CT (COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY)

CT, sometimes called CAT scanning, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain many images from different angles, which are then processed by computer to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs.

CT can assist in several diagnostic procedures, including:

Locating skull fractures and brain damage in patients with head injuries

Detecting a blood clot or bleeding within the brain shortly after a patient exhibits symptoms of a stroke

Determining the extent of bone and soft tissue damage in patients with facial trauma, and planning surgical reconstruction

Detecting and localizing bleeding in a patient with a sudden severe headache who may have a ruptured or leaking aneurysm

Detecting some brain tumors

Planning radiation therapy for cancer of the brain or other tissues

Guiding the passage of a needle used to obtain a tissue sample (biopsy) from the liver or lung. 

CT scanning makes it possible to diagnose certain diseases earlier and more accurately than with other imaging techniques.

Prior to your exam, you should not eat or drink anything for at least 4 hours. You may have water and medications if needed.

If you are over the age of 60, specific lab work may be required prior to your exam. This should be done before  your appointment date. Your Doctor will order these for you to have done.

If you are having a CT Scan of your abdomen and/or pelvis, you may need to pick up Oral Contrast from the Radiology Department the day before your exam, depending on the reason for exam. Your Doctor's office or Centralized Scheduling will let you know if you need to pick up oral contrast from the Radiology Department.  You will get directions from the Radiology Department on when to drink the contrast and any further instructions.