Computed Tomography (CT) FAQ

What is a CT Scan? | How Does A CT Scan Work? | Preparing for your CT Scan |
During the Scan| How long will the exam take? | Afterwards | How will I find the results of my scan?

WHAT IS A CT SCAN?
Computed Tomography ("CT" or "CAT" scan) is a way of looking inside your body using a special camera. The images (or pictures) produced are cross- sectional, like the slices in a loaf of bread. During a CT exam the scanner takes multiple cross-sectional pictures of you. These pictures are created with the help of a computer and are capable of depicting various internal body parts in much greater detail than standard X-ray films. This greatly enhances the doctor's ability to diagnose a medical condition.

HOW DOES A CT SCAN WORK?
The CT scanner contains a large donut-shaped ring that your body slowly passes through on a moveable table. As you pass through the ring, the scanner takes a complete 360- degree picture of you that is sent to its computer. Then the mechanical table moves a small distance - less than half-an-inch - positioning you for the next picture. These pictures can then be reconstructed by the computer to form a complete image of your internal anatomy. (Click here to see and learn about our new CT scanner!)

To make a clearer picture of certain parts of your body, some CT scans require the use of contrast materials, which are substances showing up as pure white on the X-ray. Two types of contrast materials used are barium, which you usually drink, and iodine, which is usually injected by means of an I.V.(intravenous line).

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PREPARING FOR YOUR CT SCAN
There is no general set of instructions for all CT exams. Your physician will give you instructions on how to prepare for your specific exam.

If you are, or suspect you might be, pregnant, let your doctor, nurse or technologist know immediately.

DURING THE SCAN
Before the test begins, the technologist will position you on the movable padded table with the area of your body to be examined in the middle of the scanner ring. Then the technologist will go to an outer room to conduct the scan. The technologist will keep in contact with you through an intercom and will watch you through a glass window.

The table will move a short distance every few seconds through the ring, and you will hear the sound of the motors and gears. This is normal and is actually the sound of the scanner taking your picture. It is important that you lie still because movement will blur the pictures. The total time of the exam is usually one hour or less and you should be able to resume your normal activities once it is finished.

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HOW LONG WILL THE EXAM TAKE?
Depending on the part of the body being scanned, your exam could take from 15 minutes to an hour. Please check with us and we can give you an estimate based on the scan you are having.

AFTERWARDS
Most patients are able to return to normal activities immediately following the scan.

HOW WILL I FIND OUT THE RESULTS OF MY EXAM?
At Consulting Radiologists Corporation, we have a radiologist on site at all times. Your exam will be read and a report will be phoned, faxed or mailed to your physician promptly. He/she will share the results with you.

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