CT
October 5, 2020 by Jessica Garcia
A computerized tomography (CT) scan combines a series of X-ray images taken from different angles around your body and uses computer processing to create cross-sectional images (slices) of the bones, blood vessels and soft tissues inside your body. CTscan images provide more-detailed information than plain X-rays do.
A CT scan has many uses, but it’s particularly well-suited to quickly examine people who may have internal injuries from car accidents or other types of trauma. A CT scan can be used to visualize nearly all parts of the body and is used to diagnose disease or injury as well as to plan medical, surgical or radiation treatment.
Examination Instructions
Arrival time for appointment
PLEASE ARRIVE 30 MINS PRIOR TO YOUR SCAN TIME. LATE ARRIVALS MAY RESULT IN RESCHEDULING OF YOUR SCAN TO A LATER DATE. Patients that do not show or cancel less than 24 hours prior to their appointment may be charged.
Appointment Instructions
Allow up to 1 – 1 ½ hours for total exam process
To ensure the safety of our patients and staff, only the patient will be allowed into the scan area. Anyone that accompanies the patient will be limited to the waiting area and may be allowed in patient areas at the sole discretion of the staff. Thank you for your understanding.
- Follow hydration instructions below.
- If you are having a CT scan of the Head, Neck, and/or Chest WITHOUT IV contrast, there are no special instructions.
- If you are having a CT Abdomen &/or Pelvis WITHOUT IV contrast, please do NOT eat 2 hours before your scan.
- All other CT scans and combinations WITH IV contrast, please do NOT eat 2 hours before your scan
- CT Scans WITH ORAL CONTRAST
- 3 bottles of 16 oz. water mixed with 12ml OMNI 300.
- Drink a bottle 2 hours prior to exam time, 1 hour prior to exam time, and upon arrival of exam.
- If you are on Metformin – STOP taking it 24 hours BEFORE scan and START taking it again 48hrs AFTER the scan.
Hydration Instructions:
- If patient is on fluid restriction, refer to ordering MD for hydration instructions
- Beginning 3 hours before your scheduled exam time, drink 1 glass of water every hour, for a total of 3 glasses
- For example: A 12:00 appointment would have a person drinking one glass of water at 9:00, 10:00, and 11:00.
- Voiding is allowed; a full bladder is not necessary. Continue to drink water couple hours after the scan to flush your system.
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