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How you prepare for a CT Scan depends on which part of your body is being scanned. Please refer to the exact test
being performed for the exact preparation. You’ll need to remove any metal objects such as jewelry, which may
interfere with achieving a diagnostic and high quality image.
For some CT Scans, you may be required to drink a contrast agent one hour before the exam. This oral contrast aids
in differentiating the digestive structures from the other organs in the body. The CT Scan will be scheduled
depending on the point in which you start drinking the contrast. The oral contrast will need to pass through a
significant portion of the bowel before the CT Scan begins, so there will be a delay between the time that you
drink the contrast and the time that the scan is performed. This delay gives the contrast time to move thorough
the bowels. The contrast will pass through the stools and may have a slight laxative effect. You do not need to
fast before your exam, but your stomach should be sufficiently empty enough to consume approximately 24 ounces of
contrast before your CT Scan.
Your scan may also 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. 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.
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