Extremity CT Scan 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 an Extremity CT Scan Recommended? Your doctor may recommend an extremity CT Scan to help: Pinpoint the location of an infection or a blood clot Diagnose muscle and bone disorders such as bone tumors or fractures Detect and monitor diseases such as cancer Detect internal injuries and internal bleeding 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. To Prepare for an Extremity CT Scan: Please dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing, with no metallic objects near the area to be scanned. What can you expect during the exam? During the exam, you will be asked to lie on a narrow table. The CT Technologist will position the area to be studied. 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. If there is a concern about circulation in the extremity in question, your scan may require you to have an IV injection of an iodine-based contrast (also known as x-ray dye). This helps the radiologist visualize the vessels in the body. During the injection, you may feel a warm sensation and minor discomfort during the injection, which lasts only a minute. This is a normal part of the exam. If you have known allergies to iodine (x-ray dye), please inform your physician before your exam, as you may need to take some medications beforehand. You may continue to take all of your medication as normal. If you are a diabetic and take Metformin, Gluocophage, Glucovance, or Avadament, you may take your medication the morning of the exam. If an injection of iodine contrast was used, you must discontinue those medications for 48 hours after your scan. Before resuming you medications, you will need to have a Creatinine blood test to be sure that your kidneys are functioning normally prior to resuming your diabetic medication. This test is arranged through your doctor’s office. 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.