CT
What is a CT Scan?
A CT scan (Computerized Tomography) is an imaging procedure that combines advanced x-ray machines with specially programmed computers to obtain a series of 2D images of specific areas of the body. These images or “slices” provide thin sections which can be viewed in multiple 2D planes or 3D reconstructions, allowing the radiologist to see fine detail of internal anatomy.
Why do a CT scan?
With our multi-detector helical CT scanners the internal anatomy
can be seen in great detail. This provides excellent assessment
of the internal organs in any region of the body. When necessary,
the images obtained can also be reformatted by our radiologists and technologists
in multiple 2D and sometimes 3D reconstructions to help with localization
of abnormalities, or to help with surgical planning or radiation treatment
planning. Additionally, with proper bowel preparation and additional computer
assessment a 3D “fly-through” of the colon provides accurate
anatomic detail for “virtual colonoscopy” to screen for colon
cancer (See separate Virtual Colonoscopy section for more information).
Also 2D and 3D reconstructions of CT images can be used to assess vascular
anatomy in the chest, abdomen, and extremities, and can often replace more
invasive procedures that used to be necessary to “see” the vasculature
in those areas.
How is a CT Scan performed?
Often, to enhance the appearance of various organs in your body,
it is necessary to administer contrast agents by mouth and/or
intravenously. If oral contrast is necessary it is given to you
after your arrival at our office and prior to your scan. It takes
30 minutes to 1 hour for the contrast to fill your stomach and
intestines. After this time interval, your scan can be performed. If it is
determined that intravenous contrast would also optimize your CT exam, this
will be explained to you at the time of your exam and the important benefits
and minimal risks associated with the injection will be discussed with you
by one of our nurses. You will be asked to sign a consent form for IV contrast.
At Borg Imaging, we use non-ionic contrast, which is extremely
safe and has been used in daily routine scanning for many years.
Once the examination begins, you will lie down on the scanning table, which will then move horizontally to position the part of your body to be examined inside a doughnut shaped rotating x-ray tube. The examination table moves through the scanner as images are obtained. You will hear mechanical sounds from the machine and possible clicking sounds from the table movement.
During the scanning, the technologist/nurse can always see and hear you so that you are not alone. We will try to make you as comfortable as possible while you are on the table, as it is very important that you lie still during your exam. Any motion you make may cause the images to distort and blur, requiring rescanning. If pain makes it difficult for you to lie still, you may want to ask your physician for pain medication beforehand.
How do I prepare for a CT Scan?
There is very little preparation for a CT scan. We ask that you have nothing to eat or drink for 2 hours prior to the exam, except for medications. Insulin dependent diabetics may follow their usual dietary regimen, refraining from large or heavy meals one hour prior to the exam. You can view specific exam preparations below.
- Head, Neck, Chest - Nothing to eat or drink 2 hours prior to exam. (Oral medications permitted)
- Abdomen, Pelvis - Nothing to eat or drink 2 hours prior to exam. (Oral medications permitted). Expect to be in the office for 1 ½-2 hours
- Sinus, Lumbar Spine, Cervical Spine - No preparation required
You may wear casual clothing, sweatsuits, or any clothing which does not have zippers, metal buttons or metallic items during the scan. If we feel your clothing may interfere with the quality of the images, you may be asked to change into a patient gown.
A medical history will be obtained by a nurse or technologist prior to the exam. If you have a lengthy medical history, it would be helpful to bring a list of your medications and what types of surgery you’ve had in the past.
Other important information:
Our nurses make an attempt to call each patient scheduled for an appointment one to two days prior to the CT exam. If you miss this call please contact us, or if your exam is scheduled less than 24 hours ahead of time, please call us at (585) 271-0401. This way we can make sure that we have all the necessary information prior to your exam. This will also enable us to better prepare you for your exam.
You can expect to be asked the following question during this phone call:
- Are you diabetic? If so what medications do you take for this? You may be required to hold certain medications and that will be explained to you.
- Are you allergic to any medications or do you have other allergies? If so, what are they? Please bring a list if necessary. If there is an allergic history you may need to be pre-medicated prior to your exam, which will be explained to you.
- Is there any possible chance of pregnancy? Generally, CT scanning, which uses x-rays, should be avoided during pregnancy.
- Have you had any previous similar exams done (other than at Borg Imaging) that we should obtain for comparison? If so, please have this information ready for us when we call.
How will I learn about the results of my scan?
The images from your examination will be interpreted by a Borg Imaging
radiologist who has expertise in CT. The results of your examination will
be communicated promptly by written report to your physician, who will discuss
findings with you.
If you have questions or concerns prior to your examination, please call us at (585) 271-0401.