CT or Computed Axial Tomography, formerly known as the CAT scan, is a diagnostic procedure used to obtain, cross-sectional x-rays of the human body. It is particularly effective on bony structures, the abdomen and chest. One of the great advantages CT offers the patient is speed. This sophisticated machine is capable of scanning the entire torso in a single breath hold.

CT yields minutely thin, cross-sectional views of anatomical structure. These views are commonly referred to as slices and enable the radiologist to zero-in on problem areas, seeing detail unavailable with other technology. It is very effective for:

•  Cancer Diagnosis
•  Head Trauma
•  Lung Cancer Screening
•  Abdominal Pain
•  Sinus Problems
•  Stroke diagnosis
•  Aneurysm
•  Kidney Stones

We ask that you have nothing to eat or drink for two hours prior to your study.

If you have prior films pertaining to this study, it is very important to bring them with you or have them sent to the center for comparison. If you need help with this, please call the center with the name and address of the facility where the procedure was performed.

You should wear loose, comfortable clothing like sweats. In most cases you can wear these in the machine. You may, however, need to change into a gown.

If you are having an abdominal scan, you may be asked to drink up to 32 ounces of water upon arriving at the center. This is because water helps to illuminate or enhance the appearance of the internal structures of the abdomen.

The exam generally takes between 5 and 25 minutes depending on how detailed a study is necessary. When you are ready to begin, the technologist will help you into a comfortable position on a sliding table. The CT machine has a rotating tube which captures information in a steady, continuous motion as it rotates around you and you move slowly into the machine. The technologist will then leave the room to begin the exam. However, a speaker system keeps you connected with your technologist throughout the procedure.

Sometimes a contrast agent, commonly used to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels, may be required to obtain the clearest image. The agent is injected through an intravenous line. Contrast agents are only used when necessary.

The CT scan itself is extremely fast. In fact, it will probably take you longer to get in the correct position on the table than it will to conduct the scan. Your technologist will ask you to hold your breath during the scanning usually about 18 seconds.

Following your exam, your CT scan will be reviewed by our team of radiologists. Any previous studies are compared against your new exam and the results are sent directly to your physician.

Our goal is to provide your physician with a report within 24 hours of the examination. Having all your outside films at the time of your exam helps ensure your results within that time frame.

The actual results of your exam will be given to you by your doctor who will compare your test results against his or her own clinical findings to provide you with a clear picture of your overall health.

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