If your doctor wants a close look at a certain part of your body, whether it’s your brain, spine, chest, abdomen, bones, or anywhere else, they may order a CT (computed tomography) scan.
A CT scan is a type of x-ray that creates two- and three-dimensional images of the body. Unlike traditional x-ray, a CT scanner takes pictures in "slices", which gives our doctors a very close look at certain internal organs. This lets us find tumors, nodules, cysts and other abnormalities an X-ray may not be able to show.
CT Scanning at its Best
During a scan, you lie down on a table that slides into a doughnut-shaped CT machine. This is what takes the pictures. The exam itself may take from seconds to several minutes, but it may take up to 30 minutes to set the test up and position you on the table. While the test is going on, the technologist may ask you to stay still or hold your breath for short periods.
Your doctor will explain how to prepare for your CT scan. For some tests, you may need to have an IV or swallow a "contrast agent" beforehand. This will help the doctors get better images of your body.
Services
- Lung Cancer Screening
- Chest CT
- Head and neck CT
- Virtual Colonoscopy
- CTA (computerized tomographic angiography)
- Abdominal/ Pelvic CT
- Musculoskeletal CT
For more information about your test please visit the RadiologyInfo website.