CT Scan - Pre and Post Instructions

What is a CT Scan?
A CT Scan is also known as Computerized Axial Tomography. A CT Scan takes a picture of a specific part of your body, such as the head, chest, abdomen or spine. During the scan, a thin beam of x-ray is focused on this part. You will lie on a table and the part of your body that is to be scanned will be positioned in the middle of the large, doughnut-shaped scanner. The table will move a short distance to position you for the next scan. You will hear a clicking noise as the scanner moves around you to take your images. These images may detect conditions that do not show up on conventional x-ray. The results help determine the best course of treatment for you. This procedure may take up to 30 minutes.

What is the preparation?
Your physician's office or hospital personnel will give you complete instructions prior to your examination. The preparations vary according to the area being imaged or the injection of contrast medium.

Any women who thinks she may be pregnant should inform her doctor before scheduling the procedure.

If a contrast medium is to be used, prior blood work may be required. The technologist will question you about your medical history and allergies and will ask you to sign an information/ consent form prior to using a contrast medium.

You may be asked to change into an x-ray gown for the procedure, depending upon the body part to be scanned. Jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses and dentures will be removed prior to a head scan.

What about after the procedure?
In the event that you were given barium to drink as part of your preparation, after the procedure you need to drink 6-8 glass of water during that day. You may resume normal activities.

What about the results?
Once the examination is completed, the x-rays will be studied by the radiologist and compared to any previous x-rays of the same area you may have had taken previously. A written report of the radiologist interpretation will be forwarded to your physician either by fax or mail. Please allow a few days before contacting your physician for the results.

Questions?
If you have any questions before or after your appointment, please call the Radiology Department at 802-257-8820.

For more information on the Department of Radiology at BMH click here.