CT Scan

A CT scan uses X-ray technology, but it creates more detailed images. This type of diagnostic imaging includes multiple X-rays images captured from various angles around your body. Like an MRI scan , a CT creates cross-sectional images — like slices of bread — that give your doctor a clear view of your bones, soft tissues and blood vessels.

Our radiologists can use CT scans to examine any part of your body. These advanced images help diagnose disease or pinpoint injuries. Your doctor can use the information that a CT scan provides to create a personalized medical or surgical plan for you.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend you have a CT scan with contrast material. This special dye blocks X-rays and appears white on images. Using it helps the parts of your body being examined, such as your blood vessels or intestines, stand out in pictures.

Your doctor can use a CT scan to:

• Diagnose bone and muscle disorders
• Detect and monitor diseases and conditions like cancer, heart disease or tumors
• Detect internal injuries and bleeding
• Identify the location of blood clots, infections or tumors
• Monitor the effectiveness of treatments
• Provide imaging-based guidance for biopsies, radiation treatments, and surgeries

A CT scan is painless and usually lasts about 30 minutes. You can have a CT scan done in the hospital or in an outpatient facility.

The CT scanner looks like a large tire standing on its side. Your technologist will position you on a moveable table that slides into the opening of the machine. Then, they will move to another room where you can talk to them through a microphone. At various times, they will ask you to hold your breath to avoid blurring the images.

During the procedure, the machine will make buzzing sounds as the X-ray tube and detectors rotate around you. With every rotation, the scanner captures several images of thin slices of your body.

After the exam is complete, you can return to your normal activities immediately. If you had contrast material, you will receive special instructions. You may need to wait a short time before leaving, and you will need to drink plenty of fluids to flush the contrast material from your body.

One of our specially trained radiologists will evaluate your images and send a report to your doctor. After reviewing the report, your doctor will contact you to discuss your results.