CT Scan: Basic information...
A CT-Scan combines a series of X-ray views taken from different angles to produce cross-sectional images of the bones and soft tissues inside your body.
How can CT scan help me?
CT-Scan images provide much more information than plain X-ray. Your doctor will be able to look at each of the images individually or additional visualization to make 3-D images.
CT-Scan have already allowed doctors to inspect the inside of the body without having to operate or perform unpleasant examinations. CT-Scanning has also proven invaluable in pinpointing tumours. In your case your doctor has decided that CT-Scan in the most appropriate test for your condition.
Procedure: You lie on a narrow table that slides into the hole of big round equipment. Straps and pillow may help you to stay in position. During a CT-Scan of the head, the table may be fitted with a special cradle that holds your
head still.
As the X-Ray tube rotates around your body, the table slowly moves. While table is moving, you may need to hold your breath to avoid blurring of images as advised by Radiographer. You may hear clicking and whirring noises.
A technologist will be nearby in a separate room. You will be able to communicate with the technologist via two way communication.
Preparation: Before scan the Radiographer will explain the procedure and answer any question you may have. The scan is performed when you are on CT table which moves in and out of the machine.
Preparation for CT-Scan depends on which part of your body being scanned.
You may be asked to remove your clothing and wear a hospital gown. You will need to remove any metal objects, e.g. jewellery, that might interfere with image result.
Contrast Material: A contrast material is needed for some CT-Scan to help highlight the areas of your body being examined. Contrast material may enter your body in a variety of ways
Oral: If your oesophagus or stomach is being scanned, you may need to swallow a drink that contains contrast material. This drink may taste unpleasant and cause diarrhoea.
Injection: Contrast agent can be injected into an intravenous line, to help view of your urinary tract, liver or blood vessels. You may experience a feeling of warmth during the injection, ora metallic taste in your mouth.
Rectal: A contrast enema is a type of contrast material that helps visualize your intestines. It can make you feel bloated and little uncomfortable.
Preparing your small child for CT-Scan: If your child is having CT-Scan, the doctor may give your child a sedative to keep him/her calm. Movement blurs the images and may lead to inaccurate results. Consult your doctor for further queries.
What about my report?
One of our specialist radiologists will study the images produced during your scan and provide a report to your doctor. You will be provided with the film and printed report within 24 hours of your test.
Faqs:
Is it a painful test?
No, the radiographer will endeavour to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Will I have an injection?
Sometimes, to gain extra information from the scan, it is necessary to give an injection of contrast agent as discussed earlier.
Is the Contrast harmful?
In some rare instances patient being given a contrast injection may experience an adverse reaction to the material, which although minor and temporary, can take on a more severe form. Your risk having a problem due to I.V. Contrast may increase if you have a history of
Heart Disease
Kidney Disease
Asthma
Diabetes
Thyroid Disorder
Are there any after effects?
There should be no after effects. You may eat and drink as advised by your doctor after the scan.n
Source: The Calcutta Medical Research Institute
