CT Scans at University Radiology

How CT Scans Work | Preparation | What to Expect | Special Types of CT Scans

At University Radiology, we offer outpatient CT scans to assist in diagnostics and evaluate the effect of treatments on a variety of conditions.

In emergency settings like hospitals, CT scans are used to diagnose strokes, locate fractures and bleeding, detect appendicitis, and more. In outpatient clinics, CT scanners are used to find lung cancer, polyps and masses in the colon, and even kidney stones. They can also help doctors evaluate heart health and predict heart attack risk.

How CT Scans Work

Computed tomography (CT) scans, sometimes referred to as CAT scans, combine X-ray techniques and computer technology to provide highly detailed images of the body. Unlike ordinary X-rays, the X-ray beam is tightly focused, meaning that parts of the body outside of the scanned region get very little radiation exposure.

The CT scanner moves around the body to acquire multiple images in thin “slices” of the concerning area. Depending on the type of CT ordered, the machine may take between 20 and 1,000 separate images. Most studies are completed within about 5-10 minutes.

In some cases, CT scans require contrast material to get a clearer picture or highlight affected blood vessels and organs. You may be given a contrast drink or receive an injection through an IV before your scan.

After the scan is finished, a computer processes the information and sends it to a specially trained radiologist. The radiologist puts together a detailed report on their findings; both the CT images and report are then sent to the referring physician.

CT scans are available to a broad range of patients, but they do have some contraindications. Patients who are pregnant or could be pregnant should discuss with their referring physician and one of our radiologists about whether or not they should have this exam.

CT Scan Prep Instructions

Most CT scans do not require any patient preparation before the day of the exam. However, CT scans of the abdomen or pelvis with contrast require special preparation. Patients will need to drink one bottle of contrast fluid the night before their exam, and another about 45 minutes before the exam.

Additional testing may also be required before any CT with contrast. Patients with certain conditions will need to have their BUN and creatinine levels checked prior to their appointment:

Over 60 years of age
Diabetic
Have chronic kidney disease — including nephrectomy patients

Patients with renal failure undergoing dialysis do not require renal function tests. Patients who have had allergic reactions to CT contrast materials in the past should take a specially prescribed steroid regimen before your exam which will be prescribed by one of our physicians.

What To Expect During Your CT Scan Appointment

On the day of your CT scan, make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment time. Wear comfortable clothes without metal snaps, buttons, or zippers. Women should avoid wearing bras with underwire. You’ll also need to remove all jewelry and metallic accessories, including piercings.

At your appointment, a nurse or technician will review the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have. You may be asked to provide a urine sample for pregnancy testing. You may also be asked to change into a medical gown. If needed, they’ll place an IV in your wrist or arm.

Then, you’ll be taken to a room with the CT scanner. A CT scan machine looks like a large donut with a moving table attached. You’ll lie down on the table and IV contrast will be given if needed. You may experience a warm feeling from the contrast – this is completely normal.

The technologist will go into a separate room to start the procedure. The table will slide into place, and the test will begin. Throughout the scan, the technologist will check in with you and provide instructions through speakers on the machine. You’ll need to stay still and may be asked to hold your breath for short periods of time.

After your exam, you’ll be able to go home. You can return to normal activities like driving, working, and exercising immediately. Make sure to drink plenty of water after a CT scan.

Special Types of CT Scans

3D/Dental Study: 3D/dental studies generate 2D and 3D pictures with precise measurements of the jaw that are used for presurgical planning. Patients must bring a stent if required for measurements.
Lung Cancer Screening CT: A low-dose scan of the lungs to look for nodules in patients at increased risk of cancer. No injection of IV contrast is necessary.
CT Arthrography: Following an injection of contrast into the joint space by the radiologist, CT images are obtained through the symptomatic joint.
CT Angiography with HeartFlow Analysis: Using images obtained from a CT Coronary Angiogram, the HeartFlow Analysis provides a personalized digital 3D model of a patient’s coronary arteries that shows the impact blockages have on blood flow to the heart.
Helical CT for Renal Calculus: CT images are obtained of the abdomen and pelvis from above the kidneys through the urinary bladder to look for stones. No oral or IV contrast is required.
CT Virtual Colonoscopy: A low-dose diagnostic scan of the colon to look for polyps and cancerous lesions. During the scan, a small, flexible tube is placed in the rectum to gently inflate the colon with air or carbon dioxide. Bowel clearing is required to remove stool prior to the exam.
PET/CT Scan: A combination of PET and CT techniques that can show how diseases affect a patient’s anatomy and metabolic activity.
Cardiac Calcium Scoring: A CT scan of the heart that detects the presence of calcified plaque in the coronary arteries, helping to predict the risk of a heart attack.

Schedule a CT Scan Near You

All CT exams at University Radiology require a written prescription from your physician. To schedule a consultation or CT scan appointment at a location near you, call 732.390.0033 or use our online scheduling system.