CT Abdomen and Pelvis
Exam Explanation: CT uses special x-ray equipment to obtain image data from different angles around the body. The computer takes the data and creates a visual image of each slice of information. The Radiologist is able to review the slices of information in sequence, which creates a two or three dimensional image of the inside of your body.
Exam Preparation: DO NOT eat or drink anything for two hours prior to the exam. You will be given oral contrast to drink and have an IV placed in your arm for injection of a contrast dye during the exam. Contrast Instructions:
If you are having a CT Pelvis you will drink 2 bottles of contrast prior to the exam time.
You may pick up the contrast anytime prior to the exam and begin drinking the contrast at home the day of your exam. You will follow instructions below:
- Drink 1 bottle of contrast 2 hours prior to the exam time.
- Drink ½ bottle 1 ½ hours prior to the exam time.
- Drink ½ bottle 1 hour prior to the exam time
- Drink ½ bottle 30 minutes prior to the exam.
Drink 1 @ ____________________ Drink ½ @ ____________________
Drink ½ @ ____________________ Drink ½ @ ____________________
BRING REST OF THE CONTRAST WITH YOU TO YOUR APPOINTMENT.
OR
Arrive 2 hours and 15 minutes prior to exam time to drink contrast at JCIC. If you choose this option you do not need to pick up contrast ahead of time.
During the Exam: You may need to change into a gown. Once you are prepared for your exam the technologist, who is specially trained in imaging procedures, will help position you on the table of the CT scanner. You will l lie face up and the table will move into the large donut shaped scanner. While inside the scanner, you will be able to see your outside surrounding. The technologist can see you at all times. It is very important to lie completely still. Most CT examinations take about 20 minutes.