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Dr. Wickstrom and Megan, CT Technologist
Preparing for a CT Scan:
If your doctor has scheduled you for a CT scan at MedWise, the following gives you some information on what to expect from the procedure.
Additional Information about
CT Scans from RadiologyInfo.net
CT for Calcium Scoring
CT - Abdomen
CT - Angiography
CT - Body
CT - Chest
CT - Head
CT - Pediatric
CT - Sinuses
CT - Spine
CT - Colonography |
CT Scan (CAT Scan)
What is
a CT Scan?
CT scans (commonly called CAT
Scans) use an ultra-thin, highly-sensitive x-ray beam to take pictures of a cross-section of the body. A computer examines the CT operation second to second and automatically adjusts it to ensure the lowest possible radiation level.
Interventional procedures such as biopsies and joint injections are performed at MedWise using CT.
What do I need to do to prepare for a CT Scan?
That depends on what area of the body is being tested.
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For your head, arms, legs and feet, there is no preparation.
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For your chest, you will need to fast from food for four (4) hours before.
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For your abdomen or pelvic area, you will have to fast from midnight on, so it is best to schedule the CT for the morning. If the study requires you to take barium before as a contrast agent, you will need to follow those directions prior to your examination.
What
will the CT Scan be like?
Once you’ve arrived at MedWise, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove all jewelry. You can request a pillow or blanket in order to make yourself more comfortable during the test.
During the test, you will be asked to stay as still as possible, as excessive movement can blur the image. Your technologist will be observing you the entire time and can speak with you via an intercom inside the machine.
Depending on the test, you may be injected with a contrast agent. Contrast agents are simply dyes that allow the radiologist to see certain areas or organs more clearly. The injection may initially sting and could cause a hot or cold sensation, a metallic taste, a soreness where the needle was injected and, in a very few cases, hives.
What
happens after CT Scan?
There is no recovery period, and you can immediately resume normal activities and your usual diet, unless you have a special procedure such as a biopsy in conjunction with the CT exam. If you have a special procedure, you will be given instructions to be followed after you leave MedWise.
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