Computed Tomography, or better known as CT, uses x-rays to evaluate structures inside the body. A CT scan is able to produce 3-dimensional images, which can accurately display a range of anatomy such as blood vessels, bone, and soft tissues. Here at Park West Imaging, we use a 64-slice CT scanner, which produces high quality images in a matter of seconds.
Some exams require a contrast agent to be administered in order to better visualize certain structures of interest. The contrast agents may be administered orally, injected through IV access, or by enema. Your physician will determine whether or not a contrast agent will be necessary for your exam.
Types of Contrast:
- Iodine
- Barium
- Gastrographin
What to Expect:
- You will receive a confirmation call from our scheduling staff and be given any prep instructions that may be necessary to your exam (such as fasting or contrast material instructions)
- You may be asked to change into a gown to avoid artifacts on the images caused by clothing
- The technologist will position you on the CT table
- If a contrast agent was ordered by your physician, the appropriate access will be obtained by the technologist in order to administer the contrast
- The technologist will leave the room and begin your scan, but you will be able to communicate via an intercom if needed.
- The table will move in and out of a doughnut shaped tube
- You may be given instructions to hold your breath to eliminate breathing motion from the images
- After your exam, you may return to your normal routine unless given other instructions by the technologist/radiologist
For more information about CT, or a specific CT exam, please visit www.radiologyinfo.org