Cat Scan Department

What is CT?
A CT Scan (also called CT, computerized tomography, or CAT Scan) is an x-ray technique that produces images, with the aid of a highly sophisticated computer, of your internal organs that are more detailed than those produced by conventional x-ray exams.

When is a CT Scan recommended?
Your doctor may recommend a CT Scan to help:

• Diagnose muscle and bone disorders, such as bone tumors and fractures
• Pinpoint the location of a tumor, infection, or blood clot
• Detect and monitor diseases such as cancer or heart disease
• Detect internal injuries and internal bleeding

Quick Links: Patient Preparation for CT Exam

CT Services: Abdominal CT Scan Chest CT Scan CT Angiography (CTA) CT Scan Guided Biopsies Extremity CT Scan Head or Brain CT Scan

CT Locations & Hours: Sparrow Hospital CT Services: 24 hours, 7 days week Outpatient Procedures: 7a-11p, M-F St. Lawrence Campus CT Services: 24 hours, 7 days week Outpatient Procedures: 7a-11p, M-F Ramblewood Imaging Outpatient Procedures: 8a-5p, M-F Clinton Memorial Hospital CT Services: 24 hours, 7 days week

CT Scans can be performed even if you have a pacemaker or an internal defibrillator. If you are pregnant, or suspect you may be, your doctor may suggest postponing the CT Scan or choosing an alternative exam that does not involve radiation. Please notify the technologist if you are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant.

What can you expect during a CT Scan?
The actual length of the CT Scan may be just a few minutes, or may take up to 45 minutes, depending on the type of scan being performed. Remember that if you are scheduled for a test that requires oral contrast, you will be asked to arrive at the x-ray department 2 hours before your exam so that the contrast may be consumed. Please keep in mind that delays may occur due to unforeseen emergencies, especially in the hospital setting.

During the exam, you will be asked to lie on a narrow table. The CT Technologist will position the area to be studied. You will occasionally hear some simple breathing instructions. Please try to remain very still. The less movement that occurs, the clearer the images. The CT Scanner is shaped like a large doughnut, with the table centered in the “doughnut hole” in the middle. The area being imaged will be placed in the center of the doughnut, which usually results in either the head or the feet being free of the CT machine proper. The opening is large enough that most people will not feel constricted. However, if you have claustrophobia, or are concerned about becoming claustrophobic, please discuss your concerns with your physician and the CT Technologist prior to your exam.

During the scanning process, the CT Technologist will be in an adjacent, shielded room, which can be viewed through a large window. The CT Technologist will perform the exam and view images on a computer screen as the exam progresses. Communication occurs via a two-way intercom.

Results
The results of your CT Scan will be available after a radiologist has had time to study and interpret your exam. This generally takes 4-5 business days to complete.

Risks of CT
CT Scan risks are similar to those of conventional x-ray. During the CT Scan, you are exposed to radiation. However, doctors and scientists believe that CT Scans provide valuable information that outweighs the associated risks. If you are concerned about the radiation exposures, contact your physician.