Prepare for Your Diagnostic CT
Overview
Wear comfortable clothing for the scan. You may also need to change from your regular clothing into a a set of scrubs. While we do have lockers, we recommend that you leave valuables at home, such as jewelry or a watch, so they don’t get misplaced. You may need to remove anything that contains metal, such as eyeglasses, dentures, or hearing aids, during the test.
Allergies
Notify your physician of any allergies before the exam. If you have any allergy to contrast material, or “dye,” your physician may prescribe medications to reduce the risk of an allergic reaction.
Pregnancy
Be sure to inform your physician if you are pregnant.
Medications
We will ask what medication you take when you schedule your appointment. You will be provided further instructions at that time. If you think you might have an issue with an enclosed space, please speak with your healthcare provider about a prescription for anxiety medication. If you take medication for anxiety, please make sure you have also secured a driver to get you home safely. You will need to have someone drive you home to make sure you arrive safely.
Eating
If you are scheduled for a Diagnostic CT exam, you may be asked to refrain from eating prior to the exam. Check with your physician or call our office for instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you arrive, you will be greeted by our staff who will direct you to complete any necessary paperwork and have you change into a gown, if necessary. One of our friendly technologists will guide you to the examination room and assist you in lying down on a padded, motorized examination table that is attached to a machine with a donut-hole-looking opening.
Once you are positioned and comfortable, the motorized table will slowly move into the donut hole and the images will be taken in sequence. After each image is taken, the table will adjust slightly. You must lie still and may be asked to hold your breath while the images are taken to achieve the best results.
During the scan, the technician will be out of the room and communicate with you through an intercom. If the patient is a child, a parent or adult will be allowed to be in the room, but will be asked to wear a lead apron to prevent unnecessary radiation exposure.
The scan is painless, but some patients experience slight discomfort from staying still for a period of time. A mild sedative is available for patients who need it.
A typical diagnostic CT scan takes 15-30 minutes.
There are no lasting effects from a Diagnostic CT exam. You may move around and drive immediately after your procedure, unless you have taken any anti-anxiety medication.
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