CT (computed tomography), sometimes called a CAT scan, uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body.  Computer processing of the information is then used to show a cross section of body tissues and organs.

CT imaging is particularly useful because it can show several types of tissue with great clarity.  CT is one of the best tools for studying the chest and abdomen. 

Before Making Your Appointment

Let the scheduler know about any of the following:

*           Allergies

*           Asthma

*           Kidney problems

*           Diabetes

*           Pregnancy – known or possible

*           Previous reactions to contrast

Patient Preparation

You must have with you:

*           Previous x-rays if requested by your doctor's office

*           Your appointment form

*           Complete insurance information including your insurance card

For a head CT:

*           Do not eat or drink anything two to three hours before the exam.

For an abdomen, chest or pelvic CT:

*           Do not eat or drink anything two to three hours before the exam.

             You may be asked to drink an oral contrast agent at one to two

             hours before    the exam which helps to visualize the stomach

             and intestines.

For a lumbar and cervical spine CT:

*           You have no restrictions for eating or drinking.

            For all CT exams, continue to take any medication prescribed by

            your physician, unless you have been given other instructions. 

Patient Experience

An imaging procedure typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the type of information requested by your healthcare provider.  After you arrive, you will have a brief discussion with a highly skilled CT technologist and if necessary, an intravenous (IV) will be started in a vein in your arm.  You will begin your exam by lying on the CT scan table.  For the best quality image, you need to be as still as possible during the exam.  Just relax and breathe normally.  The table moves slowly through the ring-shaped CT scanner as the images are taken.  The technologist is always nearby to assist you.

Contrast and Allergic Reactions

Depending upon the type of exam, you may be given a contrast agent through an IV in a vein in your arm.  For your comfort and safety, Suburban Imaging only uses non-ionized contrast, a safe FDA-approved contrast agent.  If you have a known contrast allergy, please notify the technologist, who will confer with the radiologist as to whether you can be given IV contrast at Suburban Imaging.  If it is determined that you can have a study at Suburban Imaging, the radiologist will determine if pre-medication is indicated.  We have pre-medication available.

After Your Exam

Your CT images will be interpreted by a board certified radiologist and the findings will be reported to your healthcare provider.  Your healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the results.