What is a CT Scan?
Computed tomography (CT) combines x-ray technology and computers to produce cross-sectional images of internal anatomy. The process enables radiologists to obtain an accurate diagnosis through non-invasive imaging. CT is a superior diagnostic tool for the brain, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine, sinus and vascular imaging.

The CT scanner looks like a large donut with a narrow table. The patient lies on the table which moves through the center of the machine. The technologist is in the next room and can observe the patient through a large window. Some scans (abdomen and pelvis) require the patient to drink a dilute contrast liquid prior to the scan. For certain exams, contrast or dye must be injected into a vein during the scan. The entire procedure takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on the part of the body being scanned. After the scan is finished, a board certified radiologist interprets the study and sends a report to the radiologist..

Preparing for CT exam

• In most cases, you may wear your own personal clothing or you may change into a gown.
• Inform the technologist if you are pregnant, have diabetes, or have known kidney problems.
• Patients 65 and over and patients with known kidney disease may undergo specific blood tests prior to the examination.
• It is also important to note any drug reactions or allergies you may have.
  

During the exam…

• The CT tech will position you on the exam table. Try to relax!
• Special breathing instructions may be given if necessary.
• A contrast medium may be ordered. Contrast agents are used to enhance designated areas and may be administered intravenously (a special needle inserted in the arm) or orally. Vista uses non-ionic intravenous contrast media at all of its sites. Non-ionic contrast, in general, has fewer reactions and is better tolerated by patients.
  

Types of CTs:

• A head or brain CT evaluates the various structures of the brain, and is used to look for a mass, stroke, bleed or blood vessel abnormality. It is also used to evaluate the skull.
  
• A neck CT evaluates the soft tissues of the neck and is frequently used to study a lump or mass in the neck or enlarged lymph nodes or glands.
• A CT of the chest is frequently used to further evaluate an abnormality on a plain chest x-ray. It is also used to look for enlarged lymph nodes.
• Abdominal and pelvic CTs evaluate the abdominal and pelvic organs and the gastrointestinal tract. These studies are often ordered to evaluate the cause of pain and sometimes to follow-up on an abnormality seen on another test such as an ultrasound.
• A sinus CT is used to both diagnose sinus disease and to look for a narrowing or obstruction in the sinus drainage pathway.
• A spinal CT is most commonly used to look for a herniated disc or narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis) in patients with neck, arm, back and/or leg pain.