Radiology / Diagnostics
Patient Guide to State-of-the-Art CT
Computerized Tomography (CT) has revolutionized diagnostic medicine. This advanced X-ray technique allows your doctor and radiologist to view bones, organs, blood vessels and even your heart in extraordinarily fine detail. This information helps doctors diagnose a wide variety of conditions earlier and faster than ever.
What is CT?
CT, which stands for Computerized Tomography (sometimes referred to as a CAT scan), is a fast, painless diagnostic tool doctors use to see inside the body. Physicians use the information they get from a CT scan to rule out or confirm the presence of certain abnormalities or diseases. If doctors do see something on your scan, that information can be extremely vital in determining the proper treatment options.
A CT scanner combines X-rays with advanced computer processing technology to create accurate, detailed images of your internal structures and organs.
CT exams are quick and comfortable. You will be asked to lie still on a table as it gently moves you through the scanner. In most cases, you will be asked several questions before your CT scan. Be sure to inform your physician or the technologist if you have any allergies or believe you are pregnant.
Why is CT important?
CT scans allow doctors to see images of your internal organs and structures in great detail from a variety of angles. This gives your physicians critical information more quickly and, in many cases, more economically than they could achieve with other tests or invasive techniques. In those cases where surgery is recommended, the information from the CT scan helps the surgical team in their planning process.
Is CT like an X-ray?
Yes. CT uses X-rays in conjunction with advanced computer technology to generate very accurate and detailed images of your internal organs and structures. Your technologist will step into a control room to conduct the actual exam. You may notice a mechanical noise coming from the scanner. That is just the X-ray tube being activated and rotating around your body.
Will the CT Scan hurt?
No. CT is a painless, non-invasive test that will not hurt at all. Your exam may require that a contrast agent be given intravenously that will make your blood vessels and tissues more visible. You will then be asked to lie perfectly still once the technologist has positioned your appropriately on the table. You may also be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds during the exam. Any movement may require the exam to be repeated.
How long will my CT exam take?
The length of your CT exam depends on which particular study, or studies, your doctor has ordered. Most exams are quick, lasting just a few minutes. You may be asked to arrive at the facility 15 or 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam time.
Do I have to do anything special to prepare for my CT scan?
How you prepare for your CT scan depends on what part of the body is being examined. You will be informed of any special instructions when your CT is scheduled. In some cases, the staff may ask you to change into a hospital gown for the exam.
What is a contrast agent?
A contrast agent is a safe liquid substance that makes certain tissues stand out more clearly against their surroundings, enabling the finest details to show up on the X ray, improving diagnostic accuracy. You may be given the contrast agent intravenously or orally. In all cases, the contrast agent will leave your body naturally within a few hours. If your exam does require a contrast agent, be sure to tell the technologist if you have any allergies to food, medications, iodine or prior experience with the contrast discussed above.
Will I be alone during the CT exam?
During your CT exam you will be in contact with a technologist. Even when he or she is not in the CT room, you will be able to communicate via intercom. The technologist will inform you when an exam is about to start and when it is finished. Family members and/or friends are not permitted to stay with you in the CT room.
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