CT Scans
A Pittsburgh Healthcare Team You Can Trust
Understanding Computed Tomography
WHAT IT IS:
Computed tomography (CT or CAT) scans are a kind of imaging technique that uses sophisticated X-ray technology to provide information about tissues inside the body, most notably the brain and lungs, but also certain soft tissues and blood vessels. Doctors use this information to diagnose a variety of conditions which include:
- Cancer
- Infectious Disease
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Musculoskeletal Disorders
- Trauma
- And Others
During the scan, the CT equipment takes images from multiple angles across your body so your doctor can see every possible aspect of the area in question. The computer used in conjunction with the equipment pieces all of the information together to create a comprehensive view, which the radiologist will observe as a whole and in slices to accurately understand what is going on in your body.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
The CT equipment looks like a large donut, and you will lie face-up on a padded table that will move you into the center of this donut-shaped scanner. Throughout the entire procedure, your radiologist will be able to watch you and communicate with you through an observation window. As the CT scanner takes images of you, you will hear noises that may include loud buzzing, humming, or clicking. You must remain absolutely still for the machine to take the clearest photos. The entire exam should only take about 30 minutes, and you will be able to resume your daily activities after it is finished. If you have received a contrast agent, you will need to drink plenty of fluids following the exam to flush the dye out of your system.
HOW TO PREPARE:
You may be asked to abstain from food and drink for a period of time before the exam, but this will vary from case to case. Continue your normal medications unless your doctor or radiologist informs you otherwise. In particular, diabetic patients may be asked to suspend their medications until after they eat to avoid any reactions. Always tell your radiologist before the exam if there is a chance that you are pregnant.
ABOUT CONTRAST AGENTS:
You may be asked to abstain from food and drink for a period of time before the exam, but this will vary from case to case. Continue your normal medications unless your doctor or radiologist informs you otherwise. In particular, diabetic patients may be asked to suspend their medications until after they eat to avoid any reactions. Always tell your radiologist before the exam if there is a chance that you are pregnant.
YOUR RESULTS
After the exam is over, your radiologist will compile, review, and send your results to your primary care physician. If necessary, he or she may contact your doctor directly following the test regarding your results. You will then meet with your doctor to go over the results.
At North Pittsburgh Imaging Specialists, we do our best to provide superior customer care services from start to finish. If you have any questions, we encourage you to schedule a one-on-one consultation with your radiologist either before or after your procedure.
COME IN FOR YOUR CT SCAN
If you’re in Pittsburgh and are in need of a CT scan, then contact us and come into North Pittsburgh Imaging Specialists today and let our caring radiologists give you the best in medical imaging.
