C.T. Scan & Cardiac C.T.
It is a medical imaging procedure that utilizes X-Rays to produce thin cross sectional images of the body. This cuts down on the time taken to do a procedure with a typical acquisition of a body part taking less than 10 seconds. C.T. Scans are used to takes image of multiple parts of the body and including internal organs including the heart
How the procedure is performed
The radiographer will take you into the CT suite where you will lie on a bed. The bed will slide through a hole in the machine called a gantry and images of your body will be taken. When we are done you will be taken out of the gantry and the cannula will be removed. The nurse will make sure you are fine and then you will be free to go.
How long will it take?
A CT scan can take between 10 to 20 minutes to complete.
How safe is a CT Scan
A CT scan is one of the safest non-invasive modalities for imaging the body. During the CT scan you may be given an injection of iodine-based contrast medium. This contrast material allows the radiologist to better assess the body. The main contraindication for a CT scans.
Preparation before the C.T. Scan
Some examinations like CT Scans of the abdomen require that you take some medication or oral contrast on the day before the examination. You will be given the oral contrast on the day you make the appointment. On the day of the exam you must not eat anything in the morning. Your last meal will be supper the previous day.
When Will I Get My Results?
The radiologist will examine the images and will write a signed report to your referring doctor who will then discuss the results with you.