CT (computerized tomography)
CT uses special x-ray equipment to obtain many images from different angles and combines them to show a cross-section of body tissues and organs. CT scanning provides more detailed information on head injuries, brain tumors and other brain diseases than regular x-rays, and can also show bone, soft tissue and blood vessels in the same image. CT's are also used to show lung, bone and musculoskeletal disorders, as well as infection, cardiovascular disease and trauma. A newer technology, spiral CT, is particularly effective is imaging blood vessels. Saint Mary's Imaging is proud to have the first 64-slice CT scanner in northern Nevada. This CT is able to evaluate coronary arteries non-invasively.
Preparing for a CT scan
You should wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing for your CT exam. Anything that might interfere with imaging, such as jewelry, eyeglasses, or dentures should be removed. Metal objects such as zippers and snaps can interfere with the images. No special preparation is needed unless you are scheduled for an abdominal exam, which generally requires drinking a contrast agent. Some exams use intravenous contrast to improve soft tissue contrast. You will be asked about any allergies to food or medications, as well as any recent illnesses or medical conditions you may have. Women should always inform their technologist if they are or could be pregnant.
Many contrast agents contain iodine, which very rarely causes reactions in persons who are allergic. The radiologist will also want to know if you have asthma, multiple myeloma, or any disorder of the heart, kidneys or thyroid gland, or if you have diabetes, particularly if you take glucophage. The contrast agent is typically injected through an intravenous line into the patient's arm. Aside from the sting of the injection, the IVP is painless. Some people report a flush of heat or a metallic taste in the mouth, but these common side effects disappear within a minute or two and are no cause for alarm. Nursing mothers should wait 24 hours after contrast injection to resume nursing.
What does the CT scanner look like?
The CT scanner is a large square machine with a hole in the center where the patient lies. The table on which the patient lies can move up or down and slide into and out of the hole in the CT scanner. Within the machine an x-ray tube on a rotating arm moves around the patient's body to produce the images. The patient will hear a series of clicking noises as the exam proceeds, and will be able to hear the technologist speak to him or her from an adjacent room. The patient will be asked to lie very still. Pediatric patients can sometimes have a parent in the room with them, although the parent will be required to wear a lead apron.
Exam interpretation
CT scans usually take less than 30 minutes. When the exam is complete the patient can go home or continue with their other exams. Once the radiologist has analyzed the images, he or she will send a signed report to your physician, who will inform you of the results.
