East End Radiology - CT Scanning
What
is CT Scanning?
 A
“CT Scanning” or “CAT” scan is used to describe a
test known as computerized axial tomography. A CT scanning provides
cross-sectional imaging of the body. The origin of the word “tomography”
is the Greek word “tomos” meaning “slice”.
A CT scanning produces cross-sectional images or “slices” of
anatomy, like the slices in a loaf of bread. The cross-sectional
images are used for a variety of diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
How
is a CT Scanning Examination Performed?
A
motorized table moves the patient through a circular opening, doughnut
shaped in appearance. As the patient passes through the imaging
system a source of x-rays rotates around the inside of the circular
opening and all data is sent directly to a computer to reconstruct
the individual “snapshots” of the internal organs and
tissues.
Some
examinations require the patient to receive an injection of “contrast
material” to facilitate visualization of vascular structure.
The
examination is completely painless and normally takes between ten
and thirty minutes to complete dependent on the actual exam that
is performed.
How
to Prepare for a CT Scanning
If
you are having a CT scanning of the abdomen or pelvis you will be required
to fast for 4 hours prior to the examination and you will need to
consume barium sulfate. This must be picked up at our office at
least 24-hours prior to your exam time as consumption begins at
bedtime the night before the scheduled examination.
If
your physician ordered your CT scanning examination with contrast and you
haven’t had blood-work performed within the last three months
that illuminates your BUN and Creatinine level it will be necessary
to do so before the examination can be performed. Your BUN and Creatinine
level indicates your kidney and liver function. This is important
to assure that you will be able to properly flush the contrast material
from your system.
If
you wear comfortable clothing that does not contain any metals,
underwrite, snaps or zippers you will be permitted to keep your
clothing on for the examination.
PLEASE
BRING YOUR CT/MRI Films with you if they were not performed
at East End Radiology.
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