About Your CT Scan
Q. What is a CT scan?
A. CT, which stands for Computed Tomography (sometimes
referred to as a “CAT” scan), is a fast, painless diagnostic
tool doctors can use to see inside the body. Physicians
use the information they get from a CT scan to rule out or
confirm the presence of certain abnormalities or diseases.
CT exams are quick and comfortable. You will be asked to lie
still on a table as it gently moves you through a scanner.
You may be given a contrast agent, either through an
injection, orally or both.
Q. Why is CT important?
A. CT scans allow doctors to see images of your internal
organs and structures in great detail from a variety of angles.
This gives physicians critical information more quickly and, in many cases, more economically than they could
achieve with other tests or invasive techniques.
Q. Is CT like an X-ray?
A. Yes. CT uses X-rays in conjunction with advanced computer technology to generate very accurate and detailed
images of your internal organs and structures. Your technologist will step into a control room to conduct the actual
exam. You may notice a mechanical noise coming from the scanner. This is just the X-ray tube being activated and
rotating around your body.
Q. Will the CT scan hurt?
A. No, CT is a painless, non-invasive test that will not hurt at all. Your exam might require that a contrast agent be
given intravenously that will make your blood vessels and tissues more visible. You will then be asked to lie
perfectly still once the technologist has positioned you appropriately on the table. You may also be asked to hold
your breath for a few seconds during the exam. Any movement might require the exam to be repeated.
Q. How long will my CT exam take?
A. The length of your CT exams depends on which particular
study or studies your doctor has ordered. Most exams
are quick and painless, lasting just a few minutes. You may
be asked to arrive at the facility 30 minutes
prior to your scheduled exam time.
Q. Do I have to do anything special to prepare for
my CT scan?
A. How you prepare for your CT scan depends on what part of
the body is being examined and the protocols used in
your particular facility. In some cases the staff may ask you
to change into a hospital gown for the exam. And you may
be asked not to eat or drink anything before your exam.
Q. What is a contrast agent?
A. A contrast agent is a liquid substance that makes certain tissues stand out more clearly against their surroundings,
enabling the finest details to show up on the X-ray and thus improving diagnostic accuracy. You may be
given the contrast agent intravenously or orally. In all cases the contrast agent will leave your body naturally within a
few hours. If your exam does require a contrast agent, be sure to tell the technologist if you have any allergies,
especially to iodine or shellfish, or a history of kidney disease.
Q. How long will it take to get my results?
A. The CT scans take just a few minutes. The time the doctor takes to review the results varies. However, in most
cases, your doctor will receive results in less than a day, if not sooner.
Q. What parts of the body can a CT scanner evaluate?
A. Almost all of it, since CT scans are used to view both soft and hard tissue.
Q. Are there any people who shouldn’t get
CT scans?
A. If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or have
allergies, you should inform your doctor and CT
technician prior to your exam.
Q. Can my family be present during the exam?
A. Typically, family members and/or friends are not permitted to
stay with you in the CT room.
Q. Will I be alone during the CT exam?
A. During your CT exam, you will be in contact with a
technologist. Even when the technologist is not in the CT
room, you will be able to communicate with him or her
via intercom.
