Computed Tomography (CT) scanning is a rapid, 
painless diagnostic examination that combines X-rays and computers. A CT scan allows the radiologist to see the location, nature, and extent of many different diseases or abnormalities inside your body. Our computerized CT scanner is capable of rapid scanning and imaging. The high-resolution images this system produces reveal excellent detailed anatomic images which, allow our board-certified radiologists to manipulate and reconstruct images in multiple planes. This enables physicians to visualize vessels and organs similar to “virtual reality.”
What To Expect
The CT study is a very simple examination. You will be brought into the examination room and made comfortable on the CT table by the technologist. You will need to lie still for about 5 to 30 minutes to complete the test. Some patients will require a contrast medium in order to make test results more diagnostic, in which case please read the preparation instructions below. After the exam, you may return to work or home and resume normal activities. The radiologists will promptly review and interpret your images and deliver a report to your physician.
Preparations and Precautions
For your own comfort, wear loose clothing to your examination. In addition, let your technologist know if you have any allergies, particularly to iodine.
If you are scheduled for a CT exam of the abdomen/pelvis than the meal prior to your CT examination should consist of CLEAR liquids ONLY. (You may have coffee/tea WITHOUT milk; jello; broth; soda; and grape, cranberry or apple juice.) You will be asked to come to the office and pick up a barium drink, which will highlight your intestines and colon for the procedure. DO NOT REFRIGERATE the barium drink. TWO (2) HOURS BEFORE YOUR SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT – Remove cap and drink the liquid within 30 minutes to the first designated line of the container. ONE (1) HOUR BEFORE YOUR SCHEDULED APPOINTMENT – Drink the liquid within 30 minutes to the 2 designated line on the container. REMAINDER OF THE LIQUID – Bring the remainder of the liquid with you to the office. – Arrive at our office 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. These 15 minutes will allow time for you to complete a medical history form. You will finish drinking the liquid when the study begins. – Prescription medications may be taken as usual. – EXCEPTION: Do not take Glucophage.
For more information on this topic, please visit www.radiologyinfo.org
