CT

The patient will need to lie down on a motorized examination table that slides into a doughnut-shaped CT scanner machine.

In most cases, the patient will lie on their back, facing up. But, sometimes, they may need to lie face down or sideways.

After one x-ray picture, the couch will move slightly, and then the machine will take another image, and so on. The patient needs to lie very still for the best results.

During the scan, everybody except for the patient will leave the room. An intercom will enable two-way communication between the radiographer and the patient.

If the patient is a child, a parent or adult might be allowed to stand or sit nearby, but they will have to wear a lead apron to prevent radiation exposure.

First Body Part  $650 

Contrast  $125

What is this test going to show?

A CT scan is a good way to image and evaluate bones, internal organs, the brain and vascular structures. 

How long will my exam take?

Depending on the type of exam you will receive, the length of the actual procedure will typically be between 10 to 20 minutes. Exam time may vary depending on the nature of your study.

Can I have a CT if I am pregnant?

No. If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant you should NOT have a CT examination or any form of exam that involves x-ray. Pregnant women or those who think they may be pregnant should immediately inform the technologist.

Can I have a CT if I have a surgical implant?

Yes. Since CT uses x-ray to acquire its images, it is safe for a person with a surgical implant to have a scan without complications. Please let your technologist if you have any of the surgical implants on this list as it may impact your images: pacemaker, joint replacement (hip, knee, etc.), rods or plates, stent, or ports

What if I have metal dental fillings or dentures?

You will be asked to remove metal dentures prior to your exam. You will be given a denture cup to place them in during your exam. Metal fillings are safe as there is such a small amount of metal in them, it does not affect the scan. 

What if I have tattoos or permanent make up?

There is no issues with tattoos or permanent makeup for a CT scan. 

Can I have a CT if I have any cosmetic body modifications?

Please let your tech know if you have any body modifications such as sub dermal implants. 

What can I wear to my appointment?

No clothing with metal in it can be worn as it causes  issues with image quality. Preferably comfortable clothing with a cotton base is safest. Please ensure you are wearing socks as you will not be able to wear shoes in the scanning area and we can not allow barefeet unless for a foot scan. If you are wearing clothing with metal to your appointment, you will be asked to change into a provided scrub gown and pants. The following clothing can not be worn: jeans (metal rivets, zipper),  & Zippers.

Can I wear jewelry when I have my CT scan?

No. You can not wear any jewelry when you have a CT Scan as it will impact the quality of the images. Depending on the type of scan you are receiving and where your jewelry is located on your body, your technologist may ask you to remove it. The following jewelry may have to be removed: Necklaces; Rings; Bracelets; Watches; Earrings (lobes); Body Piercings (nipple, naval, surface, dermal or VCH); Facial Piercings ( nose - a plastic plug may be used instead; septum; eyebrow; bridge; lip; tongue; any additional oral piercings); Other ear piercings (conch, faith, trigs, anti-tragus, Felix, industrial, rook, snug)

Can I eat or drink before my exam?

For most exams you can eat or drink before your exam. If you are required to fast, you will be notified before your appointment. 

Is it okay that I took my medication(s) this morning before I came?

Yes. Any type of medication is fine to take the morning of your exam. For patients who are NPO, please do not take medication 2 hours before your exam. If you take a certain kind of diabetic medication, you may be asked to withhold for 48 hours after the exam.

Can I bring my belongings into the CT room with me?
Yes. There will be a place within the scan room for you to set your belongings during your procedure. 

Can I bring someone in the room with me?

No. Because CT uses x-ray to acquire the images, only the person having the exam should be in the room during the imaging. Friends or family can wait in our waiting room while the scan is being performed.

Will I need an injection?

Many CT exams do not require any injections. Depending on your exam, a substance known as a contrast agent may be needed to enhance the ability of the CT to see into your body. All contrast agents are considered safe.

Why do I need the IV Contrast?

The IV contrast enhances all of the vascular structures and organs on the images (i.e. liver, pancreas, kidneys). It will also characterize potential pathology.

Could I have a reaction to the IV Contrast?

Yes, but the chances are minimal. It has the same risk for reaction as any medication does, which is why we use contrast screening forms—to flag possible patients who are at risk for having a reaction to the contrast.

Can I talk during the exam?

You may speak to the technologist in between scans. It is very important that you remain still during the exam. If you have any concerns, the technologist or nurse will be on hand to answer all of your questions.

Can I move while I am in the scanner?

You should not move when you are on the CT table and the images are being acquired. This eliminates blurring in the image caused by breathing or other patient motion. Your technologist will be giving you verbal direction throughout the duration of your scan and may ask you to hold your breathe for a few seconds at a time depending on your type of scan.

Will I feel anything during the scan?

The CT scan is completely painless and comfortable. Depending on the type of scan you may feel some vibrations. In certain cases, an injection of a contrast agent may be used to better visualize the area of interest as specified by your physician. The contrast material used during an MRI scan typically has few or no side effects. The contrast agent may give you a warm or flushing sensation.

Will the exam cause any pain?

Absolutely not. You will not feel any pain during the CT scan.

Why does the machine make so much noise?

Noise is the byproduct of mechanics of CT scanner rotating. Other sounds you may hear are the cooling fans within the scanner. These rotations produce a full image for your scan and keep the machine cool. 

What happens after the scan and when will my results be provided?

The Radiologist will study your images and dictate the findings. Once the images have been read, your physician will receive the report to review with you.

What happens after the scan and when will my results be provided?

The Radiologist will study your images and dictate the findings. Once the images have been read, your physician will receive the report to review with you.

Are there any restrictions after the exam?

After the CT exam is completed and the technologist is sure enough information has been obtained, you may leave and go about your normal routines with no restrictions. If you have received contrast for your exam, you should drink plenty of liquids for the next 24 hours.

Can I have a copy of my images to take home with me?

Yes by request. They will be uploaded onto a USB for you within 24-48 hours of your exam and then be mailed to your home. Please let reception know before you leave the clinic if this is something you would like. The cost is $30.