CT Scan

CT or CAT scans are non-invasive, pain-free diagnostic tests physicians use to diagnose and treat common injuries, conditions and medical problems. CT scans use x-ray equipment to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of your body. A computer joins the pictures together in cross sectional views of the area being tested.

CT scans differ from conventional x-rays because they provide greater clarity in evaluating your internal organs, bone, blood vessels and soft tissue which include muscles, ligaments and tendons. Radiologists, using CT scans, can more easily diagnose problems such as cancers, cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases, trauma and musculoskeletal problems.

Because of the detailed, cross sectional views CT scans offer, they’re one of the best tools for evaluating your chest and abdomen. They are also invaluable in diagnosing spinal conditions as well as injuries to the hands, feet and other joints and structures. CT scans clearly visualize small bones and surrounding tissue such as muscles and blood vessels.

You will change into a gown prior to your exam. Also all metal objects should be removed prior to a CT scan as they may pose a risk to you and interfere with the exam results. Metal objects include:
  • Jewlery
  • Watches
  • Credit Cards
  • Hearing Aids
  • Hairpins
  • Credit Cards
  • Zippers
  • Pens
  • Pocketknives
  • Eyeglasses
  • Removable dental work
If you are pregnant or there is a possibility you are pregnant, be sure to let your imaging technologist know. Due to risks to the baby, pregnant women are not allowed to obtain a CT scan.

CT images are viewed on a computer or burned onto a disc. Through our electronic imaging network, your CT scan is available immediately to your Coordinated Health physician so a diagnosis can be made quickly. If your physician is outside the Coordinated Health network and does not have access to our electronic imaging network, our musculoskeletal radiologist reads your exam and the images and written report are sent to your physician in approximately one or two business days.

CLICK HERE to get an appointment checklist for a CT Scan