Miller DiPietro Associates/Partnership :: Procedures
:: CT
CT,
or Computerized Tomography (often known as "CAT" scanning), combines advanced
computer technology with rotating x-rays to produce images of cross sections
of the human body. CT can provide detailed cross-sectional details of
the human body that cannot be accomplished with a traditional x-ray.
How to Prepare for Your CT Scan
No preparation is ordinarily needed for a CT scan, though you may be required to fast for several hours before the test.
Because x-rays are involved, you must inform our staff if you are pregnant or believe you may be pregnant before the exam begins.
Occasionally your doctor will use a contrast agent (which is a special x-ray dye) administered either orally or intravenously in order to increase visibility of certain organs. If you have had an adverse reaction to a contrast agent in the past, please inform your physician.
Metal objects like jewelry, clothing fasteners like buckles, or removable dental work may interfere with obtaining the image, so they must be removed during the exam.
Before the exam begins, we will ask you a number of questions and make certain you understand the procedure. You will lie on an examination table which will be moved into the required positions for your particular scan. A staff member will remain in constant contact with you during the exam to aid you with instructions and to make you more comfortable.
While the procedure takes place, you will hear some sounds similar to a fan. This means that your image is being acquired by the device, so please lie as still as possible for the best quality image. You may also be asked to hold your breath for a brief period of time. The scan itself will create no body sensation.
The procedure typically lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.
Further CT Information
To learn more about CT scans, click one of the links below.
MEDLINEplus has a downloadable interactive tutorial on CT (requires Flash).
Radiologyinfo.org offers helpful information on what CT is, some of its common uses, the benefits and risks, and how to prepare for an CT, in their pages about CT Angiography and CT of the Head.
The Mayo Clinic published an excellent overview about Computerized Tomography (CT).
For the technically minded or scientifically curious, HowStuffWorks.com published an interesting article on how CAT Scans work.
General Health Resources
MEDLINEplus, a service of the National Institute of Health, is a treasure trove of medical information from the world's largest library of medical information, the National Library of Medicine. Their online resources include an illustrated medical encyclopedia, pages with information on over 600 health topics, drug information, dictionary of medical terms and health news.
All information on this site is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended a substitute for personalized medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions from your physician. Any external links from MillerDiPietro.com are for your convenience and informational purposes only. These links should not be construed as an endorsement of the contents or sponsors therein, nor should it be construed that the linked sites endorse Miller DiPietro Associates/Partnership.