What is a CT Scan?
CT stands for 'Computed Tomography' and is a special type of x-ray that uses computer technology.  It was developed over 20 years ago.

The Scanner at Open High-Field MRI  and CT of Westchester, is a Toshiba Aestion Multislice Helical CT.  This machine is the latest introduction of CT technology.  Rather than taking one slice at a time, it takes 4 slices.  This reduces scan time and risk to radiation exposure.  Plus, smaller slices can be obtained increasing the ability to identify smaller abnormalities

CT scan pictures are only different from x-rays in the way they show the body in cross section - just like looking at a slice of bread from a loaf.  The CT scanner takes several 'slices' to build up a three-dimensional image of the area scanned.  These images of the body can then be viewed and formatted by the computer to show different planes of the body.  This produces optimal 'visualization' of the internal body structures, enabling the Radiologist to identify any anomalies or monitor the progress of treatment.
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How long will the exam take?
 Most exams take less than 15 minutes, but exams of the abdomen and pelvis require that you drink an oral contrast agent 90 minutes prior to the exam.  Therefore you can expect to be at our facility for approximately 2-3 hours if you are getting a CT scan of your abdomen and/or pelvis.
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What should I wear?
Wear clothing that is comfortable (sweat pants, t-shirts, etc.).  Try not to wear clothing with zippers or snaps if you are getting an exam of the abdomen or pelvis.  Some exams may require that you change into a gown.  Please leave all of your jewelry or valuables at home.  Glasses, dentures, and hearing aids may have to be removed.
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How do I prepare for the exam?
You may take all of your medications prior to the exam including insulin if you are diabetic.  It is helpful if you refrain from eating  solid food  at least 2-4 hours prior to your exam if your abdomen and/or pelvis is being imaged.  You may drink or eat liquid foods, however.  Patients getting a scan of their abdomen and/or pelvis will have to drink an oral contrast agent (Barium) 60-90 minutes prior to their exam.  This is a thick white liquid which coats the intestines.  It is flavored and may make you feel bloated.
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When should I arrive for the exam?
Patients getting a CT of their abdomen and/or pelvis will have to on most occasions drink an oral contrast agent which takes 60-90 minutes to get through their intestines.  Therefore, those patients should arrive 60-90 minutes prior their appointment to start drinking the contrast.  If they chose, however, they may pick up the contrast the day prior and drink the contrast at home 1-2 hours prior to their scheduled appointment.  All other patients may arrive 15 minutes prior to their scheduled appointment to fill out paper work.
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What if I am diabetic?
You should continue your medicines as usual and drink extra juices prior to your exam in case you are not able to eat in a timely fashion.  If you take Glucophage, you may take it the day of your exam, but if you receive IV X-ray dye, you need to discontinue its use for 48 hours after the exam.  You should let your primary physician be aware of this
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What if I am allergic to X-ray dye?
If you have had a reaction to X-ray dye in the past or have certain conditions such as asthma or COPD you may need to be treated with steroids before your exam.  Please consult your primary physician or our staff Radiologist for details.
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What happens during the CT scan?
The CT scan is a fast, painless exam usually less than 15 minutes long.  The patient lies on a table that moves through a small donut shaped gantry.  Some patients will need to receive an IV injection of X-ray dye which helps to better see the inside of the body.  The dye is usually harmless and passes out of the body quickly.  However, if a patient has received X-ray dye in the past and has developed a reaction it is important to inform the Radiologist or Technologist ahead of time.  At Open High-Field MRI Institute, we use only non-iodinated contrast which has a much lower incidence of reactions.
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What happens after the CT scan?
You may resume normal activity.  To help eliminate the contrast in your body, you should drink plenty of non-alcoholic beverages.  Your exam will be read by a Radiologist and the report will be sent to your referring physician within 24 hours.  Immediate readings are available by request.
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