CT Appendix

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. Scans will be taken from above the diaphragm down to the waist. The contrast that you drink will highlight the stomach, and small and large intestines. The IV contrast highlights the blood flow thru the abdomen and pelvis.

During the Exam: You may need to change into a gown. Also, you may be given a contrast agent to help highlight the areas inside your body. This is given in the form of a drink and/or injection. 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 and the technologist can see you at all times. It is very important to lie completely still. Most CT examinations take about 20 minutes.