What is CT and how does it work?
A Computed Tomography or CT scan creates very clear two-dimensional images of the brain and other parts of your body that cannot be seen on regular X-rays. The images are produced by projecting small amounts of X-rays through the part of the body being examined and converting the information into images by using a special computer. For some CT scans, the technologist injects a contrast medium or dye to highlight certain tissues for closer examination. This type of scan helps differentiate between healthy and diseased tissue, making it possible to accurately diagnose many diseases in their early stages.
How do you prepare for your CT scan?
- Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your appointment.
- Remove metal and plastic items from the part of your body being examined.
- Let our staff know what medications you are taking.
- If you could be pregnant, are breast feeding, are allergic to contrast medium (dye) or are diabetic, please tell our staff.
- If you must cancel or reschedule, please do so at least 24 hours before your appointment.
CT with IV Contrast
- No food 4 hours prior to appointment.
- You may take your morning medications before the scan with water only.
- Drink ONLY water before the CT scan appointment. Diabetic patients may eat something if they are hypoglycemic.
- Please try and consume 8-10 glasses of water the day before and the day of your appointment.
- Please drink 16 oz of water ONLY 60 minutes prior to the CT scan appointment. You will be asked to drink an additional 8 oz of water 15 minutes prior to the scan.
- It is very important to be well hydrated for your test.
If you are taking the medications Metformin, Glucophage, Avandamet, Fortamet, Glucovance or Metaglip, do NOT take these medications the morning of the CT test and do NOT take for the following 2 days afterwards.
CT Urogram or CT 3-Phase Renal (both tests include IV contrast)
- No food 4 hours prior to the CT appointment time.
- You may take your morning medications before the scan with water only.
- Drink ONLY water before the CT scan appointment.Diabetic patients may eat something if they are hypoglycemic.
- Please try and consume 8-10 glasses of water the day before and day of the scan.
- Please drink 20 oz. of water 20 minutes prior to the scan.
If you are taking the medications Metformin, Glucophage, Avandamet, Fortamet, Glucovance or Metaglip, do NOT these medications the morning of the CT test and do NOT take for the following 2 days afterwards.
Non-Contrast CT or Stone Protocol
No preparation is necessary.
If you are unable to keep your appointment, please notify the imaging center at 573-874-7800.
"creates very clear two-dimensional images of the brain and other parts of your body that cannot be seen on regular X-rays"
What will you experience during your CT scan?
Upon Arrival
- The technologist will interview you to obtain a medical history.
- You may be asked to change into a gown.
- A member of our staff will take you to the CT room, help you onto the table and position you for the scan.
During your CT scan
- You will feel the table move after each scan and may hear a whirring noise or high-pitched beep.
- To get the most precise results, the technologist may ask you to hold your breath for a short time.
- Please lay as still as possible to avoid blurring the images.
- You will be able to communicate with the technologist at all times during your scan.
- The exam usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes.
After your CT scan
- You may leave immediately after your CT scan.
- Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, for the next 24 hours to help flush the contrast medium from your body.
- A radiologist will review your scans and send a report to your urologist. Your urologist will contact you with your results within 7-10 days.
- Urgent findings will be called or faxed to your physician and you will be contacted.