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Computed Tomography (CT) Scans
CT stands for computed tomography. CT uses x-rays and a computer to make a picture of sections of the body. The picture is called a scan. A CT scan shows the body’s organs in greater detail and more clearly than regular x-rays.
What is a CTA scan?
CTA stands for computed tomography angiography. A CTA scan gives a view of specific blood vessels (arteries and veins). CTA is often included in addition to a CT scan.
Why are CT and CTA used?
CT and CTA help find problems in your body and how far disease has spread. They also help identify the effects of treatment and how your body is responding to treatment. CT and CTA scanning can study many parts of the body, such as the brain, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, spine and lower extremities.
How to prepare for the test?
This section gives you some general guidelines to prepare for your test. Your doctor, nurse, or imaging center will give you more detailed instructions.
Medicines: Ask your doctor or imaging center for instructions. If you have diabetes, ask your doctor about taking your routine medicine. Your imaging center will give you instructions. If your doctor or imaging center tells you to take your routine medicine, take it only with a small sip of water. You may be asked to take a liquid preparation and a bowel preparation before you come to the testing center.
What to bring:
- A prescription slip or requisition from your doctor Insurance forms, referrals or both
- A list of your medicines, including any special instructions, over-the-counter drugs and herbal drugs
- A list of allergies to food, latex or medicine
Precautions: Tell the doctor or technologist if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a contrast enhancing agent, iodine or shellfish or if you have asthma. CT and CTA scanning expose you to some radiation. If you are pregnant or think you might be, or if you are breast-feeding, tell the doctor and technologist before your test.
What happens during the test?
You will put on a hospital gown and remove all metal objects that might interfere with the scan. If a contrast enhancing agent is used, you’ll receive it by either drinking it or by an intravenous (IV) line in your arm or hand
The IV enhancing agent may give you a brief sensation that moves up your arm. You also may get a warm, flushed feeling; a taste of salt or metal in your mouth; or nausea for a brief time. This is normal, but you should tell the technologist about these or other reactions. The technologist will help you onto the table and then will go into a room behind a large window. The staff will watch you carefully through the window. You’ll be able to talk to the staff through an intercom and you may be asked to hold your breath for a short time during the CT scan. CT and CTA scanning usually takes less than 30 minutes. Some tests are shorter or longer, based on the number of areas tested and the equipment used. If an enhancing agent is used, the test may take longer.
What happens after the test?
When your scan is over, the technologist will help you off the table. If you had a change in diet before the scan, you may resume your normal diet. If you received an enhancing agent, you should drink plenty of fluids to flush it out of your body.
How do I get my test results?
A doctor who is a radiologist will study your scans and report the results to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results with you. Talk with your doctor or imaging center about how to get your test results.
How will I be billed?
You will receive two bills, one from Pinehurst Surgical and one from the Radiologist that reads your test. Please be prepared to pay your co-pay, deductible, or expected out-of-pocket at time of service.