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The computerized axial tomography scan-known as a CT or CAT scan-is a simple, non-invasive procedure that enables medical professionals to quickly and safely obtain sophisticated and accurate diagnostic information on your brain, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine and extremities.
If your physician has recommended a CT scan, you can rest assured that preparation for the exam is simple and the procedure itself is painless and safe.
What You Can Expect
The first thing you will notice when you enter the CT scan examination room is the CT scan machine itself-a table surrounded by a large donut-shaped cylinder. During the exam, you simply lie still on the table as a technologist slowly advances the table into the proper position. The cylinder will rotate slowly around the table, as thin x-ray beams take cross-sectional "snapshots" of the area of your body being examined. These snapshots are then reconstructed by the system's computer to create comprehensive, three-dimensional pictures within seconds.
The cylinder may also be tilted to collect images from various angles, but this will not touch you or disrupt the table you are lying on. These angled images allow your doctor and the radiologist to see many different cross-sections of the part of your body being scanned-something not possible with traditional x-rays.
Don't be concerned if you hear clicking sounds as the cylinder rotates and the pictures are taken—that's simply the x-ray camera and the cylinder gears at work.
The entire procedure is fast, pain free, and produces important medical information.
Before the Exam
If you are having a body CT scan, you may be asked to drink only clear liquids and abstain from solid foods before the exam.
If you are or could be pregnant or if you have asthma, you should tell your physician before having any type of CT scan. You should also let your physician know if you have ever had a reaction to a contrast agent or if you have any allergies to food, especially shellfish, or medication.
At the Exam
You may be asked to remove your watch, jewelry and other metallic objects (such as hairpins or barrettes) before lying on the table. Patients having body CT scans will need to undress and wear a hospital gown. If you are having a contrast-enhanced CT scan (CECT), a contrast agent or "dye" is used to help provide clearer pictures. This dye will be injected into a vein, generally in your arm.
Certain examinations may require more or different instructions as recommended by your physician and/or radiologist. This is meant to be a general guideline only and each patient should always follow the directions of his/her personal physician or radiologist.
After the Exam
You can return to your regular eating habits and activities after your exam. If you were given a contrast agent, it will be naturally eliminated from your body within a few hours of the exam.
Obtaining Your Results
A radiologist will read your scans and provide your physician with a full report. Your physician will contact you with the results within a few days.
Some additional Answers
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How does a CT scan differ from a traditional x-ray?
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CT scans can be up to 100 times more sensitive than conventional x-rays so radiologists can distinguish subtle differences in soft tissues that may not be detected with regular x-rays. CT scans also use computer technology to create much clearer images so doctors can gather more detailed information to help their patients.
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Should I be concerned about the radiation associated with the x-rays being taken during the CT scan?
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Not at all. CT scans require very low doses of radiation that are well within safe limits. You should also keep in mind that the value of the information gathered during a CT scan far outweighs any risk.
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