CT Chest

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. Scans will be taken from the shoulders down past the diaphragm. IV contrast will often be used to highlight the blood vessels through the chest.

During the Exam: You may be asked to change into a gown for the exam. Depending on the exam ordered you may be given a contrast agent to help highlight the areas inside your body. This is given in the form of an injection thru an IV. 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 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 will talk with you from the control room where they can see you at all times. It is very important to lie completely still. Most CT examinations take about 20 minutes.