Bluegrass Regional Imaging

CT scanning

What is a CT Scan?

A CT scan, sometimes called a CAT scan, stands for Computerized Axial Tomography. It is a painless diagnostic test that allows radiologists to see inside some areas of the body which cannot be seen using conventional x-rays. Physicians can now see areas of the body they were never able to see before, detecting many conditions in their earlier stages, greatly optimizing patient treatment.

CT scans are used for many diagnostic procedures, including:

• Head Scans - (Conventional x-rays do not show brain structures, however, CT scans do.) Scans of the head may detect or rule out blood clots, tumors, enlarged ventricles and other disorders.
• Body Scans - CT scans can distinguish bone, fat, gas, tissue, fluid, etc. The scan can determine if a growth is solid or fluid-filled, and if an organs shape and size are normal. CT body scans can be especially important in diagnosing back problems, pancreatic disease, lymph nodes, and lung cancer.
• Other imaging capabilities include CT angiography, 3D reconstruction, CT colonography and advanced lung analysis.

What to Expect

After registering you will be asked to go to our CT room. There you will be asked to lie down on the moveable bed and the technologist will position the scanner. Please be aware that the table will move and the CT scanner will make sounds during your scan. It is very important that you relax and do not move. The technologist will watch the scan from another room and give directions on when to breathe via a speaker. The exam will last 10-15 minutes and is completely painless.

What to Bring and Wear

Bring with you:

• Insurance cards
• List of all current medications
• Wear comfortable clothes

Arrive on time

If you must cancel or reschedule, please do so at least 24 hours before your appointment.

After Your Scan

• You may leave immediately.
• Your activity will not be restricted.
• Resume your normal diet, exercise and take all prescribed medications.
• If you have been given an IV or oral contrast, drink plenty of fluids for the rest of the day.
• Your scan will be reviewed by a Board Certified Radiologist with Central Kentucky Radiology. A report will be sent to your doctor.
• Your doctor will contact you about the results of your CT scan.

Steps for a Successful CT Scan

• Depending on the type of scan you are having, you may be asked not to eat or drink anything 4 hours prior to your appointment. You will be instructed by scheduling or your physician prior to your scan.
• In most cases, you may take your usual medications with a small amount of water.
• If there is a possibility that you are pregnant, please tell the technologist before the scan.

Contrast Agents

Oral Contrasts:

For some exams, you will be given an oral contrast to drink. The contrast will need to be in your system for 60 minutes prior to the start of your exam.

IV Contrasts:

For some scans, an injection of a contrast agent is required. This will be administered by a nurse or technologist. The sensation is similar to having blood drawn. We will explain to you the risks of the contrast and ask you to sign a consent form.