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Procedures - Computed Tomography (CT Scan)
Prohealth Advanced Imaging offers state of the art technology
with helical/spiral scanning for scheduled appointments,
urgent and emergent patients.
Our goal is to offer same or next day service for our referred
patients. Technical staff includes state licensed radiology
technologists who are certified in the advanced practice
of CT Scan by The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
(ARRT). Board certified radiologists with subspecialty expertise
interpret scans and perform radiological consultations.
What Is CT (CT Scan) and How Does
it Work?
CT (computed tomography or CT scan) is an imaging technology,
which uses x-ray beams (radiation) and computers to form
detailed, cross-sectional (sliced or multi-planar) images
of an area of anatomy. CT scans are frequently used to evaluate
abnormalities, which result from blood vessel blockages
and / or damage caused by trauma such as head injuries.
CT may be used to locate infections or tumors and serves
as a valuable tool for use in minimally invasive interventional
radiology procedures previously possible only with surgery.
While the CT unit is in operation, x-ray beams pass through
the body parts depending on the density of the structure
being scanned. This process is recorded by computers and
translated into images in varying shades of gray, which
are displayed on monitors and produced on sheets of film,
which the radiologist reviews.
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some of the procedures where CT Scan is used: |
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Preparing for CT Exams
Contact Prohealth if: |
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You think you have a condition that
might prevent a CT Scan. |
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You are having an abdomen and pelvic CT exam
(special preparations are required). |
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You have questions or concerns of any kind. |
Plan ahead |
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Wear clothing with as few metal fasteners or
snaps as possible. |
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Bring your most recent x-ray, CT or MRI scans,
your health insurance information and any necessary
forms. |
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Check in at least 15 minutes prior your scheduled
appointment time at the radiology reception desk.
A child and / or patient requiring special preparation
or sedation may be asked to arrive earlier. |
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Plan for at least 30 minutes to complete your
CT examination. The length of your scan will depend
on the type of information needed and may require
more or less time. |
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Patients with diabetes and taking any form of
Glucophage or Metformin, HIV positive, greater
than 60 years old will need laboratory work for
creatinine and BUN blood levels prior to the IV
contrast exam. |
After your examination/procedure: |
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Patients may eat normally after most radiology
examinations. It is best to drink extra fluids
to help flush out contrast agents possibly administered
during the procedure. |
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Patients with diabetes, who are currently taking
Gluocophage or Metformin, are strongly advised
to stop taking these medications for 24 to 48
hours following procedures where IV contrast agents
are administered. Patients are advised to increase
their fluid intake to flush the contrast from
their system. Patients taking any form of Glucophage
or Metformin need to contact their physician before
resuming their medication as BUN and creatinine
levels may be abnormal. |
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| What
to Expect During a CT (CT Scan) Exam |
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CT (CT Scan) examinations are not painful,
however, if you have concerns about your ability to
lie still and or hold special positions, please discuss
them with the CT technologist before your exam. |
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Before your exam, a CT technologist will review your
medical / allergy history and answer any questions you
may have. She or he will keep you informed and support
you throughout the study and be there to help you off
the scanning bed when the examination is complete. |
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You may be asked to change into a gown before your
examination to avoid possible interference from snaps
or metal fasteners in clothing. |
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For CT (CT Scan) examination, most patients are helped
to lie flat on a scanning bed. During the exam, the
bed will pass in measured increments through a doughnut
shaped frame (gantry). The gantry contains an x-ray
tube and detectors, which move in a circular path while
the machine is in operation. |
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Some CT (CT Scan) examinations require an intravenous
(IV) contrast injection (during the exam) to enhance
the results of your study. This injection is placed
in a vein in your hand or arm. Patients should inform
the technologist of any contrast reactions/allergies
before the exam. |
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Depending on the information needed, CT scans may
take 15 minutes to an hour or more to complete. |
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3-D Imaging
