CT Scan Cost and CT Scan Procedures Information

CT Scan Introduction

CT scans (CAT Scan) use special x-ray equipment to produce multiple pictures of the inside of the body. Software joins the pictures together in cross-sectional views for detailed examination. CT scans can be used to view internal organs, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels. These scans provide greater clarity than conventional x-ray exams. Often a special dye, called contrast, may be ingested to further enhance the scan images and the various structural relationships of the areas of interest. so that specific areas inside the body are highlighted. CT scans are often used to defining the structural relationships of the spin, the spinal cord, and its nerves. CT scans are also used in the chest to identify tumors, cysts, or infections that may be suspected on a chest x-ray. CT scans of the abdomen are extremely helpful in defining body organ anatomy, including visualizing the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, aorta, kidneys, uterus, and ovaries. CT scans in this area are used to verify the presence or absence of tumor, infection, abnormal anatomy, or changes of the body from trauma.

CT Scan Patient Preparation

Most facilities recommend that you limit eating and drinking prior to your CT scan. Try to reduce the amount of caffeine or sugar you consumer the day prior to your CT scan. Do not take liquid pills the morning of your exam. Other medications may be taken with water. Bring a list of all your medications with you for review by the facility. Wear loose and comfortable clothing, although depending upon the test some patients may be asked to change into a hospital gown for the examination. Do not take liquid pills the morning of your exam. Other medications may be taken with water. Bring a list of all your medications with you for review by the facility.

What to expect during and after a CAT Scan

The overall preparation and CT scan testing visit will take approximately 2 hours. Wear comfortable cloths. You may be required to change into a gown. Once you arrive at the CT scan facility you may receive a contrast agent (a liquid that enhances imaging of certain organs or blood vessels). Depending upon the type of CT scan the contrast agent may be administered orally, intravenously, or as an enema. The contrast agent will take about 45 minutes to properly distribute throughout your body. At the time of the procedure you will be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that might interfere with the procedure which include dentures, eyeglasses, metal zippers and buttons. Upon entering the testing room you will be asked to lay down on the scanner bed. It is important that you lay still during the scan. If it is painful to lay flat and still on your back make sure you bring some form of pain medication. Make sure you tell the doctor or technician that you plan to take pain medication prior to having the test performed.

Once the procedure is complete, you will be asked to wait until the technologist determines that the images are of high enough quality for the radiologist to read. Your CT scan will be interpreted by a trained radiologist and results are typically sent to the referring physician within 24-48 hours.