CT Scan

A CT scan is an x-ray machine that has a circular opening. Patients lie on a sliding table that moves them into position within the machine. The CT scan provides radiologists with multiple cross-sectional views of specific parts of your body. Some tests require contrast media for best results.

Your CT scan may be done with contrast media, which highlights a particular part of your body so that it may be viewed more clearly. Contrast media is a substance taken by mouth or injected into your arm. Oral contrast media can take up to an hour or more to travel to the body part being scanned. Please be aware of this when scheduling your procedure. You may be asked to sign a consent form prior to its use. If contrast media is used, you are encouraged to drink plenty of water before and after your test.

If you are a diabetic patient you may need to discontinue your medications for 48 hours if you received injected contrast media.

Most CT scans do not require any preparation prior to your appointment. However, if contrast media will be used, your doctor will give you special instructions which may include no food for several hours prior to your test.

Notify the technologist:

• If you have ever had a reaction to any contrast media, or if you are allergic to iodine
• If you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant

Our technologists are here to make you comfortable and keep you informed. Don’t hesitate to ask any questions that you may have.

You may receive a CT scan on an outpatient basis or as part of your hospital stay. Generally, a CT scan follows this process:

1. You may be given a gown and asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that may interfere with the test.
2. If your test requires contrast media, you’ll be asked to drink an oral solution, or it will be injected into your arm using a small needle. Contrast media can make you feel flushed or can cause a salty or metallic taste in your mouth. You may also experience a brief headache or nausea. These effects usually last for just a few moments.
3. You will lie on a scan table that slides into a large, circular opening of the machine.
4. The technologist will be in another room where the scanner controls are located. However, the technologist will be able to see and communicate with you throughout your procedure through a window and voice activated microphone and speakers inside the scanner.
5. The scanner will begin to rotate around you as your images are taken. The machine makes a spinning sound, which is normal.
6. You will need to remain very still during the test, and you may be asked to hold your breath at various times.
7. Notify the technologist if you feel any difficulty breathing or other unusual symptoms such as sweating, numbness, or heart palpitations.

Some people may experience a mild reaction to contrast media. If you received your contrast media by injection, you may be monitored for a period of time after your test. Typical reactions could include itching, swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site when you return home, notify your doctor.