A CT scan (or CAT scan) is a series of pictures of the body made with X-rays and a computer. The images are created in crosswise stacks and are often likened to the slices of a loaf of bread. CT scans are one of the most powerful tools that Synergy Radiology Associates’ board-certified radiologists use to examine many parts of the body. The most common CT scans are of the head, chest, abdomen and pelvis, but almost any part of the body can be examined by CT scan if necessary. CT scans are made from X-rays and therefore use ionizing radiation. They are only ordered when the referring physician feels that the information from the study is more important than the very small risk of radiation injury.
How do I prepare for my CT scan?
If you have any allergy to iodine contrast or problems with your kidneys, BE SURE to tell the ordering physician or our CT technologist before your exam begins. If you take any oral medicines for diabetes, be sure and mention that also. Most CT scans require little if any preparation. When you schedule your exam with one of our 20+ partnering hospitals and imaging centers, you will receive any special instructions which may be important for your personal exam. If your exam includes the injection of contrast in a vein, then it is a good idea to stay well hydrated by drinking a reasonable amount of water (a few extra glasses) in the days or hours before your study. This will help your kidneys clear the contrast agent from your blood after the exam is completed.
What can I expect on the day of my exam?
Usually, you will be taken to a changing room where any necessary changes of clothing can take place. You may be asked to wear an examination gown. All metallic clothing or objects in the region to be examined which can be removed should be removed. If your exam requires any kind of contrast agent then you will be given the contrast. The preparation for the exam may take anywhere from 5 min to 30 min or more, depending on the contrast requirements. Once you are on the CT examining table, the table will slowly move you through the center of a large “doughnut” shaped device for the scan. You may go back and forth within the device a few times during the exam. The technologist may ask you to “hold your breath” during the individual scans which last several seconds at a time. The entire CT exam usually takes from 5 to 20 minutes, again depending on the particular exam ordered. Exams of the abdomen and pelvis or those done “with and without” contrast usually take longer. If there are any other special instructions, you will receive them after the exam.
