CT Scan
"CT" scan, or "CAT" scan, stands for Computerized Tomography, a valuable, painless, diagnostic test that allows radiologists (doctors who specialise in this area) to see inside some areas of the body which cannot be seen using conventional x-rays. This imaging method produces a series of pictures that are then reconstructed by a computer into cross-sectional views. This technology has advanced so much over the past few years that it has greatly altered treatment courses.
Norwest Medical Imaging has one of the most advanced CT scanners available, manufactured by Siemens Medical, the dual source 64-slice Definition Scanner. This state of the art scanner is maintained in top condition, meeting and exceeding all necessary standards. CT scanners use x-rays, and as x-rays can harm a developing fetus, it is important to tell your doctor and our staff if you are, or may be pregnant, before you undergo the test. Siemens medical is leading the way in Radiation Dose reduction, and our scanner uses the latest software (egCareDose4D) to ensure the lowest radiation dose possible.
PREPARATION
Depending on the area to be scanned you may be asked to follow special instructions. The preparation could include fasting before your test. You will be given all the relevant information when making your appointment.
When the abdomen or pelvis is examined you may be given a special drink before the scan, to outline the bowel, making interpretation easier and more accurate. Some people find that these drinks can give rise to loose bowel motions and this should be remembered if you have to travel any distance or if you have difficulty with bowel control. For some CT examinations an injection of x-ray dye into a vein in your arm is necessary to make the picture clearer or to give extra diagnostic information. Some people have an allergy to x-ray dye. If you have had a reaction before, please let us know in advance.
If you are diabetic and take Metformin (also known as Glucophage, Diabex or Diaformin), then you may be required to stop taking the Metformin on the day of your CT and to have recent blood test (kidney) results with you. All other medications should be continued.
We understand that some patients are anxious about having tests performed. If you do have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to ask our staff. It is important that you are on time for your appointment to ensure there is sufficient time available to perform the procedure. Please remember to bring any relevant previous x-ray films and your referral to your appointment.
SCANNING
Our highly trained radiographer will bring you into the CT scan room where you will be asked to lie down on the patient table. The radiographer will position the part of your body you are having scanned in the middle of the large doughnut-shaped scanner – it is not a tunnel. The radiographer leaves the room, but is in full view and communication with you through the observation window at their console. The scanner does not touch you, nor do you feel the x-rays. The scanner does make a slight buzzing sound and the table you are lying on may move slightly to make adjustments for a better view. It is important you lie very still and at some stage, you may be asked to briefly hold your breath as the picture is taken. During the scan, a thin beam of x-rays is focused on a specific part of your body.
Each CT scan is tailored to each patient’s needs. In general, the actual imaging time with our CT lasts less than one minute, the fastest available.
Many exams require x-ray dye injection into a vein in the arm. The entire procedure usually takes less than 10 minutes. When finished, you may then get dressed and leave as instructed by the radiographer. You have no restrictions after having a CT scan and can go about your normal activities. To help eliminate the contrast medium from your body, drink plenty of fluids after the scan (decaffeinated or non-alcoholic beverages).
RESULTS
Most CT scan results will be ready in less than 1 hour, however, some CT scan results can take a lot longer, due to the amount of data that is processed and the complex array of images. Our staff will inform you if it is possible to wait for your results, or if you should return and pick up the films and report at a later time. Norwest Medical Imaging strongly advise that you return to your referring doctor, in order for your doctor to discuss your radiology report with you.
