Drew Medical features state-of-the-art multi-slice CT equipment. For the patient, this translates into speed and comfort. A scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis can be performed in a matter of minutes. Previously, the same scan would have lasted approximately an hour. For the medical professional, the advanced design provides higher resolution resulting in clearer images for a more accurate diagnosis. What is a CT Scan? A Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a procedure that results in a cross-sectional picture of a specific body part or organ. A thin x-ray beam moves rapidly around the designated area, generating multiple images from different angles. An electronic detector relays these images to a computer, which then constructs an image on a computer screen. CT scans are completely painless. When contrast media is injected, you may feel slight discomfort from the needle. |
What is Contrast Media? Contrast Media is an iodine solution that is injected into your vein to allow better imaging of blood vessels and organs. What about my medical history? Be sure to tell us if you're pregnant, diabetic, allergic to any foods, drugs or are being treated for any type of infection, cancer or have a history of cancer. We'll also need to know if you've had any contrast media in the past and if you had any side effects at that time. How do I prepare for a CT scan? If contrast media will be used during your scan, you may be asked to fast 3-4 hours beforehand. You may also be asked not to drink anything for 4 hours before the exam. For a body scan, you'll be asked to wear a gown and to remove all jewelry. For a head scan wear loose, comfortable clothing and remove dentures, glasses, hearing aids, earrings, hairpins and any other items that may be detected by the x-ray beam. If you are a diabetic and currently take medication for your diabetes (with the exception of insulin), you will need to discontinue your medication the day of your exam and for 48 hours after the exam. Please do not take any NSAID’s (such as Advil, Motrin, Aleve, Ibuprofen) for 48 hours before or after your exam. Use of these medications can resume only after renal (kidney) function has been re-evaluated and found to be normal (patients will need to see their referring physician to establish this). Contact your referring physician with any questions regarding these guidelines. If you meet any of the following criteria, we MUST have a copy of your recent bloodwork (within 14 days of your scheduled exam) to include BUN & Creatinine:
Please contact your referring physician to obtain a prescription for lab work. Lab work must be completed at a local laboratory no more than 14 days prior to your scheduled exam. What will happen during my CT scan? You'll lie on a table and the part of your body to be scanned will be positioned in the middle of the opening. If contrast media is to be used, some preliminary scans may be made before the injection. It's important that you remain as still as possible so that the scanner can get the best possible pictures. How long will my CT Scan take? Scan times vary between 10 minutes and 45 minutes depending on the type of exam. |
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Physicians: Below are the amazing results in the latest in CT imagery.
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