A CT scan uses x-ray technology to take multiple cross-sectional views of the inside of the body. Compared to regular x-rays , a CT scan can take clearer images of organs, bone, soft tissue, blood vessels, and other areas of the body.
Some of the primary uses for CT scans include:
Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have a CT scan, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:
Note: A CT scan is not usually recommended if you are pregnant.
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor before the test.
You will lie (usually on your back) on a movable bed. The bed will slide into the donut-shaped CT scanner. Depending on the type of scan, an IV line may be placed in your hand or arm. A saline solution and contrast material may be injected during the test. The technologist will leave the room. She will give you directions via an intercom. The machine will take a series of pictures of the area of your body that is being studied. Your bed may move slightly between pictures.
You will need to wait for the technician to review your images. In some cases, more images will need to be taken.
About 10-15 minutes
You may feel warm and flushed if contrast material is injected into your vein. Otherwise, you should feel no pain.
The CT images will be sent to a radiologist who will analyze them. Your doctor will receive the results and discuss them with you.
After the test, call your doctor if any of the following occurs:
RESOURCES:
National Library of Medicine
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/
Radiological Society of North America
http://www.radiologyinfo.org
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Association of Radiologists
http://www.car.ca/
Canadian Radiation Protection Association
http://www.crpa-acrp.ca/
References:
Computed tomography (CT)—body. Radiological Society of North America website. Available at: http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=bodyct&bhcp=1. Accessed May 29, 2007.
CT scan: a guide for patients. Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital website. Available at: http://brighamrad.harvard.edu/patients/education/ct/ctguide.html#q2. Accessed May 29, 2007.
Last reviewed November 2009 by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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