A CT scan (often called a CAT scan), is an examination that gives your physician a completely unobstructed look at organs and structures that cannot be seen clearly on conventional X-rays. A CT scan produces a cross-sectional image that basically shows a slice of the body in full, vibrant detail. The CT scan can show detailed images of all parts of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. A vast assortment of medical uses are possible with just a simple CT scan including, but not limited to, the detection of internal bleeding, infections and abnormal fluids, and for several other internal injuries. The combination of a CT scanner and a high-speed computer produces a precise picture of the body, allowing the physician to see tissue and bone structure in fine detail. Be sure to ask your doctor about CT scans and Affiliated Medical of Dearborn.

Although CT uses X-rays, you do not need to be concerned. All modern methods are used to minimize the amount of radiation during scanning while providing the benefit of a more accurate diagnosis and possible avoidance of surgery or other invasive procedures. It is safe, pain free, and fast.

Usually pregnant women should not be examined with CT. If you are pregnant, or think you might be, be sure to tell your doctor so the best decisions can be made regarding your care.

Additionally, some CT scans call for the use of a contrast agent, so please inform your physician if you have any history of allergy to iodine, shellfish or x-ray dye in general before the day of your test.

If your examination requires the use of a contrast agent (a liquid “dye” injected into the vein) you should not eat anything for 4 hours before the examination. Clear liquids are okay to have before your appointment. You will be notified at the time of scheduling if you need to fast.

If you are scheduled for a CT Scan of the Abdomen, you may be required to drink oral contrast. The drink is a barium-based smoothie to be started 1 hour before your exam time. You will receive it when your appointment is scheduled.

Usual medication may still be taken unless noted by your physician. For your examination, you may be asked to remove any items that may interfere with the examination such as wallets, glasses, dentures, hearing aids, and any jewelry

Depending upon which part of the body is to be scanned, you will either lay on a table feet-first or head-first.

If contrast media will be used, the technologist will start a small IV. You may feel a warm sensation as the contrast is injected; this will last only a minute or two.

The exam itself usually takes around five or ten minutes.

You can resume normal activities unless otherwise advised by your doctor. Following examinations using contrast media, it is best to drink plenty of fluids to help eliminate the contrast from your body.

The radiologist will interpret the results of your exam and forward those to your physician.
Please contact your doctor to discuss the results of your CT examination.