A CT scanner is a specialized x-ray machine combined with a computer that uses very sensitive detectors and a thin x-ray beam to produce a cross -sectional slice or picture of the body part being imaged.
Here at Central Virginia Imaging our CT scanner is ACR accredited, an honor we are quite proud to have achieved. There are strict guidelines and regulations that we are required to maintain this accreditation and we encourage you to visit the ACR’s website to appreciate our high standards of care. http://www.acr.org/accreditation/accreditedFacilitySearch.aspx
How long will it take?
A scan takes approximately ten to twenty minutes to complete.
What Does a CT show?
CT demonstrates exceptional anatomic detail and subtle tissue differences in the body and can distinguish many things not always visible on the conventional X-ray. There are many uses for CT scans. The following are some more common uses:
- Diagnose problems such as cancers, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, and musculoskeletal disorders
- Diagnose trauma or injury
- Diagnose vascular disease
- Aid in planning of surgeries
Preparing for your CT
- In many cases there is no preparation for CT scans however if you are scheduled for a CT abdomen and/or CT pelvis, we ask that you have NO SOLIDS after midnight the night before your scan. Drinking of fluids is encouraged. Your referring physician should relay the correct preparation for your scheduled CT examination; however, don’t hesitate to contact our office if you have any further questions or concerns.
- If you are scheduled for a CT Colonography, please follow this Preparation
- Some CTs of the Abdomen and/or Pelvis require oral contrast which coats the intestinal tract. We have made this contrast available in most doctors’ offices in an effort to provide you the opportunity to drink in the comfort of your own home. However, those who are unable to drink the contrast prior to their appointment will be asked to arrive one hour and twenty minutes before their scan time to drink here at our facility. Contrast is available for patient pick-up at Central Virginia Imaging Monday-Friday during normal business hours.
- Expect to receive a telephone call two days prior to your scheduled appointment date to review some basic information.
- Please tell your referring physician and the CT technologist if you are or think you may be pregnant.
What to expect?
- Many, but not all, patients who have a CT scan will need x-ray dye/IV contrast injected through a small catheter placed in the vein. This IV contrast helps to highlight certain structures in your body.
- If you have a known allergy to x-ray dye please let your Doctor know as soon as possible.
- You will be asked to rest flat on a padded table, which slides in the donut-shaped scanner where the images are acquired.
- The technologist will able to see and communicate with you throughout the procedure.
After the Procedure
- After your study is completed, your images are stored in a computer system called PACS (Picture Archiving & Communications System). Most referring doctors can access these images online and review them with you in their office.
- Our Board Certified Radiologist will review your images and have the results faxed to your referring physician promptly.
- You may obtain a copy of your results from your referring physician. Only the patient can physically acquire them from our Imaging Center after showing proof of identity This is in effort to protect not only your privacy but to reduce medical identity theft.
