CT

CT scans use X-rays taken from multiple angles as a patient moves through the opening of the machine. An X-ray tube and a high-resolution digital detector rotate rapidly inside the scanner, capturing images from various angles to create detailed views of bones, soft tissues, organs, and blood vessels. This rotation occurs internally and cannot be detected by the patient. The images produced by a CT scan are significantly more detailed than those from a traditional X-ray, making CT scans an essential tool for diagnosing conditions such as acute brain trauma, kidney stones, and other medical issues.

The CT scanner captures many thin, two-dimensional images that a computer assembles into detailed three-dimensional views. This allows the physician to examine the scanned area layer by layer, providing greater detail to support an accurate diagnosis.

TMany CT scans require the use of a contrast dye. The contrast may be taken orally as a drink before the scan or administered through an IV during the exam. This contrast material highlights specific areas of the body, helping to produce the clearest and most detailed images possible.

You must remove all jewelry and any other metallic objects such as hearing aids, jeans with metal zippers, body piercings, and removable dental work. Wearing a sweatsuit with no metal may prevent you from having to change into a gown.

Additional prep CT with I.V. contrast

Do not eat anything one hour prior to your exam time. You may drink clear liquids (example: water, ginger ale, apple juice). Keep hydrated before and after your exam.

If you have impaired kidney function, are diabetic, or are 60 years of age or older, we will perform an i-STAT creatinine level at the time of your exam to assess your kidney function. It is important to inform us if you are taking the medication hydroxyurea when making your appointment.

Additional prep CT with oral contrast

If you are receiving oral contrast, please pick up the contrast kit the day before your exam. If you are receiving Omnipaque oral contrast, refer to the Omnipaque oral contrast section below. If you are receiving Redi-CAT oral contrast, please ask your Zwanger-Pesiri representative for those specific instructions.

Omnipaque oral contrast prep for CT scan

Do not take if you have an iodine allergy.

Begin drinking the Omnipaque oral prep one hour and 40 minutes before your exam, preferably finishing 20 to 30 minutes before the exam time

To prepare the contrast drink:

• Pour HALF the contents of the Ominpaque bottle into the 32 oz. cup that was given to you.
• Fill the cup with water up to approximately 1/2 inch from the top of the cup (approximately 30 oz).
• Stir well and drink.
• Discard the cup, contrast bottle and straw after use.

First, the technologist ensures that you have no metal on your body, and reviews your medical history with you. You are then asked to lie on the scanning table, which is moved into the center of the machine, and asked to stay as still as possible to ensure the clearest images. Most exams last only a few minutes, depending on the body part.

The exam is non-invasive and the machine never touches your body. The technologist is available via intercom should the patient have any concerns during the exam.

You can be assured that only the minimal amount of radiation is used to ensure images of diagnostic quality.