Do I need a referral for a CT?

In most situations, you will need a referral from a doctor to receive a CT scan. If you are requesting that a CT scan be performed on yourself as screening for coronary artery disease, you will be asked to sign a form giving consent to the procedure.

How should I prepare for the CT?

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for the CT exam. You will be asked to remove any articles of clothing that contain metal - such as belts - that might degrade the CT images. Zippers, hooks and snaps can also cause image degradation. In some cases, you may be asked to wear a patient gown.

You may be asked to leave coins, jewellery etc in a safe place. A locker will be provided.

Is there any reason I should not undergo a CT scan?

• Pregnancy
• If you had a previous severe allergic reaction to CT contrast
• Diabetes, Kidney disease - Need BUN and Creatinine checked beforehand

If you have any other medical conditions, consult with your physician prior to scheduling your CT exam. Our technologist will also pre-screen you prior to the exam.

Please mention any concerns to the scheduler when calling to make your appointment.
 

What is the preparation for the test?

Before the test:

1. fIf you are over 40, you may need to have your Blood Urea (BUN) and Creatinine levels checked prior to the test. We can send a technician to your home the day before the test to draw the blood sample for your convenience (please call 41226788 for details)
2. You need to come for your scan on an empty stomach (with the exception of your regular medications, as below).
3. Take all your regular medications on the morning of the scan appointment.
    

At RXDX:

1. Removing any metal objects, changing to a gown if needed.
2. Drinking oral contrast if needed.
3. In case you are undergoing a cardiac CT scan, an oral medication may need to be administered to slow your heart rate down to get the best results.

What does the procedure feel like?

The technologist will assist you onto the CT examination table and position you for the scan. You will be asked to remain very still during the test. A loose band may be used to keep you in position, since any movement can distort the images. In many instances, it is necessary to administer a contrast medium into a vein to highlight certain body organs. You may feel a sensation of warmth as the contrast enters your veins. From an adjacent room that offers a clear view of you and the procedure, the technologist will conduct and monitor the scan. Once the scan begins, you will feel the table move through the scanner. You will also hear a whirring noise or a high-pitched beep. These sounds are a normal part of the machine operation. In order to obtain the best possible images, the technologist may ask you to hold your breath for a short period of time.

How long does the test take? Is it painful?

The examination is quite painless and normally takes less than a minute on our 64 slice CT scanner (preparation time for the test may take longer)

Can someone be with me while I am being scanned?

No. CT uses X-ray (radiation) and only the person being imaged should be in the CT Scanner room during the exam. In case the person being scanned is a young child, a parent may be in the room as well, but will need to wear a protective lead apron.

What if I am claustrophobic?

Typically people do not feel claustrophobic during the CT procedure because the CT is built with an open configuration.

What happens after I am finished?

Your scan will be reviewed and interpreted by our consultant radiologist. The results will be sent to your physician, who will discuss the results with you. Urgent findings will be called to your doctor immediately.

Our staff will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. We are here for you, so please don't hesitate to ask us.
 

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