CT Scan - CT Computed Tomography

At True Imaging, LC, our state-of-the-art, 16-slice GE Light speed scanner with the X-Stream console, allows us to diagnose disease earlier, offering patients and physicians more effective treatments. Plus, patients can expect shorter and more definitive exams.

CT scans, also known as CAT scans, obtain multiple cross-sectional images of the body by using special X-rays and computer enhancement to create an image many times more sensitive than a simple X-ray.

Using a rotating ring containing a fan shaped X-ray beam, the body is X-rayed from many angles. A computer captures the images and creates a detailed two-dimensional cross-section or “slice” of the body. The “slices” can then be processed further to generate 3-D and 4-D images viewable from many perspectives. Risks of CT are similar to those of conventional X-ray. During a CT scan, the patient is briefly exposed to ionizing radiation. But physicians and other scientists believe that CT scans provide enough valuable information to outweigh the associated risks of radiation.

Patients should inform their physicians if:

• They are pregnant or suspect they might be
• They have asthma or allergies
• They have certain medical conditions like diabetes, asthma, heart disease, kidney problems or thyroid conditions.

During a CT scan

A CT scan is generally very quick and painless. To complete a scan, the patient lies flat on a movable table that is guided into the center of the CT scanner. The table will move through the scanner as images are captured of the patient's body. During the procedure, a Technologist watches through an observation window. A two-way intercom may be used for communication. Patients must remain completely still during exam to prevent blurred images, and will occasionally be asked by the Technologist to hold their breath.

CT scan with contrast Although bones show up clearly on X-ray images, some other organs and tissues do not. Contrast agents, also known as contrast media, often are used during medical imaging examinations to highlight specific parts of the body.

Contrast agents are administered either as a drink or may be injected by I.V. or as an enema. After the examination, contrast agents are excreted through the urine or bowel movements. If the exam requested by a physician requires a contrast agent, a Technologist will explain to the patient how it is used before the exam begins.

One of the most commonly used contrast agents is barium sulfate. Barium blocks the passage of X-rays, so barium-filled organs stand out better on X-ray exams. For an examination of the esophagus or stomach, patients are asked to drink a mixture of barium sulfate and water, sometimes with vanilla or fruit-flavoring added. This mixture usually is thick and white. It is a good idea for patients to increase fluid intake after the exam to help remove the contrast from their body. Afterwards, bowel movements may be white for a few days Contrast agents containing iodine are used to image the, urinary tract, blood vessels, spleen, liver, bile duct, and joints. An iodine contrast agent is a  clear liquid  which is usually injected into a vein or artery. It can also be injected directly into a joint. Patients who are allergic to iodine should not receive this type of contrast agent. Patients with diabetes or renal disease must take precautions because some conditions and medications make the use of iodine contrast agents riskier.