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Computed Tomography (CT) is a
computer-enhanced scanning technique for analyzing
x-ray pictures. A computer generates a
two-dimensional, high-resolution image of whatever
part of your body is being scanned. A person must
lie still during the procedure, but experiences no
discomfort. With CT, doctors can detect a wide range
of abnormalities with such precision that the
technique has revolutionized the practice of
medicine and has greatly improved the level of care
provided by your doctor. CT is used not only to
diagnose disease but also to monitor the progress of
treatment.
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How long does a CT Scan take?
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Most CT Scans are done within
15-20 minutes, unless you happen to require a
contrast injection. Contrast injections are
sometimes required to see certain structures with
more clarity. With a contrast CT scan, we may take
pictures before the injection and then repeat the
pictures again after the injection. This adds time
and takes a bit longer than a non-contrast study.
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Why do I need a blood test
before I can have contrast injection?
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Certain medications are more
difficult than others for your kidneys to secrete
(remove) from your body. If you are taking one of
these medications, we need to know how your kidneys
are functioning before we can give you a contrast
injection. This is done to make sure that you are
safe while having your CT Scan.
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CT Scans use radiation … and
therefore should only be used when necessary.
Exposure is kept to a minimum which limits your
risk.
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DentaScan is a special CT Scan taken of your facial
bones and jaw.. An oral surgeon may order this test
to determine your ability to have certain types of
dental implants or other procedures. Also,
denta-scans are used to determine the effects of
osteoporosis on your teeth and jaw bones.
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Can a family member accompany
me into the CT Scan suite? |
No. Because CT Scans use radiation, it is best that
family members wait outside of the suite. This is a
safety precaution.
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What should I wear for my CT
Scan? |
You should wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing
for your CT scan. Also, avoid wearing jewelry. You
will have to remove any metallic objects from your
body before your scan. We provide lockers for your
security in all of our facilities.
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What is the difference
between CT and MRI? |
CT Scans and MRI's are both extremely useful in
diagnosing a variety of abnormalities. They each
have their own advantages and your doctor is very
familiar with what they are. For example, if your
doctor is looking for a torn cartilage in your knee
… an MRI will show this with exquisite detail. If
your doctor is looking for a polyp (small skin
growth) in your sinuses … a CT scan shows this with
optimal clarity. Each and every case is unique.
Also, if you have any metallic materials in your
body that prevent you from having an MRI, a CT scan
may be ordered.
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Why do you need to know if I
have a "shellfish" allergy? |
With some CT scans, our doctor has to give an
injection (also called "contrast"). "Contrast"
enhances certain images of the CT scan and better
enables the radiologist to evaluate the images. The
contrast material used at BAB Radiology is
considered"non-ionic". This type of contrast agent
significantly reduces the occurrence of allergic
reactions. However, the material still contains
small amounts of iodine that could possibly cause a
reaction in a patient with a suspected shellfish
allergy. At BAB Radiology, we maintain one of the
most stringent quality control programs in the
industry. This question is a small part of our
overall effort to protect our patients by being as
informed as possible in all matters regarding your
medical history.
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