CT Scan
A CT scan (also called a CAT scan) creates detailed cross-sectional pictures of your organs, bones, soft tissue and blood vessels. It is fast, painless and non-invasive.
- Exam time: About 30 minutes
- Contrast: Sometimes, if your doctor orders it
- Preparation: Depends on your exam
What is it?
CT uses X-rays and a computer to take many images from different angles. Different tissues absorb X-rays in different amounts, which lets the radiologist see them clearly.
CT is one of the best tools to find many types of cancer, confirm the size and location of a tumor, and look for internal injuries.
Who is it for?
- Chest, abdomen and pelvis evaluation
- Cancer detection and follow-up
- Injuries and internal bleeding
- Sinus, head and bone problems
Your visit
- Check-inYou may change into a gown. If you need oral contrast, you usually drink it at home before your visit.
- Contrast, if neededIf your exam uses IV contrast, the technologist places a small IV in your arm.
- Your scanYou lie on a narrow table that moves through the scanner. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds.
- DoneMost exams take about 30 minutes in total.
How to prepare
- If your exam uses contrast, do not eat or drink for 4 hours before your appointment.
- If you are allergic to contrast or iodine, tell your doctor. You may need medicine 12 hours before.
- If you are diabetic, have high blood pressure, are over 60 or have one kidney, you need a recent blood test (BUN and creatinine) from the last 30 days.
- Tell us if you are or might be pregnant.
We confirm your instructions when we call you.
Common questions
How long does a CT scan take?
The scan itself takes only a few minutes. Plan for about 30 minutes in total.
What is the oral contrast?
For some exams of the digestive tract, you drink a contrast liquid before your scan. We will tell you how and when to drink it.
Related exams
Ready to book your exam?
Call us. In one call we verify your insurance and book your exam.