Computed Tomography (CT)

Computed tomography (CT) is a diagnostic imaging test used to create detailed images of internal organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels. The cross-sectional images generated during a CT scan can be reformatted in multiple planes, and can even generate three-dimensional images which can be viewed on a computer monitor, printed on film or transferred to electronic media. CT scanning is often the best method for detecting many different cancers since the images allow your doctor to confirm the presence of a tumor and determine its size and location. CT is fast, painless, noninvasive and accurate. In emergency cases, it can reveal internal injuries and bleeding quickly enough to help save lives.

What are some common uses of CT?

There are various types of CT exams available, covering various sections of the body: Abdominal, Cranial, Lumbosacral Spine, Orbit, and Thoracic. These scans focus on body parts (arms, chest, legs, pelvis, and stomach), or internal organs (adrenal glands, bladder, heart, intestines, kidneys, liver, lungs, and pancreas). In addition, it can also be used to study blood vessels (which are harder to detect due to their small size and ease of “blending” in with their immediate surroundings), bones, the spinal cord, and other joints and extremities. The procedure’s main function is used to diagnose and inspect various infirmities in the body such as disease, infection, masses, and tumors (such as colon cancer or heart disease) without having to cut into the patient’s body. It also helps medical professionals during biopsy procedures, and is used as a guide for interventional diagnoses.

How should I prepare for this procedure?

On the day of your exam, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid clothing with zippers and snaps as metal objects can affect the image. Depending on the part of the body that is being scanned, you may also be asked to remove hair pins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids and any dentures. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for one or more hours before the exam. Women should inform their doctor or x-ray tech if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.

What can I expect during this procedure?

During a CT scan, the technologist positions you on the CT table and pillows are used to help keep you still and in the proper position during the scan. The table will move slowly into the CT scanner opening. Depending on the area of the body being examined, the increments of movement may be very small and almost undetectable, or large enough to feel the motion. To enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels, use of different contrast materials may be required. Depending on the type of examination, contrast material may be injected through an IV, swallowed or administered by enema.

Before administering the contrast material, you should inform the radiologist or technologist of the following:

• Any allergies, especially to medications or iodine
• Whether you have a history of diabetes, asthma, kidney problems, heart or thyroid conditions. These conditions may indicate a higher risk of reaction to the contrast material or potential problems eliminating the material from the patient’s system after the exam.

What will I experience during the procedure?

A CT Scan is painless. Depending on the type of scan you are having, your preparation may differ. To enhance the visibility of body tissue or blood vessels, use of different contrast materials may be administered by:

• Mouth: You may be asked to swallow water or contrast material, a liquid that allows the radiologist to better see the stomach, small bowel and colon. Some patients find the taste of the contrast material slightly unpleasant, but tolerable.
• IV injection: To accentuate the appearance between normal and abnormal tissue in organs like the liver and spleen and to better define the blood vessels and kidneys, a contrast material is commonly injected into a vein.
• You might feel:
• Flushed or have a metallic taste in your mouth. These are common reactions which disappear in a minute or two.
• A mild itching sensation. If the itching persists or is accompanied by hives, it can be easily treated with medication.
• In very rare cases, you may experience shortness of breath or swelling in the throat or other parts of the body. These can be indications of a more serious reaction to the contrast material. Your technologist should be notified immediately.