CT Scan

Computed tomography (CT) scan is a useful diagnostic tool for detecting diseases and injuries. It uses a series of X-rays and a computer to produce a 3D image of soft tissues and bones.

What is a CT scan? #

• Medical professionals use computed tomography, also known as CT scan, to examine structures inside your body.

• A CT scan uses X-rays and computers to produce images of a cross-section of your body.

• It takes pictures that show very thin slices of your bones, muscles, organs and blood vessels so that healthcare providers can see your body in great detail.

What is a CT scan with contrast? #

• Sometimes, your scan uses a contrast agent.

• This contrast agent, sometimes called a dye, improves the images by highlighting certain features.

• Your healthcare provider will either have you drink a special liquid containing the contrast agent or give you an IV injection with the contrast or both depending on the type of CT scan and the reason for the scan.

• The contrast agent is cleared from your body through your urine, first rapidly then more slowly over the next 24 hours.

What happens during the test? #

During the test, you will lie on your back on a table like a bed. If your test requires it, a healthcare provider may inject the contrast dye intravenously. This dye can make you feel flushed or have a metallic taste in your mouth.

When the scan begins:

• The bed slowly moves into the doughnut-shaped scanner. At this point, you will need to stay as still as possible because movement can create blurry images.

• The scanner takes pictures of the area the healthcare provider needs to see. Unlike an MRI scan, a CT scan is silent.

• When the exam is over, the table moves back out of the scanner.

Duration of CT scan #

• Typically, you should plan for an hour for a CT scan. Most of that time is for preparation.

• The scan itself takes between 10 and 30 minutes or less.

• Generally, you can resume your activities after a healthcare provider says it is safe to do so usually after they complete the scan and verify clear images.

What does a CT scan show? #

Your healthcare provider will order a CT scan to help make a diagnosis of your health. The scan enables providers to closely examine bones, organs and other soft tissues, blood vessels and suspicious growths. Things that a CT scan can find include:

• Certain types of cancer and benign (noncancerous) tumors.

• Fractures (broken bones).

• Heart disease.

• Blood clots.

• Bowel disorders (blockages, Crohn’s disease).

• Brain and spinal cord diseases or injuries.

• Internal bleeding.

Risk during pregnancy #

• If you are or might be pregnant, you should tell the CT technician.

• CT scans of the pelvis and abdomen can subject the unborn baby to radiation, but it’s not enough to cause actual harm.

• CT scans in other parts of the body don’t put your baby at any risk.