hat is a CT Scan?

CT stands for Computed Tomography. During CT imaging an x-ray source rotates around the patient in a spiral fashion. Information is recorded by a computer which reconstructs the image in various planes or sections, sometimes called "slices". The images produced are cross-sectional - much like slices in a loaf of bread. By taking a series of images, a CT scan can create a multi-dimensional view of the area being examined. CT scans can be done to view the head, body and extremities, to diagnose a wide variety of medical conditions.

Our newest imaging procedure is CTA (CT Angiography) which is the equivalent of an angiogram. It's an easier way to look at vessels in the head and body.

reparation:

For CT scans with contrast, you will need to follow special diet instructions:
· No solid foods or dairy products for two (2) hours prior to exam
· May have clear liquids and any type of juice
In general, contrast may be used for exams of the brain, neck, chest, abdomen and pelvis. Specific prep instructions, based on your medical history, will be given when the appointment is made.
For CT scans of the spine or sinuses and most extremities, there is no diet preparation needed.

Dress comfortably in clothing without metal if possible. It may be necessary to change into a gown for some procedures. We recommend that you leave jewelry at home.

hat to Expect:

You will be taken to a room that contains the CT scanner. Some patients are surprised at the size of the machine, but remember, the machine does not cause any pain.
The technologist will begin by asking you a series of questions about your medical history. Some of these questions may include:

• Are you pregnant?
• Do you have any allergies?
• What medications do you take?
• Do you have any pre-existing conditions such as heart, blood, or kidney disease or diabetes?
• What symptoms have you experienced recently?
• History of any type of surgery?
  
  If you have questions or concerns please do not hesitate to ask.
  You will be asked to lie down on a moveable table. You will be positioned so that the part of your body to be examined lies in the middle of the ring.
  Some procedures use various forms of contrast material to enhance the organs in your body. This may be in the form of an oral agent that you drink, an enema, and /or an IV injection. The contrast material contains iodine, which will help us visualize structures that may not be seen otherwise.
  As the procedure begins, the table will move through the ring. You may be asked to hold your breath. You will hear some noise from the machine as it makes the pictures. At the end of the procedure, you may be asked to wait briefly to allow the images to be reviewed before you leave.
  Most procedures take 30 minutes or less to perform. However if you are required to drink contrast material, an additional 30 to 60 minutes will be needed to allow time for it to travel to the area of interest.

fter Your Exam:

You can get back to your normal diet and activities right away. Any contrast you were given will pass naturally through your body. If you drank contrast material, it may cause a mild laxative effect for a short time. If you received IV contrast and take Metformin (Glucophage or Glucovance), you must be off this medication for at least 48 hours after the exam. Your physician may want to do lab work before you resume this medication. Check with your doctor's office for these instructions.
The radiologist will interpret your study the same day it is done, and provide a written report to your doctor. You will receive the results from your doctor.

ow to Schedule:

To schedule a procedure at our outpatient imaging center, the referring physician staff may contact our facility at
(785) 234-3451. Forms with patient information and prep instructions are available through our office.

ocation:

Our imaging center is located at:
823 Mulvane Street
Suite 1
Topeka, KS 66606
(785) 234-3451