Computed Tomography

Computed Tomography (CT , CAT scan)- When it is time for your scheduled examination one of our technologists will come to the waiting room to greet you and take you back for your exam. He or she will ask you several standard questions including a brief history. This aids the Doctors in tailoring your examination in order to obtain the best possible exam. You will lie on a table which slides into a donut shaped structure. A CT scanner uses a focused conventional x-ray beam to obtain it's images. The data or images are then transferred to a computer where technologists and doctors use the computer to create the best images possible. There are two types of contrast which are sometimes used in order to improve the quality and diagnostic accuracy of the exam. One contrast is given by mouth with 20-25 ounces given 2 hours prior to the study and an additional 10-15 ounces given immediately before the exam is started. A second type of contrast is given by vein and therefore requires an IV be started at the time of the exam. Some patients experience a warm or cool sensation and others get a strange taste in their mouths with the injection of this contrast so don't let this surprise or frighten you. Some patient's are allergic to this contrast just like being allergic to a bee sting or other medication so the technologist will ask you about any allergies prior to giving the contrast to you. The scan itself takes less than one minute to perform. After the scan is over the technologist will remove the IV if one was started and then escort you back to the waiting room or give you directions to your next appointment in the hospital. The overall time you will be in the radiology department for the CT scan is approximately 30 minutes. If you have any questions please feel free to call: 876-2300 (or 876-2323)

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