Your CT Experience

The technologist, who is an expert in the use of this specialized equipment, will assist you onto the CT examination table and position you for the scan. A loose band may be used to keep you in position, since any movement can distort the images. In many instances, it is necessary to administer a contrast medium to highlight certain body organs. Usually it is given orally or injected into a vein. From an adjacent room that offers a clean view of you and the procedure, the technologist will conduct and monitor the scan. Once the scan begins, you will feel the table move through the scanner. You will also hear a whirring noise or a high-pitched beep. These sounds are a normal part of the machine operation. In order to obtain the best possible images, the technologist may ask you to hold your breath for a short period of time. The examination is quite painless and normally takes about 30 minutes.

What happens after I am finished?

A board-certified radiologist will study the images and send a report of the results to your physician. All urgent findings will be communicated immediately. Your doctor will contact you to discuss the results of the CT scan.

Our staff will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. We are here for you, so please don't hesitate to ask!

What are the contraindications for CT?
Patients with the following conditions may or may not be able to undergo CT:

• Pregnancy
• Diabetic, Kidney disease (need BUN and Creatine)
• Taking glucophage (needs doctor's approval to discontinue meds for 48 hours)
• If asthmatic (patient to bring their inhaler)

If you have questions, please call the Center @ (925) 825-7777.