophobia (fear of enclosed or small spaces), or a previous allergic reaction to iodine contrast. Also, if you are pregnant or think you might be, please tell the technologist.

The intravenous contrast will be injected into a vein in your arm or hand before the scanning begins. During the injection, you may feel warm and flushed, and may have a metallic taste in your mouth. This is a normal reaction to contrast. These symptoms usually pass within 10 minutes. Later, the contrast will be eliminated naturally through your urine.

Note to diabetic patients: If you receive an intravenous injection of contrast and you take Metformin (Glucophage® or Glucovance®) therapy:

• You may be asked to stop taking the Metformin (Glucophage® or Glucovance®) for 48 hours after the CT scan.
• Talk with your primary care physician before you begin taking it again.

Follow-Up

Your CT scan will be interpreted by a Radiologist, who will then report the results to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results with you at your next appointment.