Services
Computed Tomography (CT)
This efficient, quick and comfortable study uses computerized processing of x-rays to produce cross-sectional pictures of the body. Our CT scanner has been evaluated and accredited by the American College of Radiology.
How CT imaging works
Computed tomography, called CT or CAT scanning, is an advanced x-ray system with an x-ray tube that moves in a circle around the body. The information collected is processed by a computer to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the area being studied. CT is the preferred method for evaluating many medical conditions. It is used primarily to study the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis and spine.
Preparing for the examination
You may drink clear liquids, and you should continue taking all prescribed medications as usual.
Please follow these instructions:
Head, Neck, Chest, Abdomen or Pelvis: No solid foods for 2 hours before the examination.
Sinus, Orbits, Spine and Joints: No special preparation.
What to expect
Depending on the area of the body being studied, you may be asked to remove glasses, jewelry, dentures, hearing aids or other objects which might interfere with the exam. You will be asked to change into comfortable clothing which we provide for your examination. A locker will be available for your use as well. We encourage you to leave any unnecessary valuables at home.
Most CT examinations of the abdomen and pelvis require an oral contrast agent, to better see the anatomy of the organs. Some examinations may require an intravenous contrast agent. This is given as an injection during the study. The contrast will enhance the visibility of certain organs, tissues or blood vessels.
The examination itself usually takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on what part(s) of the body are being studied. While you are being scanned, you may hear humming or clicking sounds from the CT machine. The table moves to position you for the images.
The quality of your CT study depends very much on your ability to hold still. As in a time exposure photograph, the medical image will blur if you move.
Risks and complications
CT imaging uses a thin beam of x-rays to produce the diagnostic images. We tailor our studies to use as few x-rays (or radiation) as possible. In many cases, no injections are involved. For some examinations, an intravenous injection and/or an oral contrast agent is needed, to better define the part of the body being studied. All contrast materials are FDA approved and considered quite safe; however, some patients are sensitive to them. Reactions can range from an occasional case of sneezing or hives to more serious reactions. These reactions are rare. The physicians and staff at First Hill Diagnostic Imaging are trained to treat reactions if they occur.
You may be at higher risk of reaction if you have:
- Experienced prior reactions to x-ray contrast (“dye”).
- Have severe allergies or asthma, particularly allergies to iodine or iodine-containing foods, such as shellfish or other seafood.
- Sever or incapacitating heart disease.
- Multiple myeloma, sickle cell disease, polycythemia or pheochromocytoma.
- Severe kidney disease, particularly caused by diabetes.
- Women who are breast feeding or who may be pregnant: Please let our staff know!
- Diabetics: If you are a diabetic and are taking prescribed medication please call ahead for instructions.
If you have any of the indications listed above, please let us know before your appointment.