{"id":839,"date":"2026-08-05T17:45:29","date_gmt":"2026-08-05T17:45:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/clients.armadamedical.com\/urg\/?page_id=839"},"modified":"2026-08-14T20:07:51","modified_gmt":"2026-08-14T20:07:51","slug":"ct-scans","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/clients.armadamedical.com\/urg\/services\/ct-scans\/","title":{"rendered":"CT Scans"},"content":{"rendered":"

CT Scans at University Radiology<\/h1>\n

How CT Scans Work<\/a> | Preparation<\/a> | What to Expect<\/a> | Special Types of CT Scans\u00a0<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

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

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.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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How CT Scans Work<\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

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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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/section>

CT Scan Prep Instructions<\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

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:<\/p>\n