CT Scan

A CT scan also called Computerized Tomography is a detailed type of x-ray that produces images of your internal organs.  Your physician may recommend a CT scan for conditions or symptoms such as diverticulitis, appendicitis, kidney stones, stroke, cancer or tumors, lung or heart disease, or internal bleeding.  It is also commonly used to visualize the spinal canal after a Myelogram or to evaluate small and/or complicated fractures not easily identified with traditional x-rays.

How you prepare for your CT exam depends on the part of the body being scanned.  Many times if you wear loose clothing with elastic and no zippers, it may not even be necessary to change into a gown.  It is a good idea to remove all jewelry prior to the CT examination.  For CT examinations of the gastro-intestinal tract, it may be necessary for you to drink oral contrast which is a liquid that improves the visibility of internal structures within the body.  There may also be intravenous contrast administered by injection also known as “dye.”   Your physician will often order lab work to make sure that you are a candidate for the “dye.”  For most exams there is a need to fast for 3-4 hours before the test.

Immediately before the exam, the CT technologist will explain the exam to you and ask you to lie down on a narrow table that is connected to the CT scanner.  The part(s) of the body that are to be scanned will pass through the middle of a large, doughnut-shaped scanner ring.  This ring holds the x-ray tube, and sends the CT images to the computer.  You may be asked to hold your breath at periodic times during your exam.  It is very important to be as still as possible and follow the instructions during all CT examinations.
Most CT exams are complete in less than 15-20 minutes.  Some tests are even shorter in duration.

Most patients can resume normal diet and activity immediately after their CT examination.  Your physician and the technologist performing your exam can answer any questions that you may have.

Pre-registration Information and Forms

•    Pre-registration Outpatient Consent Form (English)

•    Pre-registration Outpatient Consent Form (Spanish)
     Consentimiento para Servicios Ambulatorios

•    Pre-registration Information Release Consent Form (English)

•    Pre-registration Information Release Consent Form (Spanish)
     Consentimiento para El Uso y Revelacion de Informacion

•    Pregnancy Questionnaire

•    Home Med Reconciliation Form - (complete only if contrast is required)

•    Consent for Contrast Questionnaire - (complete only if contrast is required)